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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 roundup of recommended popular ballads sung by male Western artists (51–60)

Lets get it onMarvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye – Let’s Get It On
Lets get it onMarvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye, the artist who ignited the neo-soul movement.

In addition to “Let’s Get It On,” he created a number of timeless classics like “Sexual Healing” and “What’s Going On.” As a neo-soul artist, he has many tracks that blend soul music with various genres, but “Let’s Get It On” has a relatively orthodox soul feel.

Be sure to check it out!

A Song For YouDonny Hathaway

Alongside Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Curtis Mayfield, Donny Hathaway was a legendary artist who helped propel the New Soul movement.

His “A Song For You” is a cover of Leon Russell’s piece.

At the time, it was virtually unheard of for a Black artist to cover a white artist’s song, but Hathaway disregarded such cultural barriers and covered works by various white singers.

He is celebrated not only for his immense talent but also for these pioneering contributions.

Let It BeThe Beatles

A song written by Paul McCartney.

It was inspired by his mother, Maria, who died when he was 14.

In 1972, it became the first Beatles single to be released in the then-Soviet Union.

The song was performed at Linda McCartney’s funeral.

Better ManWestlife

The Irish male vocal group Westlife.

This epic track was written by Ed Sheeran, who is also a fan of theirs.

Not only are the four voices beautifully layered, but the songwriting brilliantly conveys the song’s—and the lyrics’—message on a deeper level.

The music video’s storyline is intriguing as well, making it a track you can enjoy right through to the end.

Sign of the TimesHarry Styles

Harry Styles – Sign of the Times (Official Video)
Sign of the TimesHarry Styles

This is a solo track by Harry Styles, a member of One Direction.

The song is striking for his pure, crystal-clear vocals laid over powerful drums.

It’s a chill track you’ll want to listen to with your eyes closed, and despite being one of the UK’s top idols, it showcases his musical depth—a captivating, powerful ballad brimming with his charm.