The 40 Greatest Power Ballads of All Time

What defines a power ballad? The essence of this genre can be summed up as a ballad with the force and intensity to move your soul. It’s a song that evokes deep emotions, whether through its heart-wrenching lyrics or its powerful melodies. In this list, we’ve carefully chosen and ranked the 40 best power ballads of all time, taking into account their ability to surge, soar, convey sincerity, balance fluffiness, and, yes, deliver a dose of cheese.

Table of Contents

The Criteria

To compile this list, we employed five key criteria:

The Surge

This category, also known as “The Crunch,” assesses a song’s ability to start gently and then erupt with the force of a tsunami when you least expect it.

The Soar

We evaluated whether a song can elevate the listener’s spirit like an eagle taking flight or if it meanders like a penguin.

The Sincerity

Sincerity is the hallmark of a great power ballad. We sought songs that are gut-wrenching, tear-drenched, hyper-emotional, and agonizing, ideally stemming from a shattered heart.

The Fluffiness

While the surge and soar are essential, they need to be balanced with some fluffiness, providing a soft counterpoint to the power.

The Cheese

This relates to over-the-top lyrics delivered in a pleading, often tormented manner. It’s the aspect that can make a power ballad unforgettable.

We applied these criteria meticulously to bring you the definitive list of the 40 greatest power ballads. To maintain diversity, no band has more than one entry, ensuring a wide range of styles and interpretations. While some classic power ballad candidates like Queen, Celine Dion, and Michael Bolton didn’t make the cut, you’re sure to find a treasure trove of powerful ballads that span generations and genres.

So, let’s dive into the emotional rollercoaster of these timeless classics.

40. Badfinger – “Without You” (1970)

You might be more familiar with Harry Nilsson’s rendition, but Badfinger’s original version is equally haunting and rockier than expected. The sparse, haunting melody makes this a standout power ballad.

Choice lyric: “I can’t live, if living is without you.”

39. Eric Carmen – “All By Myself” (1976)

Sweeping and orchestral, Eric Carmen’s “All By Myself” captivates with mega-melancholic vocals. It’s interesting to note that this song is based on a piece by Russian classical composer Serge Rachmaninoff.

Choice lyric: “I think of all the friends I’ve known, but when I dial the telephone, nobody’s home.”

38. Bryan Adams – “Heaven” (1985)

Bryan Adams shines with “Heaven,” featuring a rough-edged vocal performance that lends authenticity to the lyrics. The B-side of this power ballad even pays tribute to Princess Diana.

Choice lyric: “I’m findin’ it hard to believe we’re in Heaven.”

37. Boston – “Amanda” (1986)

“Amanda” by Boston is a sweet and majestic power ballad with powerful guitar-driven choruses. Surprisingly, it was a No.1 single in the US but didn’t chart in the UK, showcasing the diverse tastes on both sides of the Atlantic.

Choice lyric: “I don’t want to waste my whole night through to say… I’m in love with you.”

36. Queensrÿche – “Silent Lucidity” (1990)

Queensrÿche proves that prog rock can deliver a power ballad with “Silent Lucidity.” This magnificently melodic track escalates dramatically after a velvety opening, creating a unique blend of art-rock and emotion.

Choice lyric: “I am smiling next to you, in silent lucidity.”

35. Winger – “Miles Away” (1990)

Winger’s “Miles Away” is a wistful power ballad that tugs at the heartstrings. Interestingly, it became the theme tune for relatives of servicemen involved in the Gulf War, showing the song’s emotional resonance during challenging times.

Choice lyric: “Sometimes, just for a moment, I reach out, hope you’re still there.”

34. Alias – “More Than Words Can Say” (1990)

With a couple of extra words, Alias would share a title with an Extreme song, but the addition of “Can” and “Say” transforms it into a heartfelt ballad with yearning vocals and a lush arrangement.

Choice lyric: “I need you now, before I lose my mind.”

33. The Darkness – “Love Is Only A Feeling” (2003)

The Darkness takes the power ballad formula and flips it on its head with “Love Is Only A Feeling.” This song kicks off with pounding drums and a classic rock riff before transitioning into a more tender, bouzouki-strummed ending.

Choice lyric: “The state of elation that this unison of hearts achieved, I had seen, I had touched, I had tasted, and I truly believed.”

32. Quarterflash – “Harden My Heart” (1982)

Quarterflash’s “Harden My Heart” combines glossy rock and lush synth-pop, with Rindy Ross’s husky, soulful vocals adding a unique flavor to this power ballad.

Choice lyric: “I’m gonna harden my heart, I’m gonna swallow my tears.”

31. Cinderella – “Don’t Know What You Got (Til It’s Gone)” (1988)

Cinderella’s “Don’t Know What You Got (Til It’s Gone)” stands out with its thumping keyboards, tortured vocals, and a chorus that leaves a lasting impact. The song often segues into another massive slow ballad, “Nobody’s Fool,” during live performances.

