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I Want to Be Healed from the Heart: Recommended Western Ballads Sung by Female Vocalists

Ballads are known for having many melodies and lyrics that really hit you in the heart.

Suddenly, but do you know the clear definition of a ballad?

In fact, the definition of a ballad is quite ambiguous: as long as it’s a “story-like song,” it can be considered a ballad regardless of the melody.

So this time, we’ve picked out some classic ballad masterpieces.

Unlike in Japan, Western ballads feature a wide variety of melodies, so be sure to check them out.

The first half features famous classics, but the second half includes lesser-known yet incredibly tasteful tracks.

If you’re well-versed in Western music, don’t miss ranks 11–20!

Healing from the Heart: Recommended Western Ballads Sung by Female Vocalists (141–150)

ShadowAshlee Simpson

A track released in 2004 by American artist Ashlee Simpson.

It sings about how she felt at 15, living in the shadow of her celebrity sister, Jessica.

The track was a hit in the United States, Australia, and various European countries.

I Love You Always ForeverDonna Lewis

I Love You Always Forever (2008 version/Bonus Track)
I Love You Always ForeverDonna Lewis

It’s a hit song from her debut album, released in 1996.

It’s a love ballad highlighted by her slightly saccharine voice.

However, based on the lyrics and the title, it’s also often considered a heartbreak song.

She drew inspiration from a novel she read when writing it, so it carries a story-like weight that quietly tugs at the heart.

This was her major hit, but it remains a highly popular ballad even today.

GuaranàElodie

Guaranà (An Intimate Performance)
GuaranàElodie

Elodie, a singer-songwriter from Italy, has a very husky, full-bodied voice, and she leverages that tone to release works across various genres.

Among her ballads, a particularly recommended track is Guaranà.

Although it’s less well-known among her songs—partly because it’s an album track—it’s a finely crafted, high-quality piece.

If you’re into grand, serious ballads, this is a must-listen!

Ella Tú Y YoGirl Ultra

Girl Ultra – Ella Tú Y Yo (Video Oficial)
Ella Tú Y YoGirl Ultra

Girl Ultra is an R&B singer from Mexico.

While she’s hardly known in Japan, she’s drawing a great deal of attention in Spanish-speaking regions like Spain and Mexico.

One reason for her success may be that she releases many songs that prioritize artistry in a way you don’t often see in the English-speaking world.

Among her R&B tracks, the ballad I especially recommend is Ella Tú Y Yo.

It’s a fascinating song where a pop sensibility and a stylish mood intertwine.

Calling YouJevetta Steele

Bagdad Cafe is a West German film released in 1987.

It remains highly acclaimed as a classic.

While it’s a quirky film with a surreal style that portrays “love,” it concludes with a very heartwarming ending.

The song Calling You was created as the theme for Bagdad Cafe and is sung by Jevetta Steele, renowned as a great R&B singer.

With its uniquely atmospheric melody, it’s a must-check for anyone looking for a ballad with a twist!

Ecorchée ViveKayna Samet

Kayna Samet – Ecorchée Vive (Clip Officiel)
Ecorchée ViveKayna Samet

Kaina Samet is an R&B singer from France.

Since she also spent time working as a rapper, she has released many tracks that incorporate hip-hop elements.

In terms of vibe, she’s close to Lauryn Hill.

Her voice is very husky, and it’s strikingly similar to Alicia Keys.

Among her ballads, the one I especially recommend is Ecorchée Vive.

It’s crafted as an R&B ballad with strong hip-hop arrangements.

Always Be My BabyMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – Always Be My Baby (Official Music Video)
Always Be My BabyMariah Carey

This is a ballad released in 1995 by the songstress who shocked the music world with her seven-octave vocal range.

Only she could sing a girl’s pure love so adorably and charmingly.

It’s a song that gives strength to girls struggling with love, and her captivating voice is sure to soothe you.

It’s easy to see why this track remains so popular even now.