[2026] Tearjerker love songs by Western bands: A roundup of recommended popular tracks

Still Loving YouScorpions

Scorpions – Still Loving You (Official Video)

They are Scorpions, a German metal band.

They have embodied the hard rock movement of the 1970s and the heavy metal movement of the 1980s.

Their genre classification varies depending on the person, but it’s fair to think of them as an LA metal or hard rock band.

Many hard rock and metal bands have released love songs, and their melodies are delicately beautiful.

Kiss MeSixpence None The Richer

Sixpence None The Richer – Kiss Me (Official HQ)

Sixpence None the Richer is a rock band formed in Texas, USA.

Their songs are sometimes used as wedding standards.

The lively intro featuring electric and acoustic guitars is great.

It seems a Japanese-language version of the same song has also been released in Japan, so why not give that a listen as well?

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (Official HD Video)

A pop ballad about aching love propelled America’s Backstreet Boys to global stardom.

Released in April 1999, the song reached No.

1 on the charts in more than 25 countries and earned an impressive three Grammy nominations.

While the lyrics are ambiguous, its beautiful melody and the group’s exquisite five-part harmonies are sure to soothe anyone struggling with love.

It was featured in a Samsung Electronics commercial in 2021, and even after more than 20 years, its appeal remains undiminished.

Highly recommended for those dealing with heartbreak or long-distance relationships.

Hard To Say I’m SorryCHICAGO

Chicago – Hard To Say I’m Sorry (Official Music Video)

This is a signature work by the American brass-rock band Chicago, depicting the pain of heartbreak alongside an elegant piano melody.

Released in September 1982 and produced by David Foster, the song elevates the rich musicality of the brass section into a pop arrangement.

It topped the U.S.

singles chart for two consecutive weeks.

Chosen as the ending theme for the film “Blue Lovers,” it also became familiar in Japan as a commercial song for Osaka Gas and Toyota.

The lyrics portray a man who, after being told goodbye by his lover, regrets his past behavior—feelings that many listeners can surely empathize with.

Next To MeImagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons – Next To Me

A heartwarming love song by the American band Imagine Dragons.

While acknowledging his own flaws and mistakes, the singer expresses gratitude to a partner who always stays by his side.

Released in February 2018, it was included in the reissue of the album Evolve.

Garnering attention as the band’s first full-fledged love song, it also drew buzz for its music video.

Exploring the complexity of human relationships and the power of love, this track resonates with empathy and emotion.

It’s recommended for those who want to reaffirm their bond with someone special or are looking for a warm, heartfelt song that speaks to the soul.

VALENTINEMåneskin

Måneskin – VALENTINE

The song released in November 2023 by the Italian four-piece rock band Måneskin is a dramatic rock ballad that poignantly sings of aching love.

The protagonist’s feelings—hopelessly devoted to the other person—resonate deeply alongside the lyrical melody.

Released as the second single from the album ‘Rush! (Are U Coming?)’, it also drew attention for its striking black-and-white music video.

Brimming with Måneskin’s appeal, this track is one that stays close to the hearts of those troubled by love.

It might be nice to listen to it with someone special and reaffirm each other’s feelings.

Somebody ElseThe 1975

The 1975 – Somebody Else (Official Video)

A gem of a love song that portrays the end of a passionate romance and the struggle of entering a new relationship.

Released in February 2016 by the British band The 1975, this track delicately expresses lingering attachment and jealousy toward a former lover.

Its sound, reminiscent of 80s synth-pop, and Matty Healy’s emotive vocals strike a deep chord.

Included on the album “I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It,” it was also featured in the film “The Edge of Seventeen.” It’s a perfect choice for soothing the pain of heartbreak or for anyone wrestling with complex romantic feelings.