Here’s a list of classic Western songs about “regret.”
The genres vary—love, friendship, and regrets about the past.
As is often the case with Western music, the lyrics in each track feel disarmingly straightforward, almost awkwardly sincere.
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Classic Western songs about regret. Recommended popular tracks (1–10)
HelloAdele
A ballad that sings about a woman’s regret and heartache as she tries to get in touch with her former lover.
It was released in 2015 by the British singer Adele.
The music video garnered over 27.7 million views within 24 hours of its release.
Your Wildest DreamsThe Moody Blues
A track about someone who ran away from a relationship.
It was released in 1986 by the British progressive rock band The Moody Blues.
With a nostalgic atmosphere, the track was followed in 1988 by a sequel, “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere.”
SorryJustin Bieber
A track that sings about a man who takes full responsibility and asks his lover for a second chance.
Released in 2015 by Canadian singer Justin Bieber, it reached No.
1 on charts around the world.
The track features a tropical house beat.
Sorry For The Stupid ThingsBabyface
A track by American R&B singer-songwriter Babyface.
It tells the story of a man who admits he was foolish and apologizes to his lover.
Released in 2005, it reached No.
3 on the U.S.
charts and is included on the album Grown & Sexy.
Help Me Hold OnTravis Tritt
A track that sings about feelings of despair and regret toward a lover who’s packing their suitcase and about to leave.
It was released in 1990 by American country music artist Travis Tritt and reached No.
1 on the charts in the United States and Canada.
What I’ve DoneLinkin Park
A track released in 2007 by the American rock band Linkin Park.
It was used in works such as the science fiction film Transformers and reached the Top 10 on charts around the world.
The track conveys a message about acknowledging past mistakes and striving to improve one’s life.
SorryTyler Royale
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.