Tear-jerking Western songs: recommended classics and popular tracks

As Tears Go By (1987)Marianne Faithfull

Marianne Faithfull – As Tears Go By (Official Music Video)

This track is a self-cover, a fresh recording of a hit number from her days as a British idol in the 1960s.

Back then Marianne Faithfull was known for her delicate, “angelic” voice, but after struggles with drugs and alcohol, by the time of this re-recording her voice had transformed into a gritty, powerful rasp.

Her current performances, which convey the depth of a life fully lived, have been highly acclaimed.

Exogenesis Symphony Part3Muse

Muse: Exogenesis Symphony Part III – HD – Redemption (video oficial)

It’s a masterpiece whose grand scale is truly moving.

From a quiet intro, the sound expands dramatically, sparking listeners’ imaginations and weaving countless stories.

The piece also became widely known through an animated work by Tekken, a comedian who is also active as an illustrator.

It suggests that stories touching on the joys and sorrows of life—those that strike a chord in the heart—resonate universally, transcending East and West.

Someone Like YouAdele

Adele – Someone Like You (Official Music Video)

It feels like a heartbreak song.

Be warned: the moment you hear Adele’s voice at the start, the tears will start to flow.

The painfully bittersweet melody and the lyrics really sink in.

When the chorus hits, the tears are sure to fall.

Cryin’Aerosmith

Aerosmith – Cryin’

This song is about a couple who chooses to break up, crying out their final feelings for each other.

It’s a grand rock ballad, and just listening to Tyler’s high, soaring vocals is moving.

The repeated “Cryin’” in the lyrics is incredibly emotional.

alwaysBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – Always (Official Music Video)

It’s a sublime love ballad by the rock band Bon Jovi.

The song is a vow of eternal love to an ex-girlfriend.

If a usually tough boyfriend sang something like this, she’d fall for him all over again.

Sometimes I CryEric Benét

Eric Benét – Sometimes I Cry ( Official Video )

It’s a sexy, mature heartbreak song.

The lyrics are very straightforward: I still can’t forget you.

Even while putting on a brave face, the honest feelings are unbearably painful—it’s a classic filled with that kind of aching sadness.

Heartbreak AnniversaryGiveon

GIVĒON – Heartbreak Anniversary (Official Music Video)

There may be no other song that portrays the pain of heartbreak this deeply.

Giveon’s distinctive baritone gently digs up the emotions buried in the depths of the heart.

The pangs of sadness that strike whenever you recall the day you parted, and the way the remaining mementos quietly speak to you, are exquisitely expressed through delicate lyrics and melody.

Released in March 2020 and nominated for a Grammy the following year, this work is recommended for times when you want to heal the pain of a broken heart or reaffirm your bond with someone special.

Why not spend some time facing your own feelings, accompanied by Giveon’s voice?