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Lovely ballad

[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 (131–140)

Flying Without WingsWestlife

Westlife – Flying Without Wings (Official Video)
Flying Without WingsWestlife

A smash hit released by the Irish boy band Westlife.

Written by Steve Mac and Wayne Hector, the song is about the happiness felt through friendship and love.

It was performed by Ruben Studdard in the Season 2 finale of American Idol in 2003.

Love Is All AroundWet Wet Wet

Love Is All Around (From “Four Weddings And A Funeral”)
Love Is All AroundWet Wet Wet

This is a cover of The Troggs’ “Love Is All Around,” used as the theme song for the film Four Weddings.

It was highly praised in the UK as surpassing the original and became a major hit.

It’s still very popular as a rock ballad, too, and remains beloved today.

The interplay with the guitar, the members’ harmonies, and the heartfelt lead vocal are all beautiful, aren’t they?

You Got It AllUnion J

Union J – You Got It All (Official Video)
You Got It AllUnion J

A song released as a single in 2014 by the British boy band Union J.

It was written by Nasri, the lead singer of the Canadian band Magic!.

The track reached No.

2 on the UK and Scottish charts.

Love of a LifetimeFireHouse

A romantic song about unwavering devotion and everlasting love.

It’s also a popular choice for a bride and groom’s first dance at weddings.

Released as a single by FireHouse in 1991, it reached No.

5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

BoyfriendsHarry Styles

Harry Styles – Boyfriends (Audio)
BoyfriendsHarry Styles

One Direction, the British boy band that garnered overwhelming support from women around the world, was hugely popular in Japan as well.

Harry Styles is a former member of One Direction and is now releasing a string of solo hit songs.

Among his works, the ballad I especially recommend is “Boyfriends.” The acoustic instrumentation and vocal arrangements rich in harmonies beautifully create a delicate, wistful atmosphere.

Love You MoreJLS

JLS Love You More – BBC Children In Need Single 2010
Love You MoreJLS

A song released as a single in 2010 by the British boy band JLS.

Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Toby Gad, known for his work with Beyoncé and Fergie, was involved in its production.

The track reached No.

1 on the charts in the UK and Scotland.

No One Else Comes CloseJoe

Joe – No One Else Comes Close (Official Video)
No One Else Comes CloseJoe

Joe, the King of R&B.

From his debut to the present, he’s been steadfastly following the quintessential R&B path—a born-and-bred R&B singer.

While he doesn’t necessarily boast any one standout vocal trick, his rhythm and tone are incredibly pleasing, making him irresistible to R&B lovers.

One of his famous ballads is “No One Else Comes Close.” He has plenty of other great ballads, but I chose this one because it’s especially sweet.

With an unbelievably sweet melody and lyrics, it’s highly recommended for women as well.