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 (41–50)
MissingKubota Toshinobu
With a singing ability that feels beyond the ordinary, “Missing” poignantly portrays an adult’s bittersweet love.
It’s one of Toshinobu Kubota’s signature songs.
Although it was released in 1986, it’s still passed down as a timeless love song today.
The lyrics capture the subtle, indescribable nuances of a complicated romance—feelings anyone who’s experienced an unrequited love can relate to.
If you’re trying to move past a love that just won’t work out, sing your heart out and push through.
Recommended ballads for men: classic songs about love, encouragement, and youth (51–60)
Sakura (2019)Moriyama Naotaro
Originally arranged for a band, this song was released as a solo piano version and continues to be loved even now in the Reiwa era.
In every era’s arrangement, you can feel Naotaro Moriyama’s distinctive touch, preserving a resonance of “Sakura” that fits the times.
The lyrics are a message wishing happiness for a friend setting off on a new journey, which has made it a staple at graduation ceremonies and spring events.
Many of you have probably sung it yourselves, haven’t you?
#302Hirai Ken
This is a song by Ken Hirai released in 2019, which also served as the theme song for the drama “4 Minutes to Marigold.” It’s a ballad themed around a love story so intense it sets you ablaze, and it’s a masterpiece sung with deeply emotional vocals.
The karaoke bit in the first chorus feels so real it makes your heart skip a beat.
Lion HeartSMAP
Ballads sung by idols can be really nice, too.
SMAP’s “Lion Heart,” from the group that needs no introduction, is also a classic ballad.
It was used as the theme song for the drama Food Fight, starring SMAP member Tsuyoshi Kusanagi.
The lyrics are heartwarming, like speaking to one’s child—or to one’s girlfriend.
The lyricist is screenwriter Shinji Nojima, and the words carry a storyteller’s touch.
It’s a wonderful song to listen to, and also great for karaoke.
It even drew attention for the rumor that Kusanagi was the only member without a solo part.
Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze
When it comes to songs you belt out at karaoke, you definitely can’t leave this one out! Even though it was released in 2006, it still ranks high as a popular karaoke pick.
Its appeal lies in the masculine lyrics—blunt yet straightforward and sincere.
Not only is the solo part at the beginning perfect for singing your heart out, but the rap section in the middle is great too! It’s the kind of song that would be a blast to split into parts and sing together with friends.
A world without youto shiki
When it comes to ballads, many people think of breakup songs.
But because it’s such a classic theme, I think a lot of listeners struggle to find songs that feel truly fresh.
That’s why I want to introduce “A World Without You,” which has been gaining buzz on social media.
The track is by singer-songwriter Toshi.
It grapples with how to face a world where the person you love is gone.
Pay special attention to the uniquely raw, cathartic vocal delivery—it’s unlike anything else.
I was born to meet you.EXILE SHOKICHI
SHOKICHI from EXILE’s second single, “I Was Born to Meet You,” is a love ballad that sings honestly and straightforwardly—without embellishment—about the joy of meeting someone precious.
Since SHOKICHI himself wrote the lyrics and composed the music, his sincere personality really comes through.
Just listening to his sweet voice is enough to make you feel happy!