[2026] Western breakup songs: tear-jerking tracks to listen to when love ends

I Miss You, I’m SorryGracie Abrams

Gracie Abrams – I Love You, I’m Sorry (Official Music Video)

Gracie Abrams, a singer-songwriter whose delicate vocals resonate with many, is the daughter of film director J.J.

Abrams.

Known for joining Taylor Swift’s tour, she released a ballad in April 2020 that I’d like to introduce.

Featured on her debut EP Minor, the track is marked by a quiet soundscape woven from piano and strings.

It portrays complex emotions—longing for an ex while feeling guilty for ending the relationship.

It also gained attention for being used in season 2 of the Netflix series Ginny & Georgia.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night, gently comforting anyone hesitating over whether to reach out to a former lover.

Year of TroubleStella Donnelly

Stella Donnelly – Year of Trouble (Official Lyric Video)

Stella Donnelly, originally from Wales and now based in Australia, is acclaimed for her sharp social insights and witty songwriting.

Released in October 2025, this single—forming the core of her album “Love and Fortune”—is a touching ballad performed in a stripped-down, piano-only singer-songwriter style.

The irony characteristic of her earlier work recedes into the background, and lyrics that candidly acknowledge heartbreak and her own shortcomings are sure to tug at listeners’ hearts.

The song is also known for its use in Season 2 of the Apple TV+ drama “The Buccaneers.” It’s the perfect track for a quiet night alone, when you want to face your vulnerabilities and let the tears flow.

Elderberry WineWednesday

Wednesday – Elderberry Wine (Official Video)

Wednesday are an indie rock band from Asheville, North Carolina.

Among their songs, where Karly Hartzman’s vocals leave a strong impression, this one aches with the premonition of heartbreak.

Released as a single in May 2025, it drew attention as a lead track from the album “Bleeds.” Just as a sweet fruit liqueur can become poisonous if mishandled, this song reminds us that relationships with the ones we love are fragile and easily hurt.

You can feel the raw pain that only someone who has experienced a breakup can express.

Many listeners will identify with the lyrics, where beautiful memories intersect with the fear of everything falling apart.

When you want to quietly reflect on a love that has ended, give it a listen.

My heart will go onCéline Dion

Céline Dion – My Heart Will Go On (from the 2007 DVD “Live In Las Vegas – A New Day…”)

The theme song from Titanic, a film that became a worldwide hit.

When talking about Titanic, I think this song is absolutely indispensable.

Celine’s heartrending vocals and the beauty of the arrangement—everything about it is wonderful.

It makes me want to watch Titanic again.

PayphoneMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Payphone ft. Wiz Khalifa (Explicit) (Official Music Video)

It’s a song about a man who’s been told goodbye by a woman.

The tune itself is upbeat and gets you hyped when you listen to it, but when you look at the lyrics in Japanese, they portray a man who still hasn’t let go, making it a poignant, heartrending track.