[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)

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.

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FaithfullyJourney

Journey – Faithfully (Official HD Video – 1983)

FaithfullyJourney

It’s a classic by the American band Journey, who were active in the ’80s, featuring a rock sound layered over a piano accompaniment.

It became a massive hit not only in the United States but worldwide.

Above all, the quintessential rock ballad sound and the powerfully melancholic vocals make it a tear-jerker.

It stands as a landmark of the 1980s, an era when music began to diversify and artists thrived with a variety of expressions.

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Murakami Shinpei

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RivedertiMario Biondi

Mario Biondi – Rivederti (Sanremo 2018)

RivedertiMario Biondi

Mario Biondi is a soul singer from Italy.

Believe it or not, he’s over two meters tall.

The voice that resonates from his towering frame is extremely deep, with one of the richest tones in the world.

His song “Rivederti” was performed at the Sanremo Music Festival, the most prestigious in the world.

It’s crafted with an incredibly sophisticated, jazz-inspired melody.

If you like jazz, be sure to check it out!

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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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Thojana Ya TheselePresss

Presss Thojana Ya Thesele

Thojana Ya TheselePresss

Press is an artist from the Republic of South Africa.

He’s fairly well-known locally, yet he’s a rare kind of artist who doesn’t limit his activities—he’ll even perform in tiny, intimate venues.

His biggest appeal is surely his soulful singing, woven from his richly layered voice.

His tone is very full without ever feeling overbearing, making it extremely easy to listen to.

You can feel that talent in “Thojana Ya Thesele” as well.

Highly recommended if you’re in the mood for a soulful ballad.

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