Choice lyric: “I hear you calling, far away, tearing through my soul. I just can’t take another day.”

30. Warrant – “Heaven” (1989)

“Heaven” by Warrant, despite its slushy sentiment, reached No.2 on the US chart. It’s a testament to the power of a well-executed power ballad, even when it comes from an album titled “Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich.”

Choice lyric: “I don’t need to be the king of the world, as long as I’m the hero of this little girl.”

29. Thunder – “Love Walked In” (1990)

“Love Walked In” by Thunder represents power balladry with British spirit. This track, unlike many on the list, maintains a more rock-oriented, less glossy sound. It features a huge, strutting chorus but leans less on sensuality.

Choice lyric: “I sleep so much better now I’m not alone.”

28. Europe – “Carrie” (1986)

“Carrie” by Europe might be seen as corny, but it captured the hearts of many, reaching No.3 in the US chart. David Coverdale should have looked no further than Europe’s “The Final Countdown” album when searching for his own “Carrie.”

Choice lyric: “Carrie, Carrie, things they change my friend.”

27. The Rolling Stones – “Angie” (1973)

The Rolling Stones put aside their rock ‘n’ roll swagger for a moment with “Angie.” Its lilting melody and Mick Jagger’s soulful vocals give it a ballad-like quality, making it a standout in their catalog.

Choice lyric: “With no lovin’ in our souls and no money in our coats, you can’t say we’re satisfied.”

26. 38 Special – “Second Chance” (1989)

“Second Chance” by .38 Special is a classic power ballad that has a bit of a country feel to it. It’s soul-stirring and features a memorable, sing-along chorus.

Choice lyric: “If I promise not to say a word, would you promise not to never heard it.”

25. Starship – “Sara” (1985)

“Sarah” by Starship exudes pop-ballad power, courtesy of vocalist Mickey Thomas. This song brought a big dose of sentiment to an era characterized by big hair, big drums, and big synthesizers.

Choice lyric: “Sara, you’re the poet in my heart. Never change, never stop.”

24. Boston – “More Than a Feeling” (1976)

“More Than a Feeling” by Boston embodies the soaring spirit of the power ballad genre. It’s a staple of classic rock radio and resonates with listeners through its timeless melody.

Choice lyric: “I looked out this morning and the sun was gone. Turned on some music to start my day.”

23. Aerosmith – “Crazy” (1993)

Aerosmith knows how to create a power ballad, and “Crazy” is no exception. With its bluesy rock vibe, it’s a love song with attitude, featuring the harmonious vocals of Steven Tyler and Alicia Silverstone in the music video.

Choice lyric: “Crazy, baby, I go crazy. You turn it on, then you’re gone. Yeah, you drive me crazy.”

22. Poison – “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” (1988)

Poison’s “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” is a power ballad classic, featuring Brett Michaels’ heartfelt vocals. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of these songs that it remains a crowd-pleaser at concerts.

Choice lyric: “Though it’s been a while now, I can still feel so much pain.”

21. REO Speedwagon – “Can’t Fight This Feeling” (1984)

REO Speedwagon’s “Can’t Fight This Feeling” is a deeply sincere and heart-wrenching power ballad. It’s a masterclass in evoking emotion and vulnerability through music.

Choice lyric: “And I can’t fight this feeling anymore. I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for.”

20. Survivor – “Is This Love” (1986)

Survivor’s “Is This Love” is more than just a hit from “The Karate Kid” soundtrack. It’s a powerful love ballad that showcases the band’s ability to tug at the heartstrings.

Choice lyric: “Is this love that I’m feeling, is this the love that I’ve been searching for?”

19. Extreme – “More Than Words” (1990)

“More Than Words” by Extreme is a song with the power to silence a room with its sheer emotion. It demonstrates how less can be more in a power ballad when the vocals are as expressive as Nuno Bettencourt’s and Gary Cherone’s.

Choice lyric: “Saying ‘I love you’ is not the words I want to hear from you. It’s not that I want you, not to say, but if you only knew how easy it would be to show me how you feel.”

18. Billy Idol – “Eyes Without A Face” (1984)

Billy Idol’s “Eyes Without a Face” takes a dark, cinematic approach to the power ballad. With haunting synths and brooding vocals, it stands out among the genre’s lighter fare.

Choice lyric: “I spend so much time believing all the lies, to keep the dream alive.”

17. Skid Row – “I Remember You” (1989)

“I Remember You” by Skid Row is a tender yet intense power ballad. It showcases Sebastian Bach’s exceptional vocal range and creates a lasting impact with its evocative lyrics.

Choice lyric: “I remember you, through the sleepless nights. Through every endless day. I’d wanna hear you say, ‘I remember you.'”

16. The Scorpions – “Still Loving You” (1984)

The Scorpions know how to craft a power ballad, and “Still Loving You” is their pièce de résistance. With its gradual build-up and Klaus Meine’s impassioned vocals, it’s a standout in the genre.

