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 ballad songs in Western music (21–30)

Every Time You Go AwayPaul Young

Paul Young – Everytime You Go Away (Official Video)
Every Time You Go AwayPaul Young

Paul Young, hailing from England, became a massive hit around the world.

Known as a leading figure in blue-eyed soul, he won Best British Male at the 1985 Brit Awards.

This famous ballad of his is a song about searing loss, as if a piece of your heart is taken each time someone you love leaves.

The singing, fretless-bass melody is striking as well.

Released as a single from the classic album The Secret of Association, it reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts in July 1985.

It’s also well known for being featured in the film Planes, Trains and Automobiles.

Put it on during a sentimental night, and its gentle melody just might seep into your heart.

Love Is The AnswerUtopia

Although it’s not very well known in Japan, this is truly a hidden masterpiece of a ballad.

The Japanese title is “Love Is the Answer.” Todd Rundgren is a multi-talented artist who continues to be active today, doing everything from songwriting and composing to singing, playing instruments, and producing.

This piece was released as a song by Utopia, the band he was part of.

It’s also famous for the cover hit by England Dan & John Ford Coley.

A song distinguished by its flowing, beautifully crafted melody line.

WaterfallsPaul McCartney

“Waterfalls” is a hidden gem by Paul McCartney, who has produced many masterpieces and hit songs.

It was released in 1980 and included on the album McCartney II, which came out the same year, later being issued as the album’s second single.

The album also yielded the hit song “Coming Up.” Compared to that track, “Waterfalls” may seem understated, but it features a distinctly McCartney-esque, beautifully melancholic melodic line that is outstanding.

Something About YouLevel 42

Level 42 is a funk/fusion rock band from the United Kingdom.

They were popular throughout the 1980s for their sophisticated sound.

“Something About You” is a track from their 1985 album World Machine.

It’s catchy and perfect for dancing.

Move In A Little Closer BabyHarmony Grass

Harmony Grass – Move In A Little Closer Baby (1969)
Move In A Little Closer BabyHarmony Grass

This is a work whose warm, gentle harmonies wrap around your heart like sunlight.

It was created by Harmony Grass, a British group active in the late 1960s.

They’re a band that represents the genre known as sunshine pop.

This piece features rich, layered choruses and an uplifting melody that feels truly delightful.

The lyrics portray the feelings of a protagonist who reaches out to someone withdrawn and lonely, staying close and welcoming them with warmth.

Released in December 1968, the song reached No.

24 on the UK chart the following year and was included on the album This Is Us.

When you’re feeling a bit down or want to embrace a kinder mood, listening to it can bring a sense of comfort, as if you were basking in a patch of sunlight.