Top 2026 Rankings of Melancholic Western Songs

Wake Me Up When September EndsGreen Day57rank/position

Green Day – Wake Me Up When September Ends [Official Music Video] [4K Upgrade]

A deeply resonant ballad by the American punk rock band Green Day, perfect for the waning days of summer.

Featured on their 2004 album American Idiot and released as a single the following year, the song is based on Billie Joe Armstrong’s real-life experience of losing his father at the age of ten.

Lyrics like “seven years have gone so fast” and “twenty years have gone so fast” convey the passage of time and an unhealed sense of loss.

Starting with acoustic guitar and gradually building in weight, the arrangement beautifully traces the emotional journey of trying to recover from grief.

It’s a masterpiece that quietly accompanies moments when you want to spend twilight alone, or for those who have experienced the loss of someone dear.

One More TryGeorge Michael58rank/position

George Michael – One More Try

“One More Try” is a work by George Michael, formerly of the UK duo Wham!.

It was released as a single from the album Faith.

This ballad showcases George’s exceptional vocal ability and was released in 1988.

The lyrics convey a message to a lover with whom he has had a relationship that must be kept secret, saying he can no longer continue such a relationship.

All Out Of LoveAir Supply59rank/position

Air Supply – All Out Of Love (Official HD Video)

A pop ballad that sings of the sense of loss toward a loved one.

It was released in 1980 by the Australian soft rock duo Air Supply.

It is their only song to enter the UK top charts, peaking at No.

11.

TasteSabrina Carpenter60rank/position

Sabrina Carpenter – Taste (Official Video)

A song that transforms the pain of love into a refreshing sound.

Sabrina Carpenter from the United States delivers a provocative yet humorous message to her ex’s new partner.

Taken from the album “Short n’ Sweet,” the track incorporates elements of pop, glam pop, and pop rock for a richly textured sound.

The music video, released in August 2024, drew attention for her co-starring appearance with actress Jenna Ortega and shines with direction that effectively pays homage to horror films.

Passionate enough to rival the summer heat, this work sings positively about the complex emotions of romance, making it perfect for those looking to overcome heartbreak or power through the hot season with high spirits.

Talking to the MoonBruno Mars61rank/position

Bruno Mars – Talking To The Moon (Official Lyric Video)

This gem of a piano ballad by Hawaiian singer-songwriter Bruno Mars portrays the pain of heartbreak and longing for a loved one through a romantic theme of speaking to the moon.

Released in 2010 on the album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, it features a serene sound in the key of C minor at 73 BPM, with a poignant melody woven by his rich falsetto.

It was used as an insert song in the Brazilian TV drama Insensato Coração and topped the local charts for 22 consecutive weeks.

It’s a perfect track for solitary moments at dusk or quiet nights spent thinking of someone special.

Chasing PavementsAdele62rank/position

Adele – Chasing Pavements (Official Music Video)

This is a song included on the debut album 19 by British singer Adele.

Its lyrics are based on her own experience of being deceived by a boyfriend, and there’s also a story that the melody originated from a recording she made on her cell phone while walking.

Sung in her distinctive husky voice, it’s a bittersweet love song that asks, “Should I give up or should I keep chasing?”

Make You Feel My LoveAdele63rank/position

Adele – Make You Feel My Love (Official Video)

A heart-rending, emotionally resonant ballad filled with bittersweet feelings.

The delicate piano tones and Adele’s clear, pure vocals beautifully capture the ache of unrequited love.

It’s a moving song that makes the longing for someone you love well up in your chest.

Included on her 2008 debut album, 19, it has captured the hearts of many.

In Japan, it was also featured in a documentary about the Great East Japan Earthquake, offering encouragement to those affected.

It’s the perfect song for anyone troubled by love or overflowing with feelings for someone special.

Listening to this track might even give you the courage to share your feelings with that person.