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! Bittersweet Songs in Western Music—from Timeless Classics to the Newest Hits—(141–150)
Heartbreak HotelElvis Presley
A song written by Tommy Durden, a Nashville steel guitar player who once worked as a dishwasher repairman.
When the song was released on January 27, 1956, Elvis Presley was 21 years old.
It became his first No.
1 hit on the Billboard pop chart.
I’m Not Gonna Miss YouGlen Campbell
Glen Campbell revealed in 2011 that he was battling Alzheimer’s disease.
This song is the last piece he wrote with Julian Raymond.
Inspired by his struggle with Alzheimer’s, it serves as a message to his wife and children.
Wake Me Up When September EndsGreen Day
This is a song about a country boy who becomes an American volunteer soldier.
Also, the title means “Wake me up when September ends,” which indirectly alludes to the 9/11 attacks and strongly expresses an anti-war stance.
No AirJordin Sparks ft. Chris Brown
A song about a dying relationship produced by the R&B/pop producer duo The Underdogs, who are also known for their work on the Dreamgirls soundtrack.
It’s a duet by Jordin Sparks and her labelmate Chris Brown, and it spent seven weeks at No.
1 on the New Zealand singles chart.
Please Don’t Fall In Love With MeKhalid
This song stands out for its poignant lyrics and a melody that really seeps into the heart.
Khalid, an American artist, weaves a story drawn from his own experiences, inviting listeners on a journey through love, loss, and self-discovery.
The arrangement, which samples an Alicia Keys classic, is excellent and reads as a thoughtful homage to R&B’s heritage.
Released in April 2024, the track signals the beginning of a new musical chapter for Khalid.
Anyone who’s been hurt by past relationships will likely relate.
It’s the perfect song for quiet nights alone or reflective rainy-day drives.