Our Top 20 Ballads Of All Time
Top 20 Ballads of All Time
If you're a singer or musician performing at weddings and events then the ballad is surely one of your most important song styles. We've put together a list of our top 20 ballads of all time featuring some of the most iconic artists ever to grace the music industry. We hope this list inspires you to try some of these great ballads on your up coming performances and you're able to make a lasting memory for both the couples and their guests.
1. "I Will Always Love You" – Whitney Houston
Originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1973, Whitney Houston’s 1992 rendition for The Bodyguard soundtrack redefined the song as a soaring, emotional anthem. Houston’s powerful interpretation, particularly the breathtaking key change, became a hallmark of vocal excellence. The song won multiple awards and remains one of the best-selling singles by a female artist, showcasing her unmatched vocal prowess and emotional depth.
2. "My Heart Will Go On" – Celine Dion
This sweeping ballad became the theme for the blockbuster film Titanic in 1997. Initially reluctant to record it, Celine Dion eventually created one of her most iconic performances. With its dramatic orchestration and poignant lyrics, the song perfectly captured the epic romance of the film. It became a global phenomenon, cementing Dion as the queen of timeless love songs.
3. "Hero" – Mariah Carey
Written by Mariah Carey and Walter Afanasieff, "Hero" is an empowering anthem that has inspired listeners since its release in 1993. Initially written for another artist, Mariah realised its profound personal meaning and decided to keep it for herself. The song’s message of inner strength and resilience resonated universally, making it one of her signature hits.
4. "Unchained Melody" – The Righteous Brothers
This 1965 classic, performed by Bobby Hatfield and Bill Medley, became a timeless love song thanks to its stirring melody and Hatfield’s emotional delivery. Originally written for a film in 1955, the song found renewed popularity decades later when it featured in the movie Ghost (1990). Its haunting beauty and enduring themes of longing and devotion have made it one of the most covered songs in music history.
5. "Endless Love" – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie
A collaboration between two Motown legends, this 1981 duet is one of the most romantic songs ever recorded. Written by Richie, the track spent nine weeks at the top of the Billboard charts. Its heartfelt lyrics and lush production capture the essence of eternal love, making it a favourite for weddings and special occasions.
6. "Wind Beneath My Wings" – Bette Midler
First recorded by several artists in the 1980s, Bette Midler’s version for the film Beaches (1988) became the definitive rendition. The song celebrates the unsung heroes in our lives and won multiple Grammys, including Record of the Year. Its universal appeal and emotional resonance have made it a go-to tribute song for honouring loved ones.
7. "Someone Like You" – Adele
This heartbreaking ballad from Adele’s 2011 album 21 explores the raw pain of unrequited love. Written after a devastating breakup, Adele’s stripped-down performance, accompanied by a simple piano arrangement, highlights her soulful voice and emotional authenticity. Its universal themes of loss and acceptance struck a chord with listeners worldwide.
8. "Nothing Compares 2 U" – Sinéad O'Connor
Written by Prince, this 1990 hit became Sinéad O'Connor’s biggest success. Her minimalist arrangement and intensely emotional delivery, particularly in the iconic music video, turned the song into a cultural phenomenon. Its stark simplicity and vulnerability resonated with millions, making it a landmark ballad.
9. "The Power of Love" – Celine Dion
This emotional powerhouse was first recorded by Jennifer Rush, but Celine Dion’s 1993 version brought the song to global acclaim. Her soaring vocals and the song’s dramatic orchestration showcase Dion’s incredible range and emotional expressiveness. The song became a symbol of romantic devotion and remains one of her most beloved hits.
10. "Open Arms" – Journey
Journey’s lead singer, Steve Perry, delivered one of rock’s most iconic ballads with this heartfelt track. Released in 1982, "Open Arms" tells a story of love and reconciliation. Initially met with skepticism by band members, it became a massive hit and a staple of romantic playlists, thanks to its tender lyrics and Perry’s passionate vocals.
11. "I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing" – Aerosmith
This grand ballad was written by Diane Warren for the movie Armageddon (1998) and became Aerosmith’s first No. 1 hit. Steven Tyler’s emotive delivery and the song’s cinematic production made it an instant classic. It remains a defining moment in the band’s career, blending rock and romance seamlessly.
12. "All By Myself" – Eric Carmen
Inspired by Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, Eric Carmen crafted this dramatic ballad in 1975. The song’s lush orchestration and melancholic lyrics about loneliness struck a chord with listeners. Celine Dion later brought the song back into the spotlight with her powerful cover in 1996.
13. "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)" – Phil Collins
Written during a difficult breakup, this 1984 ballad became one of Phil Collins’ most emotionally raw songs. Its inclusion in the film Against All Odds added to its popularity, while Collins’ heartfelt delivery and the song’s poignant lyrics made it a favorite for those navigating heartbreak.
14. "Hello" – Lionel Richie
Released in 1984, Lionel Richie’s "Hello" is a soulful declaration of love. Its music video, featuring the story of unrequited affection, became iconic. Richie’s smooth vocals and the song’s touching lyrics ensured its place as one of the most romantic songs of the decade.
15. "Every Breath You Take" – The Police
Often mistaken for a love song, this 1983 hit explores themes of obsession and surveillance. Sting’s haunting lyrics and the song’s minimalist arrangement made it both eerie and captivating. It remains one of the most played songs on radio and a complex masterpiece of balladry.
16. "Make You Feel My Love" – Adele
Originally written by Bob Dylan, Adele’s 2008 version of this tender ballad brought it to a new generation. Her soulful interpretation, paired with the song’s understated beauty, has made it one of her most cherished recordings. Its lyrics, promising unconditional love, resonate universally.
17. "Because You Loved Me" – Celine Dion
Written by Diane Warren, this song became the theme for the film Up Close and Personal in 1996. Dion’s soaring performance captures the gratitude and love expressed in the lyrics. It became a favourite for expressing appreciation to loved ones and a signature moment in Dion’s career.
18. "Let It Be" – The Beatles
Paul McCartney wrote this spiritual ballad as a tribute to his late mother. Released in 1970, its gospel-inspired melody and comforting lyrics brought hope to listeners during turbulent times. "Let It Be" remains one of The Beatles’ most iconic and universally loved songs.
19. "Without You" – Mariah Carey
This heart-wrenching ballad, originally by Badfinger, found new life in Mariah Carey’s 1994 rendition. Her soaring vocals and emotive delivery turned it into a global hit. The song’s themes of loss and longing have made it a timeless favourite.
20. "You Are So Beautiful" – Joe Cocker
Co-written by Billy Preston, this simple yet profound love song became a signature hit for Joe Cocker in 1974. His raw, soulful performance captures the heartfelt sincerity of the lyrics, making it an enduring classic that continues to move audiences.
Each of these ballads stands as a testament to the power of music to evoke deep emotion and connect with listeners on a personal level.
