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 in Western Music — From Classic Hits to the Newest Tracks (31–40)

GoneBebe Rexha

Bebe Rexha – Gone (Lyrics)

GoneBebe Rexha

Bebe Rexha is an American singer-songwriter who has been active since 2010.

This track was released as a digital download in 2014.

It was used in a commercial for the TV drama series Love Child and reached No.

87 on the Australian charts.

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Through The RainMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – Through The Rain (Official Music Video)

Through The RainMariah Carey

This is a ballad released in 2002 by the songstress Mariah Carey, known for her overwhelming vocal prowess.

The gentle tone of the piano and the simplicity of the slow-tempo synthesizer are striking, making it a track where you can fully savor Mariah’s soft yet stunning high notes.

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MadNe-Yo

Ne-Yo – Mad (Official Music Video)

MadNe-Yo

It’s a song by Ne-Yo released in 2008.

It opens with a beautiful piano melody, and Ne-Yo’s clear, sweet vocals match the piano perfectly.

It’s a track that makes you feel that Ne-Yo’s music is the very definition of soul-stirring, heartfelt music.

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Ordinary DayVanessa Carlton

Vanessa Carlton – Ordinary Day

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.

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Looks Like We Made ItBarry Manilow

Looks Like We Made It

Looks Like We Made ItBarry Manilow

A track released in 1977 by Barry Manilow.

Pianist Richard Kerr was involved in its production.

It was used in a Chevrolet Silverado commercial aired during the 2012 Super Bowl.

It was sampled in Dickie Goodman’s 1977 track “Star Warts.”

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