A collection of popular Western rock ballads: a roundup of moving, tear-jerking masterpieces.

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.

Rock ballads sung by rock bands and artists are often hit songs or beloved classics performed as the highlight of live shows.

While this style of song has become less common in recent years, the timeless appeal of classic rock ballads that move listeners to their core never fades with time.

In this article, we’ll showcase a selection of exquisite rock ballads by Western rock and hard rock bands and rock artists—all in one place!

They’re full of iconic tracks that are easy to enjoy even for beginners to Western music, making this a great starting point for your musical journey.

Popular Western rock ballads. A collection of moving, tear-jerking masterpieces (31–40)

FaithfullyJourney

Journey – Faithfully (Official HD Video – 1983)

FaithfullyJourney

Journey is a rock band whose piercing high notes from Steve Perry feel so good.

Their “Faithfully” is a power ballad where Neal Schon’s soaring guitar tone sets your heart ablaze.

The keyboard phrases also add extra weight and richness to the track.

Journey has other power ballads like “Open Arms” and “Send Her My Love,” so be sure to check them out!

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The lyrics portray the feelings of a protagonist who reaches out to someone withdrawn and lonely, staying close and welcoming them with warmth.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

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I Want To Know What Love IsForeigner

Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is (Official Music Video)

I Want To Know What Love IsForeigner

“I Want To Know What Love Is” is a quintessential power ballad released by the rock band Foreigner in 1984.

The song’s appeal lies in its richly layered harmonies, and the addition of keyboards creates an even more expansive, weighty sound.

Rather than driving hard with distorted guitars, it stays focused on showcasing the vocals, making it a uniquely crafted track that’s well worth a listen.

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Mama, I’m Coming HomeOzzy Osbourne

OZZY OSBOURNE – “Mama, I’m Coming Home” (Official Video)

Mama, I'm Coming HomeOzzy Osbourne

Ozzy Osbourne is an iconic heavy metal band led by vocalist Ozzy Osbourne.

While many of their songs are intense, “Mama, I’m Coming Home” is a deeply sweet and bittersweet power ballad.

The nostalgic atmosphere created by the beautiful acoustic guitar tones blended with Ozzy Osbourne’s richly textured voice is irresistible.

Also pay attention to the powerful, intensifying band sound as the song builds toward the end!

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I Hate Everything About YouThree Days Grace

Three Days Grace – I Hate Everything About You (Official Video)

I Hate Everything About YouThree Days Grace

Hailing from Ontario, Canada, Three Days Grace is a band that has captivated listeners since their formation in 1997 with a wide-ranging sound that spans from alternative rock to nu metal.

Since their major-label debut in 2003, their songs—laying bare anger and anguish—have resonated with audiences worldwide, earning numerous No.

1 spots on the Billboard charts.

Their prowess has been widely recognized, including winning a rock category award at the 2006 Billboard Music Awards.

In 2024, original member Adam Gontier returned, and the band embarked on a new challenge with a twin-vocal setup alongside Matt Walst.

Their music, which channels inner turmoil and conflict through a powerful sound, is perfect for moments when you want to release pent-up emotions.

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