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

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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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.

SmileMorgan Wallen85rank/position

Morgan Wallen – Smile (Official Music Video)

The country singer from the United States, Morgan Wallen, surprise-released a song on December 31, 2024—a moving ballad that delicately portrays the end of a romance.

Through a fleeting smile captured in a photograph, it contrasts past happiness with present distance, conveying the weight of a love that’s been lost.

Written with self-reflection and a mature perspective, the lyrics carry a depth that goes beyond a typical breakup song.

Created in collaboration with Ernest, the track also drew attention for its music video directed by Justin Clough.

It’s a recommended listen for anyone seeking to soothe the pain of heartbreak or to face memories from the past.