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)

Sweet LoveAnita Baker

Anita Baker – Sweet Love {Actual Video}
Sweet LoveAnita Baker

Anita Baker is a singer from the United States.

“Sweet Love,” released in 1986, is one of her signature works.

It can be considered one of the quintessential love ballads of the 1980s.

Her voice has warmth, and on top of that, her vocal technique and expressive power are all top-notch.

Even today, it doesn’t feel dated—a masterpiece that sings of universal love.

Ordinary WorldDuran Duran

Duran Duran – Ordinary World (Official Music Video)
Ordinary WorldDuran Duran

Included on the 1993 album “Duran Duran.” A four-piece rock band from Birmingham formed in 1978.

It’s a graceful and very pleasing number, with Simon’s vocals riding over a gently paced mid-tempo rhythm and a pop, moody melody.

Open ArmsJourney

Journey – Open Arms (Official Video – 1982)
Open ArmsJourney

Included on the 1981 album “Escape.” A five-member rock band from San Francisco formed in 1973.

The contrasting tones of the hard guitar and soft piano blend well, and the high-pitched vocals, sung over the woven melodies, fuse nicely to create a satisfying result.

Sitting In The ParkGangway

Gangway – Sitting In The Park (LP)
Sitting In The ParkGangway

Gangway is a band from Denmark in Northern Europe.

This work is an impressive piece with a color that sits somewhere between a ballad and power pop.

There’s also a version of the same song with a more acoustic arrangement, but this one, rich in electropop elements, is more vivid.

Released in 1988.

These DreamsHeart

Included on the 1985 album “Heart.” A six-member rock band from Seattle formed in 1973.

The melody carries a dreamy, allegorical atmosphere that leaves a strong impression, and I think Nancy’s vocals—taking the lead here—match the overall tone of the song beautifully, making it a fine track.