Tear-jerking Western breakup songs: recommended classics and popular hits

i miss you (come back home)monifah feat. heavy d

I Miss You (Come Back Home)

This classic love song blends a tight, matte track with Heavy D’s cool rap and Monifah’s gentle vocals.

It’s a tearjerker, portraying a poignant world where the lingering love for someone fading into memory is expressed with aching intensity—a masterpiece from the dawn of R&B.

Ex’s & Oh’sElle King

Elle King – Ex’s & Oh’s (Official Video)

A 28-year-old born in Los Angeles, California, she’s gaining the spotlight with this track that has a sound reminiscent of Amy Winehouse.

The song conveys a message that, although her ex now dislikes her, she’s ready to put an end to the hurt and move on.

Ugly HeartG.R.L.

G.R.L. – Ugly Heart (Official Video)

G.R.L., who lost one member and are now performing as a trio, had this song that became popular, even being used in TV dramas.

It’s a breakup song themed around a woman who was treated badly by a good-looking man.

The message seems to be encouraging people to look for someone who truly loves them from the heart, rather than choosing based on appearance.

Someone You LovedLewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi – Someone You Loved

This is a heartbreak song marked by a poignant piano melody and moving vocals.

The lyrics convey the sorrow and loneliness of losing a loved one, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in May 2019, the track became one of Lewis Capaldi’s signature songs and a massive hit, charting in over 29 countries worldwide.

It’s a recommended listen when you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak or immerse yourself in the grief of losing someone dear.

Capaldi’s soulful voice will stay close to your heart and bring you comfort.

DeadMadison Beer

Madison Beer – Dead (Official Video)

Madison Beer is a newcomer singer discovered by Justin Bieber.

While they were dating, she used to say, “I can’t live without you,” but after they broke up, the lyrics address a lover who seems fine without her, asking, “Why are you still alive?” According to Madison, she wanted to express it with a bit of wordplay.

Without YouNilsson

Nilsson (Nirson) Without You

A smash hit featured on American singer Harry Nilsson’s 1971 album Nilsson Schmilsson, released under the name Nilsson, which was certified Gold in 1972.

The original was by the British four-piece band Badfinger, and it was later covered by Mariah Carey.

Running LowShawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes – Running Low (Official Audio)

Shawn Mendes, a singer-songwriter from Canada, became an overnight sensation after videos he posted on YouTube gained popularity.

He’s even been called the second Justin Bieber.

In this song, he seems to convey the message that, because he couldn’t be there for the person he was dating, they might be better off with someone else.