Western songs about saying “goodbye” — perfect for bereavement or a departed lover
Suddenly, have you ever felt that there are surprisingly few Western songs themed around “goodbye” that you can truly relate to?
In life, there are many kinds of farewells—breakups, bereavement, and more, even though they all fall under the same word: goodbye.
It’s the same with music.
Even when a song shares the theme of bereavement, it can be surprisingly hard to find lyrics that resonate with your own experience.
So this time, we’ve picked out a variety of Western songs themed around “goodbye,” focusing especially on tracks about loss and departed lovers.
From brand-new releases to timeless classics, we’ve selected from a wide range of eras—so you’re sure to find something that fits you perfectly!
Please sit back, relax, and enjoy.
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Western songs about saying “goodbye”: perfect for bereavement and lost lovers (11–20)
Good RiddanceGreen Day
Green Day is known as a quintessential punk rock band and has garnered immense popularity among listeners in Japan as well.
Their song Good Riddance was released from their fifth album, Nimrod.
Centered on the theme of farewell, the track portrays the feeling of trying to forget a former lover in order to move forward on a new path.
While some of the emotions are tempered by the melody, as is typical in punk, it still comes together as a poignant song.
Be sure to give it a listen.
HallelujahPentatonix
Leonard Cohen’s masterpiece, “Hallelujah.” It’s so famous that it even appears in Japanese textbooks, but I think few people have ever paid attention to the meaning of the lyrics.
At first glance, the song’s lyrics can be hard to understand because they seem heavily religious, but in fact, it’s about love.
It’s a bittersweet yet heartwarming song that depicts a relationship from beginning to end, so be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well.
This time, instead of the original, I’ve selected the a cappella group Pentatonix’s version.
The melody is also especially compelling.
If You Could See Me NowThe Script
The Script are a three-piece band from Ireland.
They were active mainly from the 2000s to the 2010s, and their rock sound with a strong pop flavor is quite striking.
One of their works themed around “farewell” is If You Could See Me Now.
The song was written for their late father, expressing the bittersweet feelings of a son who wishes his dad could see him now that he’s on stage as an artist.
The lyrics are very real, so be sure to give it a listen.
Stay ft. Mikky EkkoRihanna
This song by Barbadian songstress Rihanna is a moving ballad that portrays intense attachment to a loved one and the inner turmoil it brings.
Set to a simple accompaniment of piano and bass guitar, the emotionally rich vocals of Rihanna and Mikky Ekko resonate throughout.
Released as a single in France in December 2012, it reached high positions on the charts in many countries.
Featured on the album Unapologetic, it was also performed at the 2013 Grammy Awards, where the powerful, emotional rendition drew widespread attention.
As a song that empathizes with those suffering the pain of heartbreak or unable to let go, it has resonated with many listeners.
Slipped AwayAvril Lavigne
A moving ballad that leaves a lasting mark on the heart.
Canadian songstress Avril Lavigne sings with profound love for her late grandfather.
Feelings of loss, regret, and the hope of reunion are expressed quietly yet powerfully.
The song was included on the album Under My Skin, released in May 2004.
The album sold about 8 million copies worldwide and reached number one in 13 countries, marking a turning point that showcased a shift in Avril’s musical direction.
It’s a song I can wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who has experienced the loss of someone dear.