Breakup songs in Western music that were hits in the '90s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
Heart-wrenching, lyrical melodies and lyrics are the allure of breakup songs.
This time, we’re introducing hits from the ’90s.
They’re Western songs, so pay attention to the lyrics, too.
It can be fun to look up the lyrics on a translation site.
Let’s paint the scenes from the literal Japanese translations.
Breakup songs in Western music that were hits in the ’90s: World-famous classics and popular tracks (1–10)
Un-Break My HeartToni Braxton
A quintessential ballad of the ’90s.
It has that wistful, unmistakably ’90s R&B vibe.
The emotional lyrics portray the anguish of being unable to accept the heartbreak of being told goodbye, and Tony’s powerful, punchy, overwhelming vocals deliver it in a way that will move you to tears.
End of The RoadBoyz II Men
A signature 90s R&B group, Boyz II Men’s 1992 single.
It spent 13 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It captures the feelings for an unforgettable person after a dead-end romance, delivered through beautiful harmonies.
My AllMariah Carey
This Latin-tinged ballad, released as the final single from the 1998 album “Butterfly,” became her 13th No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
Inspired by the culture she experienced in Puerto Rico, it sets a poignant longing for a separated lover against the sound of acoustic guitar.
From whispery lows to soaring highs in the finale, Mariah Carey’s delicate vocals shine throughout.
The monochrome music video directed by Herb Ritts is equally beautiful, with seaside and lighthouse imagery that enhances the song’s sensual world.
A heart-stirring classic ballad, perfect for nights when you can’t be with the one you love.
LovefoolCardigans
A big hit from 1995.
Many people probably remember it because it was used on the soundtrack of the film Romeo + Juliet.
The song expresses a desperate lament over a lover’s change of heart.
It’s one of those tracks whose catchy chorus you can’t help but hum along to.
Stay(I Missed You)Lisa Loeb
This song, used on the soundtrack of the 1994 film Reality Bites, became a smash hit.
It was Ethan Hawke—Lisa’s friend—who introduced the song to director Ben Stiller.
Many people also remember the music video he directed.
Never EverAll Saints
A signature song by the British girl group All Saints, who were active in the ’90s.
It reached number one on the charts in Australia and New Zealand.
The lyrics express the feelings of a girl who’s suddenly been dumped and is confused, asking, “What on earth was wrong with me?”
Foolish GamesJewel
A talented singer-songwriter with 30 million albums sold worldwide, Jewel released this single in 1995.
It reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100.
With few words, it vividly conveys the cold realization of being in love with love itself, born from a relationship where she feels no affection from her partner and is constantly hurt.
From the Bottom of My Broken HeartBritney Spears
A track from Britney’s debut album, “…Baby One More Time.” In this song about a first heartbreak, Britney, who emerged as a teen pop star, was recognized not just for her cuteness but for her expressive ability as a singer.
Don’t Wanna Lose You NowBackstreet Boys
A track from the Backstreet Boys—a popular boy band formed in 1993—featured on their third album, Millennium, released in 1999.
The song expresses a poignant feeling of being unable to accept a sudden breakup, constantly asking oneself what went wrong.
Not Gon’ CryMary J Blige
A track used on the soundtrack of the 1995 film “Waiting to Exhale.” It sings of a heart weary from a relationship with a controlling partner.
It reached No.
1 on Billboard’s R&B chart and earned Mary her third Grammy nomination, among other accolades.