[2026] A Collection of Tear-Jerking Coming-of-Age Songs in Western Music

this is what losing someone feels likeJVKE

this is what losing someone feels like (official video)

Jake, a young singer-songwriter who shot to global fame on TikTok, became a familiar name among Japanese music fans after his 2022 hit “golden hour” took the world by storm.

Released in March 2023, this work is a ballad that quietly portrays the regret and pain of losing someone dear.

The protagonist’s feelings—agonizing over small everyday choices like “If only we’d had that coffee together” or “If only I’d picked up the phone”—are poured out over a gentle piano melody.

The delicate emotions of trying to accept the irreversibility of loss may well bring you to tears.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side when you’ve experienced heartbreak or parting.

It’ll Be OkayShawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes – It’ll Be Okay

A piano ballad released in December 2021.

Canadian singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes delivers a quiet portrayal of the pain and acceptance of facing a breakup.

It begins by questioning the end of a relationship, then offers a vow to keep loving the other person—a message that resonates, wrapped in organ-like synths and strings.

When you’ve parted ways with someone important, whether in friendship or romance, there are moments when you want to tell yourself, “It’s going to be okay.” This song gently stays by your side in those moments.

The music video, set against nighttime views of his hometown Toronto and snowy scenes, leaves a strong impression with its world that balances loneliness and warmth.

Recommended for those going through heartbreak, as well as middle schoolers struggling with a relationship.

Best Day Of My LifeAmerican Authors

American Authors – Best Day Of My Life

We’re a four-piece band who met at a music university.

Life can be tough with work, love, and everything in between, but this song carries a bright message: you can make every day the best day of your life.

It’s an uplifting track that makes you want to enjoy each day to the fullest.

Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)Green Day

Green Day – Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) [Official Music Video] [4K UPGRADE]

Speaking of youth, this Green Day song comes to mind.

It’s a staple that’s been sung at graduation ceremonies across the U.S.

for years.

The singer wrote it after breaking up with his girlfriend, and to express the small anger he felt in his heart, he titled it “Good Riddance,” meaning “good riddance” in Japanese.

It’s the perfect song for a season of farewells.

She Used To Be MineSara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles – She Used To Be Mine (Official Video)

It’s a song about looking in the mirror and seeing a stranger.

I had changed so much from who I used to be that even I couldn’t recognize myself.

It’s a mysterious song that makes you think about when and how you changed.

This Is MeThe Greatest Showman

The Greatest Showman Cast – This Is Me (Official Lyric Video)

It’s an inspiring song that makes you want to accept yourself and hold your head high.

It carries a powerful message: “Even though each person looks and acts differently, it’s strange not to be accepted.

Everyone has their own strengths.” It fills you with joy.

We Are YoungFun. ft. Janelle Monáe

Fun.: We Are Young ft. Janelle Monáe [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

We’re a four-piece band who met at a music university.

Life can be tough with work, love, and everything in between, but this song carries a bright message: you can make every day the best day of your life.

It’s an uplifting track that makes you want to enjoy each day to the fullest.