[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] 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.

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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?

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Love of a LifetimeFireHouse

Firehouse – Love Of A Lifetime

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.

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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.

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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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