Recommended ballads for men: classic songs about love, encouragement, and youth.
When you’ve had your heart broken, reached a turning point in life, or are struggling with something…
In times like these, many people want to listen to a touching ballad that stays close to the heart, or belt one out at karaoke, don’t they?
But even when we say “ballad,” there are all kinds: songs with lyrics about love, ones that feel like an anthem cheering on your life, and others that evoke youthful days.
The musical styles vary too—pieces featuring the beautiful tones of piano and strings, rock ballads with a full band sound, and acoustic numbers with just a guitar and voice.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of ballads—picked from among the many out there—that we especially recommend for men!
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Recommended ballads for men: Masterpieces about love, encouragement, and youth (121–130)
Grandfather’s ClockHirai Ken
Originally an American popular song that is cherished in Japan as a children’s song, “Ookina Furudokei” (Grandfather’s Clock) was arranged and released by singer-songwriter Ken Hirai.
It was released in 2002.
A song familiar to everyone is expressed with Hirai’s signature warm vocals.
WhyNovelbright
Novelbright is a rock band behind numerous hit songs.
In 2022, they made headlines by holding their first-ever concert at the Nippon Budokan.
The song “Doushite” (“Why”) was performed at that Budokan show and later released in response to fervent requests from fans.
It’s a classic love ballad about heartbreak and regret.
Incidentally, the music video features a star-studded cast of actors, so be sure to check it out as well.
Kanata HarukaRADWIMPS
RADWIMPS is a four-piece rock band that has won popularity for its boundless musical sensibility, spanning from distinctive rock sounds to film scores.
Their 12th digital-only single, “Kanata Haluka,” written as the theme song for the animated film Suzume, draws you into a dreamlike ensemble featuring piano and strings.
The lyrics tell a story of encountering someone who feels truly special, something many people—not just men—will likely relate to through their own experiences.
It’s also a great pick for karaoke, but the melody is intricate, so make sure to learn it well before giving it a try.
tagYuuri
Yuuri has created numerous heartrending breakup songs.
When you think of him, tracks like “Kakurenbo” and “Dry Flower” probably come to mind first.
In fact, there’s another song that portrays the same story as those two—“Onigokko.” This song tells the sorrow of a breakup from a male perspective.
By the way, the chronological order of the story is “Kakurenbo,” “Onigokko,” then “Dry Flower.” It’s also said that “Kakurenbo” has a counterpart piece.
Be sure to listen to all three as a trilogy.
Recommended ballads for men: Classic songs about love, encouragement, and youth (131–140)
dearestFukuyama Masaharu
Masaharu Fukuyama’s “Saiai” is a ballad that quietly sublimates the pain of heartbreak.
Set to a bittersweet yet beautiful melody, its carefully chosen lyrics resonate poignantly.
It’s also ideal for karaoke—the slow tempo makes it easy to pour your feelings into the song, leaving a lasting impression.
With a melody and lyrics that sink deeper with every listen, it’s perfect not only for men who have experienced heartbreak, but also for anyone who wants to renew their feelings for someone they love.
Comparing it with Kou Shibasaki’s cover version is also recommended—this is a classic ballad that adds color to any scene.
future visionMarushii
A song that depicts envisioning a happy future, born from calm, irreplaceable days spent with a loved one.
Crafted by Marcy, a popular rock band known for their down-to-earth lyrics, it was released for digital streaming in April 2022 and later included on the acclaimed album “Memory.” The track shimmers with luminous sound and a comfortable beat, gently intertwined with Yukyo Yoshida’s warm vocals.
Its lyrics, describing two people who have spent time together deepening their understanding of each other and building a happy future, kindle a quiet warmth in the listener’s heart.
It’s a ballad that envelops you in a sense of bliss.
Be happy, okay?matsumura kanau
Kana’u Matsumura, who has been gaining attention after posting a singing video on TikTok, is in the spotlight.
The heartbreak song he’s known for—one that listeners say moves them to tears—is “You’re Going to Be Happy.” The first half of the song reflects on memories with a former lover from a male perspective, while the latter half expresses wishes for the ex’s future happiness.
It’s a bittersweet and sorrowful piece, yet its appeal lies in the hopeful feeling woven into it.
Although it’s sung mostly in a high tone, the slow tempo should make it easy to sing.