Popular and trending recent Western pop ballads
The ballad—a genre that’s hugely popular in Japan as well.
We often hear the word “ballad,” but I think few people know its strict definition.
That’s because the definition is quite vague, and the way it’s recognized is fairly loose, whether in Japanese or Western music.
This time, we’ve selected Western ballads based on the gentle, general image of a ballad that many of us share.
Many internationally popular artists who are also well-known in Japan appear here, so whether you’re not very familiar with Western music or you listen to it regularly, please relax and enjoy to the end.
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Popular and trending recent Western pop ballads (11–20)
Halley’s CometBillie Eilish
A song I want you to listen to while gazing up at the night sky is Halley’s Comet by Billie Eilish, the hugely popular singer and teen icon.
It’s a track from her album Happier Than Ever, released in July 2021, and it’s a captivating ballad featuring Billie’s whispery vocals.
The lyrics, which liken a girl who’s suddenly fallen in love to Halley’s Comet, are especially memorable—making it a perfect song to enjoy while stargazing!
Let Somebody Go ft.Selena GomezColdplay
Among the tracks on British rock band Coldplay’s 2021 album Music of the Spheres, their collaboration with American singer Selena Gomez is this song, Let Somebody Go.
The intro, led by electric piano, is achingly bittersweet, and the lyrics about the pain of parting from a loved one tighten your chest as you listen.
A performance on a popular American TV show has also been released, so be sure to check it out!
When I’m Not AroundJessie Murph
With its sentimental piano, ‘When I’m Not Around’ is a song whose story-like lyrics pierce the heart.
Released by Jessie Murph in 2021, it’s memorable for its honest lyrics about falling in love and its repeatedly wistful melody.
Her vocals add even greater depth to the narrative-style lyrics.
It’s a track I especially recommend to those who haven’t had things go well with someone they care about, or who are struggling with feelings that won’t go the way they want.
Angel BabyTroye Sivan
Angel Baby is a single released in 2021 by Australian singer-songwriter Troye Sivan.
Troye began his career as an artist on YouTube, gained popularity, and made his debut in 2007; he is a multi-talented artist who has also appeared in films.
The passionate music video that has become a hot topic among fans worldwide perfectly matches the mood of Angel Baby, a song about fiery romance.
love is just a wordJasmine Thompson & Calum Scott
A duet song by singer-songwriter Jasmine Thompson, who has been active since her teens, and Calum Scott, who debuted from a popular audition show, titled “love is just a word.” It’s a grand ballad featuring piano and a string quartet, a poignant breakup song about parting with a lover.
The gentle tone of the track layered with their emotional vocals further accentuates the sense of loneliness and sorrow.