Classic Western songs about regret. Recommended popular tracks.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)

Oasis is a hugely popular band often called the second coming of the Beatles, and this particular song is so famous that many people recognize it even if they don’t know the title.

When you listen to the lyrics, the song takes on even more depth, so I recommend taking the time to focus on the words and enjoy it.

If I Could Turn Back TimeCher

Cher – If I Could Turn Back Time

A track produced by Diane Warren, who has also worked on songs for artists like Aretha Franklin and Celine Dion.

It sings about regret for every word and action that hurt a lover.

It was released in 1989 by Cher, the American singer and actress.

RegretNew Order

New Order – Regret (Official Music Video)

A track released in 1993 by the British alternative rock band New Order.

It became a hit worldwide and reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

Inspired by the difficulty celebrities face in maintaining a normal life, it has been covered by acts such as The Get Up Kids.

BreakdownSeether

Seether – Breakdown

A track released in 2008 by Seether, a South African rock band.

It’s a lament inspired by the breakup between lead vocalist Shaun Morgan and his girlfriend, Amy Lee of Evanescence.

I Still Believe In YouVince Gill

Vince Gill – I Still Believe In You (Official Music Video)

A track released in 1992 by Vince Gill, an American country music singer-songwriter.

The song expresses regret and an apology for being self-centered and not spending enough time with his partner.

It has been covered by artists such as Chris Doran.

SorryTyler Royale

Sorry

This is a song by Tyler Royale, a singer-songwriter from Atlanta who has been immersed in music since the age of nine.

Released in June 2020, the track is an R&B number that expresses apology and regret toward a former lover.

Even while knowing she can no longer convey her feelings, the painful emotions she still holds for that person are rendered through her deep, soulful vocals, tightening the listener’s chest.

As you listen to the wistful melody, you can almost see the protagonist regretting her mistakes.

Hearing this poignant track might inspire you to be honest with your feelings and express them to someone you cherish, so you won’t have any regrets again.

Lover, You Should’ve Come OverJeff Buckley

Jeff Buckley – Lover, You Should’ve Come Over (Official Video)

This is an achingly beautiful soul ballad left behind by the legendary American singer Jeff Buckley, who died far too young at 30.

It sings of the helpless regret and burning longing after a breakup.

If you’ve ever let go of someone precious because of youthful mistakes, you’ll likely find this song deeply relatable.

Wishing “I wanted you to come see me,” only to realize it’s too late—those feelings with nowhere to go are truly painful.

The track appears on the classic album Grace and was also featured in the drama FlashForward.

Even decades after its August 1994 release, it continues to move hearts.

On a quiet night when you want to be alone with your thoughts, you might let yourself sink into this heavenly voice.