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: Classic songs about love, encouragement, and youth (131–140)
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.
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.
crescent moonGadoro
A hip-hop ballad by GADORO that portrays his clumsy love life in strikingly real words.
While struggling through poverty, he expresses gratitude and love for the partner who supports him, along with an unshakable sense of weakness—lyrics that are sure to pierce deeply into listeners’ hearts.
Vivid details, like the crescent-shaped marks left by his nail-biting habit, seem to lay bare his inner turmoil.
The track appears on his acclaimed 2019 March release, SUIGARA.
On nights when you face a reality that won’t go your way, listening while thinking of someone dear will no doubt leave you moved by its bittersweet yet warm world.
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.
Midnight ExpresswayFurawā Kanpanī
A youthful rock anthem brimming with momentum and emotion, painting a grand portrait of life.
Powerfully delivered by The Flower Companyz, this song radiates a warmth that lights a ray of hope in an uncertain life.
Released in September 2004 as a track on the classic album “Setagaya Yoake Mae” (Before Dawn in Setagaya), it has continued to resonate closely with many hearts.
When you stand at a crossroads, when you feel anxious about the future, and for all who are doing their best to live in the present, this is an encouraging song that will gently push you forward.
Goodbyeofukōsu
This is a pure love ballad that poignantly portrays the end of a romance, released as an Off Course single in December 1979.
With Kazumasa Oda’s warm yet translucent vocals and a heart-stirring melody, the song richly conveys the sorrow of parting.
Its gentle, relatable lyrics—about a first heartbreak or a bittersweet farewell to someone dear—have made it a beloved classic that quietly resonates with listeners.
It was also featured as an insert song in the first season of the TBS drama “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3B” and later included on the album “SELECTION 1978-81.” As a song that stands by you through the poignant end of love that comes with winter’s chill, it’s especially recommended for those facing a farewell with someone important.