Ballad Songs by Male Western Artists: Popular Song Rankings [2026]

What A Wonderful WorldLouis Armstrong78rank/position

Louis Armstrong – What A Wonderful World (Official Video)

Louis Armstrong, affectionately known as “Satchmo,” recorded the classic What a Wonderful World.

Released in 1967, this song is known not only as a jazz standard but also as an anti-war anthem imbued with a wish for peace.

Its bright, hopeful lyrics and melody seem to stand in contrast to the darkness of wartime.

Armstrong’s husky, warm voice gently illuminates the small joys of everyday life.

Why not listen to it when you want to express gratitude to someone special, or on a quiet night when you wish for peace for the world and yourself?

Lets get it onMarvin Gaye79rank/position

Marvin Gaye – Let’s Get It On

Marvin Gaye, the artist who ignited the neo-soul movement.

In addition to “Let’s Get It On,” he created a number of timeless classics like “Sexual Healing” and “What’s Going On.” As a neo-soul artist, he has many tracks that blend soul music with various genres, but “Let’s Get It On” has a relatively orthodox soul feel.

Be sure to check it out!

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Ryo

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Holly Jolly ChristmasMichael Bublé80rank/position

Michael Bublé – Holly Jolly Christmas [Official HD]

Originally, it’s a classic Christmas song from the 1960s, first performed by Burl Ives.

Michael Bublé’s version was released in 2011.

It has jazzy elements, making it very stylish and easy to groove to.

At just two minutes long, it’s not hard to learn and feels familiar, so I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to pick up a Christmas tune! Overall, it’s a song that sounds really cool when sung with a relaxed feel and a light touch.

The jazz swing is key—don’t overthink it, let your body catch the groove! The rhythm will naturally fall into place.

I feel like it’s perfect for singing while swaying side to side with a drink in hand.

Try singing it as if you’re humming during a little break!

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Kubota Mami

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Heal The WorldMichael Jackson81rank/position

Michael Jackson – Heal The World (Official Video)

Michael Jackson’s 1992 release “Heal the World” is a grand song themed around global issues.

Through his music, Michael conveyed social messages—such as human rights and environmental concerns—to audiences around the world.

Among these, this song carries the message: “Let’s make the world a better place for everyone.” In the latter part of the track, there is a section where many voices sing the chorus together.

Listening to that section while reflecting on the song’s message allows its beauty to resonate even more.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Hold My HandMichael Jackson82rank/position

Michael Jackson – Hold My Hand (Duet with Akon) (Official Video) ft. Akon

It’s a heartwarming pop ballad that delivers a message of love and unity.

Discovered almost complete, the song was released as a single in November 2010 and reached the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100.

In the music video, concert footage of Michael Jackson is interwoven with scenes of fans from different generations holding hands.

The lyrics, which reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of overcoming difficult times together, speak to universal themes we can all relate to.

It’s a song I hope people will listen to at weddings and receptions, taking a loved one’s hand and sharing hope for the future—those feelings are woven into this one track.

7 SummersMorgan Wallen83rank/position

Morgan Wallen – 7 Summers

This song, released in August 2020 by Tennessee-born singer-songwriter Morgan Wallen, is a beautiful ballad that evokes nostalgia for summers past.

Blending elements of country, pop rock, and soft rock, its sweet and wistful melody resonates deeply.

The lyrics, which reflect on his youth in East Tennessee and memories with a former lover, are nostalgic yet emotionally authentic, striking a chord with many listeners.

It set the record for the biggest first-day streams for a country song on Apple Music, reached No.

6 on the Billboard Hot 100, and became Wallen’s first entry into the Top 10—a milestone work.

It’s a poignant track you’ll want to listen to by the seaside as summer draws to a close.

Last NightMorgan Wallen84rank/position

Morgan Wallen – Last Night (One Record At A Time Sessions)

A country-pop ballad that poignantly portrays the anguish of love.

After a drunken argument, the lingering feelings of a man who still wants to keep the relationship going seep through.

Included on the album “One Thing At A Time,” this track has dominated the Billboard charts since its March 2023 release, becoming one of the year’s standout hits.

Blending elements of country, rock, and hip-hop, it embodies a new frontier for Morgan Wallen.

It’s a perfect song not only for those struggling with conflicted relationships, but also for anyone seeking a glimmer of hope amid the heartache.