[2026 Edition] Tear-Jerking! A Roundup of the Best New Western Pop Ballads

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

No matter the era, magnificent ballads with heart-wrenching melodies and sound continue to move countless music fans.

Across genre preferences, most people can quickly think of one or two ballad songs they count among their favorites.

Among such ballads, this time we’re focusing on “tear-jerking ballads,” delivering a selection that includes the latest popular tracks as well as hidden gem ballads tucked away on albums.

Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, these songs are moving enough to make you cry—but this review also touches on the lyrical content, so be sure to use it as a reference.

[2026 Edition] Tearjerkers! A Curated List of the Latest Western Pop Ballads (51–60)

SmileMorgan Wallen

Morgan Wallen – Smile (Official Music Video)

SmileMorgan Wallen

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.

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Fingers CrossedLauren Spencer Smith

Lauren Spencer Smith – Fingers Crossed

Fingers CrossedLauren Spencer Smith

A wistful, emotional track that swept through TikTok and captured hearts around the world, this is a standout ballad.

Lauren Spencer Smith’s soaring vocals vividly convey the pain and frustration of heartbreak.

The lyric’s “crossing fingers” metaphor is striking, deftly portraying the emptiness of love’s promises.

Released in January 2022, it reached number one on the charts in Ireland and Norway.

Anyone who’s been deeply in love will surely relate, but thanks to its simple, catchy melody, listeners of all ages can enjoy it.

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In conclusion

As mentioned at the beginning, when you listen to songs like the ones introduced here, even if you don’t understand English, just being enveloped by the melody, vocals, and sound can move you to tears. By all means, use translation features to read the lyrics in Japanese, learn the messages imbued with the artists’ feelings, and experience a new kind of inspiration!