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! Heartbreaking Western Songs — From Timeless Classics to the Latest Hits — (41–50)
I Eat DinnerRufus Wainwright feat. Dido
Rufus Wainwright’s singing amplifies the feeling of heartbreak to the utmost.
The melody is very quiet, overflowing with a truly sorrowful ballad-like atmosphere.
The lyrics, written about the grief of losing a loved one, make it an incredibly poignant song.
When your goneAvril Lavigne
It’s said to be one of Avril’s breakup songs, but depending on how you interpret it, it can also be taken as a song about losing someone important to you.
Even after that precious person is no longer right in front of you, the song powerfully expresses the enduring feelings you have for them, and Avril’s strong vocals resonate deeply in the chest.
BreakevenThe Script
A single released in 2008 by the Irish pop-rock band The Script.
It reached No.
10 on the Irish charts and No.
3 in Australia, and also hit No.
1 on Billboard’s Adult Pop chart.
No OneAlicia Keys
Alicia Keys has a very husky, distinctive voice that becomes addictive.
The song condenses a sparkling melody and a richly crafted world.
She also appears in the music video herself, and her stunning looks are a highlight as well.
You & IOne Direction
Speaking of One Direction, I always had the impression they had lots of poppy, catchy melodies that make you feel energized when you listen.
But they’ve also released such a gentle, tender ballad.
It’s a refreshing, easy-to-listen-to ballad.
ImaginationShawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes, the Canadian singer-songwriter who’s won popularity with his sweet looks and catchy musical style.
This is a hidden gem included on the deluxe edition of his debut album, Handwritten, which drew attention when he was 16.
The song revolves around an achingly sad unrequited love: being unable to confess your feelings to the person you like and becoming their lover only in your imagination.
His crystalline vocals and the gentle tones of the acoustic guitar portray the protagonist’s pure, single-minded feelings, tightening your chest.
Released in April 2015, this emotional track is one you’ll want to hear if you’re holding onto a love you know will never come true.
I Still…Backstreet Boys
Pivoting toward a rock sound and captivating fans with a more mature allure, the Backstreet Boys reached a new chapter in their music.
Featured on their 2005 album Never Gone, this song symbolizes that fresh direction.
Even though the relationship is over, the other person still feels vivid and present—that painfully bittersweet lingering attachment is sung through the group’s beautiful five-part harmonies.
It’s also a memorable track for fans, as Kevin temporarily left the group after this song.
When you’re carrying the ache of an unforgettable love, this is a song that quietly stays by your side.