Piano ballads of Western music—from timeless hits to the latest songs
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.
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Piano Ballads in Western Music — From Classic Hits to the Newest Tracks (31–40)
Ordinary DayVanessa Carlton
This is a song by Vanessa Carlton released in 2002.
For Vanessa, who is famous for singing while playing the piano, the piano might be considered a part of her.
Of course, one recommendation is the piano melody she performs, but the lyrics are also noteworthy, depicting a profound message conveyed by a boy who suddenly appears in the midst of everyday life.
Someone Like YouAdele
A track released by Adele in 2011.
It was produced at Harmony Studios in Los Angeles, which features a grand piano.
It topped charts around the world and was sampled in Bambu’s 2011 track “Something.”
LifelineAlicia Keys
A soul-stirring masterpiece woven from a solemnly resonant piano melody that seeps into the heart and vocals brimming with deep emotion.
Released by Alicia Keys in November 2023, this song is a warm anthem of encouragement that stands with those facing hardship.
Inspired by the film The Color Purple, the track has been making waves on the R&B charts.
Its lyrics speak of steadfast support, promising to stay by your side through any adversity—like a ray of light gently enveloping our hearts.
It’s truly a healing harmony that tenderly soothes a weary soul.
Fallin’Alicia Keys
When it comes to piano divas, it has to be her—Alicia Keys’s 2001 debut single.
The gospel-tinged sound of this track pairs perfectly with her soulful, husky voice.
Be sure to check out the music video, where Alicia plays the piano with a beautiful, composed presence.
EverytimeBritney Spears
This is a song included on Britney Spears’ 2003 album “In the Zone.” It’s said to be a song she sang for her then boyfriend, Justin Timberlake, with the theme centered on feelings of apology to him.
The thin, high notes of the piano resemble a lullaby, while Britney’s sweet, husky vocals seem to express a sense of heartbreak.
Piano Ballads of Western Music — From Classic Hits to the Newest Songs (41–50)
Save The Best For LastVanessa Williams
An elegant love song that portrays a story of merciless love.
Released by Vanessa Williams in 1992, it became a worldwide hit, reached No.
1 on the charts in the United States, Canada, and Australia, and was nominated for a Grammy Award.
UnfaithfulRihanna
It’s a song by Rihanna released in 2006.
Even though it came out over a decade ago, you can still hear Rihanna’s alluring voice just as it is today, and the fact that it feels completely natural is one of its charms.
The piano tone in the intro carries a sense of gloom, yet Rihanna’s powerful vocals actually harmonize with the melody.