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 latest hits—(111–120)
This I LoveGuns N’ Roses
The very memorable piano intro draws you in with a full-on ballad vibe.
Axl Rose’s powerful, slightly shouted vocals, along with the gradually added rock elements as the song progresses, make it a cool, compelling ballad.
Take Me To ChurchHozier
When I first listened to this song, I was absolutely blown away.
At first I didn’t really understand what it meant, but I was drawn to the fact that it deliberately doesn’t use a trendy melody line.
It’s a song pushing back against LGBT criticism, and the music video focuses on the persecution of gay people in Russia.
However, from what I’ve looked up, Hozier himself apparently isn’t gay.
Car’s OutsideJames Arthur
A ballad that stays close to the hearts of those carrying bittersweet feelings—that’s James Arthur’s music.
Released in October 2019, this song explores the difficulties of a long-distance relationship, poignantly expressing the loneliness of living apart from the one you love.
Arthur, a UK native, delivers a vocal performance that is both powerful and delicate, resonating deeply with listeners.
Through the lyrics, the protagonist’s inner struggle—forced into frequent travel—and their earnest wish to be with their loved one come vividly to life.
It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone who has experienced a breakup or is pained by the distance separating them from someone important.
Free FallingJames Arthur
James Arthur has led a turbulent life.
As a singer-songwriter from the UK, he won The X Factor in 2012 and drew widespread attention.
This track, included on his album Bitter Sweet Love released in January 2024, is a ballad that stirs deep emotions.
Arthur’s distinctive baritone voice poignantly conveys the search for self-worth and the anxiety of an uncertain future.
The song’s structure—beginning with a quiet piano accompaniment and gradually building—offers a compelling listen.
It’s a piece that gently stays by your side when you’re dealing with heartbreak or loneliness.
On a night you want to listen alone in silence, give it a try.
Happiest YearJaymes Young
A wonderful song that blends poignancy with warmth.
Released in January 2019 by Seattle-born James Young, this gem of a love song looks back on a lost romance while expressing gratitude.
James’s gentle vocals and emotional lyrics harmonize beautifully, resonating deeply with listeners.
Loved by many fans as a follow-up to his 2017 album “Feel Something,” this track is perfect for those trying to move forward despite heartbreak or for anyone who wants to cherish precious memories.