Tear-jerking, moving songs in Western music

When your goneAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – When You’re Gone (Official Video)

It’s said to be one of Avril’s breakup songs, but depending on how you interpret it, it can also be taken as a song about losing someone important to you.

Even after that precious person is no longer right in front of you, the song powerfully expresses the enduring feelings you have for them, and Avril’s strong vocals resonate deeply in the chest.

It Will RainBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – It Will Rain (Official Music Video)

A heartbreak song by Bruno Mars, a singer sometimes called the second coming of Michael Jackson.

As you listen, the lyrics can feel rather sappy and pathetic, yet many lines pierce the heart.

His masterful word choice and overwhelming vocal prowess are truly awe-inspiring.

HurtChristina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera – Hurt (Official Video)

This song makes you realize that it’s not easy to get back what you’ve lost.

What really mattered, what truly made you happy.

It conveys that unbearable, irreparable feeling of having hurt someone, and Christina’s powerful vocals resonate deep in your chest.

Cry Me A RiverElla Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald – Cry me a river

“Cry Me A River,” a classic of jazz and blues.

In Japanese, its meaning is rendered as “tears become a river.” As you might imagine from that, it tells the story of someone whose breakup has turned into a big mess.

The weighty melody adds depth.

Goodbye Yellow Brick RoadElton John

Elton John – Goodbye Yellow Brick Road Lyrics

What kind of feelings do people who moved to Tokyo from the countryside have toward their hometowns? The song portrays someone who once longed for the big city and set out to accomplish something, but whose heart gradually drifts away from urban life.

I think many listeners can relate to the nostalgia for one’s hometown and the weariness that comes from city living.

The lyrics are a bit challenging.

Some may also recognize this track as the ending theme for the drama “The Sun Will Not Set,” starring Tackey.

You’re BeautifulJames Blunt

James Blunt – You’re Beautiful (Official Music Video) [4K]

This is a moving song about unrequited love by British singer-songwriter James Blunt.

Released in May 2005, it was inspired by his experience of unexpectedly seeing a former lover on the subway with a new partner.

Featured on the album “Back to Bedlam,” it became a major hit, reaching number one in 13 countries worldwide.

In Japan, it was used as an insert song for the Fuji TV drama “Kobayakawa Nobuki no Koi” and as a commercial song for the Toyota Vitz.

Although it may sound romantic at first, it actually conveys bittersweet feelings and complex emotions, resonating deeply with those who have experienced heartbreak or parting.

You & IJohn Legend

John Legend – You & I (Nobody in the World) (Official Video)

A tastefully crafted song suffused with sorrow and wistfulness naturally brings tears to your eyes.

It’s a deeply moving, cry-your-heart-out track by John Legend, where the grand message and high-level vocal approach truly shine.

Since it’s in English, be sure to pay attention to the lyrics and look them up.