[Western Music] The World of Power Ballads: A Collection of Must-Listen Gems to Start With
Have you ever heard the term “power ballad”? It refers to songs in the ballad style that incorporate emotional guitar solos and solid, heavy drums, often featuring rich backing vocals, beautiful strings, and piano.
In fact, they’ve been around since the 1970s.
For those who know the golden age of Western music in the 1980s, the term is familiar, but many younger music fans may not know it well.
Even bands from heavier genres of the time, like heavy metal and hard rock, usually had at least one classic power ballad on their albums.
This time, we’ll be introducing some of the greatest power ballads in Western music!
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[Western Music] The World of Power Ballads: A Curated Collection of Must-Listen Gems (1–10)
Can’t Fight This FeelingREO Speed Wagon
REO Speedwagon is a rock band whose 1980 album Hi Infidelity recorded phenomenal sales.
Their 1984 release Can’t Fight This Feeling is a power ballad where I especially want you to pay attention to the guitar solo.
In particular, the mid-song guitar solo begins with very high notes called harmonics, adding a great touch of spice to the otherwise calm mood of the song—it makes you want to listen to it over and over!
Love SongTesla
Tesla is one of the bands that epitomized the hair metal boom that swept the United States in the 1980s.
Among their songs, the standout power ballad is “Love Song.” It opens with simple guitar accompaniment and a commanding vocal performance.
Jeff Keith’s raspy voice and vocal prowess are utterly captivating.
The song expresses feelings for a loved one—true to its title, “Love Song” is a passionate ode to love.
(Everything I Do) I Do It For YouBryan Adams
Bryan Adams is a singer-songwriter from Canada.
His 1991 release “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” is a power ballad known for its strong vocals and rich harmonies.
It starts with a quiet piano accompaniment, so at first it seems like an ordinary ballad, but the band sound comes in partway through and the song builds more and more—that’s the key point.
The arrangement that ends with an emotional guitar solo is really cool, too!
[Western Music] The world of power ballads: A collection of must-hear gems (11–20)
You’re the InspirationCHICAGO
Chicago, who are primarily active in Los Angeles, deliver with “You’re the Inspiration,” a track rich with lush harmonies that are deeply satisfying to hear.
The overall key is high, and the layered chorus floating even above that range gives it an exhilarating feel.
The understated backing performance does a great job of subtly spotlighting the vocals.
There’s no flashy guitar solo, but it’s a highly energizing power ballad I can wholeheartedly recommend!
AloneHeart
Heart is a rock band led by sisters Ann Wilson on vocals and Nancy Wilson on guitar.
Their song “Alone” is a highly recommended power ballad, with irresistible powerful vocals and harmonies and a searing guitar solo.
The chorus, which takes full advantage of a high female vocal range, is so energizing it makes you want to thrust your fist in the air as you listen.
Also, the deeply echoed drums—so characteristic of hard rock from that era—are a must-hear!
FaithfullyJourney
Journey is a rock band whose piercing high notes from Steve Perry feel so good.
Their “Faithfully” is a power ballad where Neal Schon’s soaring guitar tone sets your heart ablaze.
The keyboard phrases also add extra weight and richness to the track.
Journey has other power ballads like “Open Arms” and “Send Her My Love,” so be sure to check them out!
Is This LoveWhitesnake
The first power ballad love song that comes to mind is “Is This Love.” This song by Whitesnake, a rock band formed in England, is most captivating for its beautiful melody that even resonates with the spirit of Japanese kayōkyoku.
The guitar features emotional playing that uses long sustained tones to great effect—it’s electrifying.
It’s a very singable Western rock ballad that I highly recommend, so give it a try at karaoke with your coworkers or school friends!