RAG MusicBallad
Lovely ballad

A classic medium-tempo ballad in Western music

Medium ballads—with passionate vocals and a comfortable tempo—are a particularly popular category among Japanese listeners.

There are many classic medium ballads in Western music as well.

This time, we’ve selected some especially recommended masterpieces of medium ballads from Western music.

Great medium-tempo ballads in Western music (71–80)

LightsJourney

Lights (2024 Remaster)
LightsJourney

Journey, the American hard rock band.

This is the first track from their 1978 album Infinity.

It was later released as a single.

When it comes to Journey, Don’t Stop Believin’ and Open Arms are the famous ones, but this song is a hidden gem overshadowed by those hits.

Listening to Steve Perry’s resonant vocals, you can almost see the dawn breaking over the Bay Area cityscape.

Never Tear Us AparINXS

Included on the 1987 album “Kick.” A five-piece rock band from Sydney formed in 1977.

The quietly chiming keyboard in the background and the assertive guitar sound suit the song’s style well—I think it’s cool.

Michael’s soulful vocals are awesome, too.

ValotteJulian Lennon

A single with the same title as Julian Lennon’s debut album “Valotte,” released in 1984.

Julian, the eldest son of John Lennon, drew attention at the time because his singing voice resembled his father’s so much.

It’s a ballad with a refined, melancholic image.

Under The BridgeRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Under The Bridge [Video]
Under The BridgeRed Hot Chili Peppers

Included on the 1991 album Blood Sugar Sex Magik.

A four-piece rock band from Los Angeles formed in 1983.

The sense of impermanence that pervades the entire track lends the song a wistful air.

The vocal, delivered as if thrown out and spoken to you, sticks in your ears and won’t let go.

Hunting High And Lowa-ha

a-ha – Hunting High and Low (Official Video)
Hunting High And Lowa-ha

Included on the 1985 album “Hunting High and Low.” A three-member music group from Norway formed in 1982.

Morton’s vocals come in suddenly without an intro, and the poignant delivery immediately captures your attention.

The song has a gentle, mellow tone, and the sense of melancholy really hits you in the heart.