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

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.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!

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] Recommended Popular Ballads Sung by Male Western Artists (101–110)

UnderneathAdam Lambert

Adam Lambert – Underneath [FULL SONG] – LYRICS

UnderneathAdam Lambert

Adam Lambert is an artist who rose to global fame through the hit audition show American Idol.

Recognized for his exceptional vocal technique, he also performed as Queen’s second lead vocalist.

While he’s strongly associated with rock, his ballads are highly recommended too—especially Underneath.

If you’re in the mood for a rock-tinged ballad, be sure to give it a listen!

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the beat goes onBeady Eye

Beady Eye – ‘The Beat Goes On’

the beat goes onBeady Eye

Beady Eye is a band led by Liam Gallagher, the former lead vocalist of Oasis.

This song is included on their first album, “Different Gear, Still Speeding.” Composed by Andy Bell, it’s memorable for its repeated phrases.

It was also released as their third single.

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Boys In The StreetCalum Scott

Calum Scott – Boys In The Street (Official Video)

Boys In The StreetCalum Scott

Callum Scott is one of the United Kingdom’s leading singer-songwriters.

With his husky tone and emotional expressiveness, he’s an artist active on the world stage.

Among his works, a ballad I especially recommend is “Boys In The Street.” It’s a piece that portrays the bond between a father and son—not just an ordinary family song, but one that depicts a father gradually opening up to his gay son.

The lyrics are nuanced and complex, so be sure to check the Japanese translation as well.

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Miserable ManDavid Kushner

David Kushner – Miserable Man [Official Music Video]

Miserable ManDavid Kushner

American singer-songwriter David Kushner, who gained attention after a hit on TikTok, produced this song in 2022, and it charted on music charts around the world, especially in Europe.

Its warm sound, centered on acoustic guitar and vocals, is striking and pairs perfectly with his calm singing voice.

It’s a grand ballad with a beautifully expansive, ambient tone.

Listen to the warm melody that gently envelops feelings of anxiety and loneliness.

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In Your ArmsILLENIUM, X Ambassadors

ILLENIUM, X Ambassadors – In Your Arms (Official Visualizer)

In Your ArmsILLENIUM, X Ambassadors

ILLENIUM is a DJ who fires up dance floors around the world with beautiful melodies and choruses full of emotional dynamics.

This is one of his most danceable and exhilarating ballads.

His signature dramatic song progression doesn’t just make you move—it stirs your emotions, delivering the very best in dance music.

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[2026] A roundup of recommended popular ballads sung by male Western artists (111–120)

Broken StringsJames Morrison ft. Nelly Furtado

James Morrison – Broken Strings ft. Nelly Furtado

Broken StringsJames Morrison ft. Nelly Furtado

An acoustic ballad released as a single in 2008 by British musician James Morrison.

It’s a collaboration with Canadian singer-songwriter Nelly Furtado.

It reached No.

1 on the charts in Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland.

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Hand on HeartOlly Murs

Olly Murs – Hand on Heart

Hand on HeartOlly Murs

A song released in 2013 by British singer-songwriter Olly Murs.

He has called it “a favorite song with a melody I love.” The black-and-white music video was directed by Vaughan Arnell and was inspired by the clip for Robbie Williams’s 1997 song “Angels.”

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