Really dark... Classic Western songs | So dark that it may trigger depression—proceed with caution!
People often say that you should listen to upbeat songs when you’re feeling down.
That does make sense when you think about it, but in reality, when you’re depressed, you end up wanting to listen to dark songs, right? So, this time, I’ve curated a selection of gloomy Western songs for those who want to dive into some seriously dark music.
I didn’t just pack in popular tracks—these are genuinely dark masterpieces.
So go ahead and wallow in it to your heart’s content (lol).
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Truly Dark… Classic Western Songs | So dark, beware of depression! (31–40)
I See a DarknessBonnie Prince Billy
A track about someone who tries to do good in the world but is essentially a bad person.
It was written by American singer-songwriter Will Oldham and released in 1999 under the name Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy.
In 2000, it was recorded by Johnny Cash.
A Letter To EliseThe Cure
A track that sings about facing bewildering changes.
It was released as a single by The Cure in 1992.
It was inspired by Kafka’s Letters to Felice.
It became a hit worldwide, reaching No.
2 on the U.S.
charts.
Everybody HurtsR.E.M.
An anthem track with an anti-suicide message that reaches out to those who have lost hope.
Largely written by drummer Bill Berry.
Released as a single by R.E.M.
in 1993 and certified Silver in the UK.
En Mi PielBuika
Buika, the genius from Mallorca, Spain.
She has an exceptionally husky voice and is known for possessing world-class vocal ability.
Her expressiveness is astounding, drawing listeners deep into the world of each song.
Her renowned classic “En Mi Piel” was used as the theme song for the Spanish film The Skin I Live In, starring Antonio Banderas.
The simple arrangement of just piano and vocals, combined with Buika’s profound expressiveness, accentuates the song’s darkness.
SorrowThe National
A track included on the album High Violet, released in 2010 by the American indie rock band The National.
Frontman Matt Berninger has described it as “a track that celebrates the sadness in human relationships.”
Truly Dark... Classic Western Songs | So dark, beware of depression! (41–50)
Desire ft. Tove LoYears & Years
It’s included on the album “Communion.” It was released in 2014, and re-released in 2016 featuring Tove Lo.
Its dark, addictive sound is captivating—one of those tracks you end up playing over and over.
Summertime SadnessLana Del Rey
A track by American singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey, released as a single in 2012.
It sings about the loneliness felt in summer and has been described by Lana as a “Hollywood sadcore track.”