Songs That Make You Cry: Heart-Wrenching Western Music—from Timeless Classics to the Newest Hits
There are times when, instead of listening to music to get pumped up or fired up, you deliberately want to listen to poignant or slightly sad songs and have a good cry alone, right?
Upbeat tracks that give you a push are great, but in this article we’ve researched and selected timeless, heart-wrenching English-language songs that empathize with listeners’ feelings, both old and new.
From classic standards to recent hits and the latest buzzworthy tracks, we’re bringing you a genre-crossing selection.
Try listening in whatever setting makes you feel most at ease—whether that’s in your bedroom or on a drive!
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Tearjerkers! Heart-wrenching Western Songs — From Timeless Classics to the Newest Hits — (101–110)
Damn You For Breaking My HeartCaitlyn Smith
If you love grand, sweeping songs, I recommend “Damn You For Breaking My Heart.” The verses are relatively calm, but once the chorus hits, it bursts into a powerful, fast-paced, expansive melody.
The lyrics are quite dark and heavy, so have a handkerchief ready when you look them up…
Wish You Were HereAvril Lavigne
This moving song comes from Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne.
It expresses the bittersweet feelings that follow the loss of a loved one, conveyed through her uniquely powerful vocals.
Included on the album Goodbye Lullaby, it was released as a single in September 2011 and reached No.
65 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It’s recommended for those who have experienced heartbreak or farewells, or who want to reflect on time spent with someone special.
You’re sure to relate to Avril’s delicate emotional expression.
In November 2011, she also delivered a live performance on Good Morning America that resonated deeply with many viewers.
Show Me The Meaning Of Being LonelyBackstreet Boys
The poignant ballad by the American group Backstreet Boys is a moving song themed around heartbreak and loneliness.
Featuring beautiful strings and a wistful melody, the members’ emotive vocals strike a chord.
Included on the May 1999 album “Millennium,” it was released as a single in December of the same year.
It became a global hit, reaching as high as No.
6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
As a song that offers solace to those grappling with a sense of loss, it continues to be beloved by many listeners today.
Tears can be so softChristine&the Queens
Héloïse Letissier, a singer who represents France.
Under her solo project name, Christine and the Queens, she released Tears can be so soft.
It explores themes of loneliness and sorrow, with lyrics that portray a yearning to see one’s family.
As you listen, pay attention to the eerie yet wistful sound built on string instruments.
By the way, the stylish music video was filmed in Los Angeles.
I SurrenderCéline Dion
This is a ballad sung by Canadian diva Celine Dion that expresses a resolve to give everything for love.
With its grand melody and powerful vocals, it deeply moves listeners.
It’s included on the album “A New Day Has Come,” released in March 2002, and has been showcased as one of the highlights of her Las Vegas performances.
It’s the perfect song for those who believe in the power of love—something anyone with experience in romance can relate to.