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[2026] A curated list of recommended popular ballads sung by male Western artists

Stirring melodies and sounds that move the heart, messages conveyed through emotional vocals—the forms vary, but ballads have always been loved in every era.

Even those who usually listen to intense rock or dance tracks may sometimes feel like lending an ear to a ballad.

In this article, we’ll introduce must-hear Western ballads—specifically, classic ballads sung by male vocalists!

From grand, string-laden numbers to fine folky tunes and catchy pop ballads, the first half highlights recent hits, while the latter half features timeless classics.

If you’re ready to cry your heart out to music, be sure to check these out.

[2026] A curated list of recommended popular ballads sung by male Western artists (61–70)

A Whiter Shade Of PaleProcol Harum

A Whiter Shade of Pale [50th Anniversary Stereo Mix]
A Whiter Shade Of PaleProcol Harum

A nostalgic sound—haven’t you heard it somewhere at least once? “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” known in Japanese as “Blue Shadow,” is a famous song.

Its organ sound is especially striking, and it’s frequently performed on instruments like the Electone and synthesizers.

The conversational vocal delivery, along with the organ and drums, wonderfully brings this dynamic ballad to life.

It’s a song that will surely continue to be passed down for generations.

Ballad Of The Mighty INoel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds – Ballad Of The Mighty I (Official Video)
Ballad Of The Mighty INoel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

It’s included on former Oasis member Noel Gallagher’s second album, “Chasing Yesterday.” Johnny Marr from The Smiths plays guitar on it, delivering a fantastic solo.

Noel himself boasts that it’s “the best ballad I’ve ever written,” and it truly unfolds with a grand, expansive sense of scale.

A COLD PLAYThe Kid LAROI

The Kid LAROI – A COLD PLAY (Official Audio)
A COLD PLAYThe Kid LAROI

A work by The Kid Laroi that strikes the heart with searing honesty.

Known for his 2021 smash hit “STAY,” he surprise-released this piece in September 2025—a pop ballad that lays bare the pain of heartbreak.

Over a cold, restrained beat, the song powerfully conveys regret over not being able to save a loved one and the ache that follows.

Since The First Time, he has been exploring new modes of expression, and his deeply personal emotions are etched into this track, turning its candor into a universal appeal.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side on sentimental nights—highly recommended for anyone who loves emotional music.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)
Don't Look Back In AngerOasis

Released in 1995, Oasis’s classic “Don’t Look Back in Anger” quickly became a worldwide hit.

Since it was written by Noel Gallagher, who was high rather often, it’s a bit questionable whether it’s a sane love song, but as a melody it comes together as a textbook rock ballad.

It was also used as the theme song for the Japanese film BECK, so many of you in Japan may already be familiar with it.

Real LoveEric Benét

Eric Benet – Real Love – OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO
Real LoveEric Benét

Eric Benét is known as a leading artist in neo-soul and R&B.

He was active around the same time as Boyz II Men and Brian McKnight, and has continued to support R&B up to the present day.

One of his defining traits is his high-level falsetto.

While it’s not extremely high, it stands out for being very natural and incredibly smooth.

His song “Real Love” is one of his most popular ballads, featuring a bright and heartwarming melody.

Sister ChristianNight Ranger

Night Ranger – Sister Christian (Official Music Video)
Sister ChristianNight Ranger

A power ballad written by drummer Kelly Keagy, who grew up in Eugene, Oregon, about his sister Christy, who is ten years older than him.

The original title was “Sister Christy.” It was released as a single by Night Ranger in 1984.

Stop Crying Your Heart OutOasis

Oasis – Stop Crying Your Heart Out (Official Video)
Stop Crying Your Heart OutOasis

It’s included on their fifth album, Heathen Chemistry.

The older brother Noel wrote the lyrics and music and played guitar, while the younger brother Liam handled vocals.

It’s a simple, Oasis-style ballad that was used as the theme song for the 2004 film The Butterfly Effect.