What is a ballad?

A ballad is a form of narrative poetry or song that tells a story in a simple and direct manner. It typically has a repeated refrain or chorus, and often deals with themes of love, loss, heroism, or tragedy. Ballads have been a popular form of storytelling in many cultures for centuries and are often passed down through oral tradition. In music, a ballad refers to a slow, sentimental song, often with emotional lyrics and a melodic tune.