Breakup songs by Western bands. World-famous classics and popular tracks.

Don’t CryGuns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses – Don’t Cry

A power ballad released in 1991 by the Los Angeles hard rock band Guns N’ Roses.

Shannon Hoon, the former lead vocalist of Blind Melon, appears as a backing vocalist.

It’s a breakup song that has been covered by artists such as Mogwai and Iron Horse.

That’s What You GetParamore

Paramore: That’s What You Get [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Paramore is arguably the most popular rock band with a female lead vocalist.

This particular song became a hit not only in the United States but around the world, and it’s a rock breakup anthem highlighted by Hayley’s powerful vocals.

Love AgainPentatonix

[Official Video] Love Again – Pentatonix

It sings about how one’s sense of self unravels in the wake of heartbreak.

It forcefully asserts, “I’m not the one who’s wrong—the one who needs correcting is you.” Despite being performed by only five members, it has a volume and weight that defy that number.

As you can sense from the making-of footage, it portrays a slightly psychopathic kind of heartbreak in love.

Here With MeThe Killers

The Killers – Here With Me

Unusually for The Killers, who often feature husky vocals and concept-driven retro tracks, this song has a strong refreshing feel and includes many modern words like “cell phone.” The music video conveys the heartache of a breakup, so I recommend enjoying the song together with the visuals.

Skinny LoveBon Iver

Bon Iver – Skinny Love

This is a song by the American folk-rock band Bon Iver.

It’s included on the 2007 album “For Emma, Forever Ago.” The lyrics candidly capture the feelings at the moment a couple breaks up.

The wistful vocals are especially striking.