[Latest Hits & Hall of Fame Classics] Recommended Popular Western Ballads

Be KindMarshmello & Halsey

Marshmello & Halsey – Be Kind (Marshmello Lyric Video)

This one is also a dance number, so it’s hard to feel much of a ballad vibe, but for dance-pop it has dynamic shifts and a somewhat bluesy touch.

It’s the long-awaited collaboration pairing the charismatic hit producer Marshmello with the hugely popular singer Halsey for the first time.

The sentimental lyrics, Marshmello’s signature bittersweet melodies, and Halsey’s husky yet cute vocals entwine to create a perfectly balanced track.

It’s dance-pop with the makings of a long-running hit, thanks to the way their strongest qualities mesh so well.

Released on April 30, 2020, this song gave hope to music fans as the world faced the onslaught of COVID-19.

Ten Feet TallWrabel

Wrabel – Ten Feet Tall (Original Version)

With the rather eccentric title ‘Ten Feet Tall,’ you can’t really tell what kind of song it is until you actually listen—but once you hit play, you’re swept away by its lush vocals and instrumentation.

Reading the lyrics reveals an additional literary depth that is another part of its charm.

Also, be sure to look up and enjoy the remix that Afrojack plays.

That version has a strong anthem feel and is timeless EDM.

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Murakami Shinpei

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Rain On MeLady Gaga, Ariana Grande

Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande – Rain On Me (Official Music Video)

Despite what the title might suggest, it’s a bright, breezy uptempo tune.

I hesitated to call it a ballad, but its dramatic contrasts and grand scale led me to categorize it as one.

It features a distinctly nostalgic bassline reminiscent of 2000s house music, making it perfect for the summer season.

It’s also great for the rainy season leading into summer, with a brisk momentum that blows away the damp humidity.

Is this the definitive 2020s-style future house? It carries a nostalgic vibe that subtly nods to old-school house music.

Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande had never collaborated before, making this a long-awaited pairing for fans!

Before You GoLewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi – Before You Go (Official Video)

This is a popular ballad by Scottish artist Lewis Capaldi, whose rich, deep vocals are truly captivating.

Featured on his debut album “Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent,” it pairs a simple sound arrangement with an unflinching look at negative themes, delivered with emotional intensity that is profoundly moving.

It also gained significant traction on social media, so many younger listeners are likely very familiar with it.

Love SomeoneLukas Graham

Lukas Graham – Love Someone [Official Music Video]

Lukas Graham is a band that’s hugely popular in Denmark.

I think their pop, catchy songs are relatable to people all over the world.

This is one of their ballads.

Even though it’s a ballad, it’s not too heavy—it’s a wonderfully warm song, overflowing with love.

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Murakami Shinpei

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