Choice lyric: “Time, it needs time to win back your love again. I will be there, I will be there. Love, only love can bring back your love someday. I will be there, I will be there.”

15. Def Leppard – “Love Bites” (1987)

“Love Bites” by Def Leppard is a stadium-ready power ballad. With its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics, it’s an essential track in the power ballad canon.

Choice lyric: “When you make love, do you look in the mirror? Who do you think of? Does he look like me?”

14. Foreigner – “I Want to Know What Love Is” (1984)

Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is” stands out as a deeply emotional and soul-stirring power ballad. It’s a testament to the band’s versatility in shifting from rock to balladry.

Choice lyric: “In my life, there’s been heartache and pain. I don’t know if I can face it again.”

13. Journey – “Open Arms” (1981)

Journey’s “Open Arms” is a masterclass in rock balladry. With Steve Perry’s powerful vocals leading the way, it’s a song that can melt even the coldest of hearts.

Choice lyric: “So now I come to you with open arms. Nothing to hide, believe what I say.”

12. Kansas – “Dust in the Wind” (1977)

“Dust in the Wind” by Kansas is an iconic power ballad with a folk-rock edge. Its philosophical lyrics and soft acoustic guitar make it a standout in the genre.

Choice lyric: “All we do crumbles to the ground, though we refuse to see. Dust in the wind, all we are is dust in the wind.”

11. Metallica – “The Unforgiven” (1991)

Metallica’s “The Unforgiven” showcases the band’s ability to deliver a power ballad with a heavy edge. It’s a powerful and emotionally charged track that adds depth to the band’s discography.

Choice lyric: “You labeled me, I’ll label you. So I dub thee unforgiven.”

10. The Police – “Every Breath You Take” (1983)

“The Police” may not be the first band that comes to mind when you think of power ballads, but “Every Breath You Take” is undoubtedly one. Its haunting melody and stalker-ish lyrics make it unforgettable.

Choice lyric: “Every single day. And every word you say. Every game you play, every night you stay. I’ll be watching you.”

9. REO Speedwagon – “Keep On Loving You” (1980)

REO Speedwagon’s “Keep On Loving You” is a quintessential power ballad. It’s got all the right ingredients: heartfelt lyrics, a powerful chorus, and Kevin Cronin’s emotive vocals.

Choice lyric: “And I’m gonna keep on loving you. ‘Cause it’s the only thing I wanna do.”

8. Led Zeppelin – “Stairway to Heaven” (1971)

“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin is an epic rock ballad that’s achieved legendary status. Its timeless appeal and memorable guitar riffs have solidified its place in the rock pantheon.

Choice lyric: “There’s a lady who’s sure all that glitters is gold, and she’s buying a stairway to heaven.”

7. Nazareth – “Love Hurts” (1975)

Nazareth’s “Love Hurts” is a power ballad with a distinct bluesy edge. Dan McCafferty’s raspy vocals add a unique flavor to this classic song.

Choice lyric: “Love is like a flame, it burns you when it’s hot. Love hurts.”

6. Bon Jovi – “I’ll Be There for You” (1989)

Bon Jovi has no shortage of anthemic ballads in their catalog, and “I’ll Be There for You” is a standout. It’s an emotionally charged song that’s become a fan favorite.

Choice lyric: “I’ll be there for you, these five words I swear to you. When you breathe, I want to be the air for you.”

5. Guns N’ Roses – “Sweet Child o’ Mine” (1987)

Guns N’ Roses took a departure from their hard rock sound with “Sweet Child o’ Mine.” It’s a love song wrapped in rock ‘n’ roll, with one of the most iconic guitar riffs in the genre.

Choice lyric: “She’s got a smile that it seems to me reminds me of childhood memories.”

4. U2 – “With or Without You” (1987)

U2’s “With or Without You” is an emotionally charged rock ballad. Bono’s passionate vocals and the song’s atmospheric sound make it a classic in the genre.

Choice lyric: “With or without you, with or without you, I can’t live, with or without you.”

3. Heart – “Alone” (1987)

Heart’s “Alone” is a power ballad that’s filled with Ann Wilson’s powerful vocals. It’s a song that beautifully captures the agony and ecstasy of love.

Choice lyric: “Till now, I always got by on my own. I never really cared until I met you.”

2. Journey – “Don’t Stop Believin'” (1981)

Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” is more than just a power ballad; it’s an anthem. With its uplifting message and unforgettable melody, it’s a song that continues to inspire.

Choice lyric: “Don’t stop believin’, hold on to that feelin’.”

1. Queen – “Bohemian Rhapsody” (1975)

Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a rock opera in miniature, seamlessly weaving together elements of rock, balladry, and opera. Its iconic status and timeless appeal make it the quintessential power ballad.

Choice lyric: “Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?”

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Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com