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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- Nothing but masterpieces! Love songs by male artists recommended for Gen Z
- [Deeply Moving] A Compilation of Recommended Rock Ballads That Move the Heart
- Tear-jerking songs recommended for men in their 20s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
- For men in their 30s: Heart-touching breakup songs—masterpieces that can move grown men to tears
Recommended ballads for men: Classic songs about love, encouragement, and youth (1–10)
I want to hug you.Mr.Children
“Dakishimetai” has captivated many with its soul-stirring, beautiful melody and lyrics filled with delicate feelings for a loved one.
Known for encapsulating the bittersweet emotions toward a partner and the moving sentiments exchanged at weddings, it especially resonates deeply with men in their 30s and older.
Mr.Children’s songs extend beyond romance, accompanying listeners through many moments in life and giving them courage.
It’s a song to sing earnestly at karaoke, revealing something new each time you hear it.
With a touch of nostalgia, this track will undoubtedly continue to warm the hearts of many.
Happy Endingback number
The theme song of the film “My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday” is performed by back number, a popular band that keeps releasing hit songs.
This track is a deeply heartrending love song supported by people with unrequited or impossible loves.
The lyrics tell of trying to end a love while putting on a brave face, even though you adore someone you can’t be by the side of—and they tighten your chest even if you’re not in love.
Released in 2016, it remains a beloved ballad with enduring popularity.
RomanticSEKAI NO OWARI
A track with a lively beat that showcases a fresh side of SEKAI NO OWARI.
Through the changing seasons, it carefully portrays the feelings of confronting the gap between expectations and reality and reexamining one’s inner self, resulting in lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners.
Released on May 10, 2024, it serves as the theme song for the drama “9 Border” starring Haruna Kawaguchi.
The piece not only marks the band’s musical evolution but was also unveiled in tandem with their large-scale arena tour, ARENA TOUR 2024 “Shinkai,” spanning 33 shows across 15 venues nationwide.
It’s a recommended song to keep close to your heart during life’s turning points or moments of doubt.
catDISH//
This highly relatable song portrays the feelings of a man who can’t let go of a past heartbreak, and in fact, it was written and composed by the singer-songwriter Aimyon.
While lingering attachment is a common theme in breakup songs, this track takes a unique angle by expressing, “I’d be fine even turning into a cat if it means you’d come back.” That distinct touch really showcases Aimyon’s artistry.
Thinking about the protagonist who feels that way is achingly bittersweet, and if you yourself are struggling to move on from a past love, you’ll no doubt find the lyrics resonate with you.
filling upFuji Kaze
This song, with Fujii Kaze’s delicate vocals resonating in the heart, was released on March 15, 2024 as the theme for the film “My Girlfriend Will Be Here in April,” and ranked high on Billboard JAPAN’s Hot 100.
In the music video shot in New York, both an elderly man and a young Fujii Kaze appear, portraying a story of loss and rebirth.
It’s a track that stands by those who have experienced the loss of a loved one or who are standing at a crossroads in life.
Its gently enveloping voice and deeply moving lyrics offer listeners hope and healing.
One more time,One more chanceYamazaki Masayoshi
This song was used as the theme for the 1996 film “The Moon and a Cabbage.” In 2007, it was also chosen as the theme song for “5 Centimeters per Second,” directed by Makoto Shinkai, who is also known for the blockbuster film “Your Name.” Depicting the aching feelings of a man who can’t help but keep searching for the unforgettable image of a former lover, this track is one that will make you cry when you listen to it after a heartbreak.
A masterpiece is a masterpiece no matter when you hear it.
I believe it’s one of those ultimate ballads that will be loved in any era.
Maplesupittsu
This song enjoys extremely high popularity as an autumn anthem.
It’s a track by the four-piece rock band Spitz, released in 1998 as their 19th single.
Originally included on their eighth album, “Fake Fur,” it was later released as a single.
Its appeal lies in the sound and vocals that inevitably turn sentimental.
It’s a heartbreakingly sad love song that can be recommended to listeners of any generation.
