Piano ballads of Western music—from timeless hits to the latest songs

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.

The tones born from the piano—a percussion instrument and a string instrument—overflow with a charm that captivates the hearts of us Japanese and won’t let go.

When we think of popular music where the piano takes center stage—playing a bubbly melody when we’re happy and a tune that gently accompanies our hearts when we’re feeling down—it has to be ballads.

In this article, we bring together timeless masterpieces of piano-centered Western ballads, spanning from classic favorites to the latest hits, resonating across generations.

Enjoy a richly varied selection that transcends genres—not only classic piano-and-voice ballads, but also rock ballads, jazz, pop, and more.

Piano Ballads of Western Music — From Classic Hits to the Newest Songs (41–50)

CondolenceBenjamin Clementine

Benjamin Clementine – Condolence

CondolenceBenjamin Clementine

This is a 2015 release by London-born Benjamin Clementine.

A multi-instrumentalist, Benjamin is also an accomplished pianist, and the distinctive piano melody in this track is particularly striking.

Before you know it, you’ll be captivated by Benjamin’s deep, smoky voice as well.

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Inside Your HeavenCarrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood – Inside Your Heaven (AOL Sessions)

Inside Your HeavenCarrie Underwood

A track released in 2005 by Carrie Underwood.

Desmond Child, who has also worked on tracks for Bon Jovi and Aerosmith, was involved in its production.

It reached No.

1 on the charts in the United States and Canada.

The track was also released by Bo Bice.

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Jar of HeartsChristina Perri

christina perri – jar of hearts [official music video]

Jar of HeartsChristina Perri

A track by American singer-songwriter Christina Perri, released as a digital download in 2010.

It reached the Top 10 on charts around the world and was certified platinum in eight countries.

Following the song’s success, there’s a story that fans often sent Christina bottles.

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NightingaleDemi Lovato

Demi Lovato – Nightingale (Official Video)

NightingaleDemi Lovato

This is a song included on Demi Lovato’s 2013 album, Demi.

While Demi has many tracks with an aggressive sound, you can truly feel her genuine talent in the way she passionately delivers even ballads like this one.

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ClownEmeli Sandé

Emeli Sandé – Clown (Official Music Video)

ClownEmeli Sandé

It’s a 2013 release by Emeli Sandé, who has British and Zambian roots.

The serene piano melody and Emeli’s beautiful vocals feel truly cleansing.

Even when I’m in a dark, low mood, listening to this song makes it feel like a ray of light breaks into my heart.

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