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 (21–30)
the red threadKobukuro
Just hearing the phrase “red thread” evokes a sense of drama, doesn’t it? There’s a legend—originating in China and not so familiar in the West—that people destined to meet someday are connected by a red thread.
This Kobukuro song is based on that very legend, and among their many ballads, it’s one I especially recommend.
The theme—two people who meet in childhood, part ways, and reunite—also brings to mind the fate bound by the red thread.
It was also used in a Nippon Life commercial.
funny storyTani Yuuki
This song, with lyrics that blend gentleness and poignancy, is based on Tani Yuuki’s real-life experiences and expresses gratitude toward his mother.
It conveys a strong desire to overcome past mistakes and regrets and to protect the smile of someone precious.
It was released for early streaming on April 19, 2024, and is included on his first EP, HOMETOWN, released on May 8.
The profound message carried by its relaxed tempo is sure to resonate with those standing at life’s crossroads or those who struggle to express their feelings to someone important.
meteoryoshida takurou
Amid the heyday of New Music, this is a quiet yet undeniably passionate ballad by Takuro Yoshida that has continued to be loved.
Instead of building to a flashy chorus, its calmly woven words seep into the heart.
It portrays the bittersweetness of choosing honesty over correctness, and many listeners may feel their hearts swell each time they hear it.
Released as a single in May 1979, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Otoko Nara!” In 1983, it was also featured as an insert song in the film “Detective Story 2: Ringo no Uta,” further endearing it to audiences.
It’s a song to play on nights when you want to quietly face your inner self, or when you’re spending a moment thinking of someone dear.
Its restrained melody and vocals keep you company in loneliness and gently embrace a weary heart.
HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number
It’s a heart-wrenching unrequited love song from a male perspective.
It’s a track by back number, a three-piece rock band from Gunma Prefecture, released in 2019 as their 20th single.
It served as the theme song for the drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love.” The thick, warm vocals are striking.
Recommended for anyone who’s in love right now, regardless of gender.
balladKetsumeishi
Ballads can capture every emotion—joy, anger, sorrow, and delight—in their lyrics, but they do tend to feature sentimental words and melodies.
This song, “Ballad,” is a quintessential track that represents today’s youth ballads.
It tells of two lovers who chose to part ways.
Even so, their feelings aren’t neatly resolved… The lingering desire to see each other again is expressed in clear, straightforward language.
It’s a sad song, yet it somehow feels just a little healing.
That’s the power of music.
It’s the definitive men’s ballad, quintessentially Ketsumeishi.
Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi
“Utau Taï no Ballad” (The Singer’s Ballad) is a classic love song with a musician as its protagonist and one of Kazuyoshi Saito’s signature tracks.
The lyrics brim with the straightforward feelings of love penned by a clumsy singer.
From the verse where you can feel Saito’s mature vocals, to the pre-chorus that gradually builds, to the chorus overflowing with emotion—every part hits you straight in the heart.
It’s also a popular pick for karaoke, especially admired as a cool song for men to sing.
LetterSHE’S
Among the moving piano ballads worth highlighting, SHE’S “Letter” is an unmissable track.
The gentle piano accompaniment blends with Ryoma Inoue’s whisper-like vocals to create a profoundly moving sound.
The poetic lyrics, which come together to form a single story, are also irresistible.
The calm, tender resonance of the piano deepens the emotional impact of the words.
What’s more, the harmonies that softly trail the main melody line add just the right touch.
The way your ears naturally pick up on these subtle details might be one of the true charms of a piano ballad.
