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! (41–50)
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.”
Suicide Is PainlessManic Street Preachers
Originally released in 1970, this track was used as the theme song for the film and TV series M*A*S*H.
This cover version by Manic Street Preachers was released in 1992 and reached No.
7 on the UK charts.
Writing’s on the WallSam Smith
It won the Academy Award for Best Original Song as the theme for the film “Spectre.” Sam Smith reportedly wrote it in about 20 minutes after closely reading the script.
It’s a dark, mature track that perfectly suits James Bond.
Paint It, BlackThe Rolling Stones
An up-tempo track written from the perspective of someone who’s feeling down, filled with anger and a blue mood.
It features morbid lyrics that contrast with its refreshing melody.
This track was used as the theme song for CBS’s Vietnam War TV series “Tour of Duty.”
PresidentIAMX
IAMX is the solo project by Chris Corner, a highly acclaimed British artist.
The music is very distinctive, built around a synth sound rooted in dark cabaret.
It might be hard to picture, but simply put, it’s a gothic style that incorporates synths.
A standout track I highly recommend from IAMX is “President.” Its unique synth textures create a brooding atmosphere.
Be sure to check it out.
TruthEivør
Eyðbúgvin Eyð Eyð Eyð? Correction: An artist from the Faroe Islands, a territory of Denmark, Eyðiboy (Eyðibørk?)—known as Eyð Eyð? Wait.
Let me stick to a neutral form: The artist Eyð, from the Faroe Islands, a territory of Denmark.
She’s an impressive artist whose distinctive sound blends Faroese folk songs with contemporary music.
Among her tracks, the one I especially recommend as a dark piece is “Truth.” Grounded in Faroese folk traditions, it has a highly dreamlike, otherworldly quality.
That ethereal atmosphere accentuates a unique darkness.
If you’re looking for darker songs in a Celtic-like folk style, definitely give it a listen.
What Sarah SaidDeath Cab for Cutie
A track inspired by the pain of losing a loved one that a friend of frontman Ben Gibbard faced.
It was released by Death Cab for Cutie in 2005 and is included on the Grammy-nominated album Plans.