Departure songs in Western music: world-famous classics and popular tracks.
From graduation to bidding farewell to the departed…
Even when we say “a new beginning,” there are many kinds of departures.
Whether you’re the one sending someone off or the one being sent off, everyone has experienced some kind of departure in one way or another.
Here, we introduce a selection of English-language “songs for setting out” that are reputed to be relatable and perfect for those moments.
We’ve carefully chosen heartwarming tracks that will encourage you when you’re feeling down or anxious and accompany you through moving, emotional times—please take a look.
Based on feedback from music lovers who reached out to our site, we researched and curated this list with care.
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Farewell songs in Western music: World-famous and popular tracks (21–30)
Time To Say GoodbyeSarah Brightman
This song, sung by Sarah Brightman, is characterized by a moving melody themed around love and departure.
Released in 1996 as a duet version with Andrea Bocelli, it became a massive hit across Europe.
In Germany, it achieved the highest sales of all time, and it has enjoyed phenomenal success worldwide, selling over 12 million copies.
The piece is cherished as a song that accompanies life’s turning points, such as weddings that celebrate new beginnings or farewells to loved ones.
Sarah Brightman, hailing from the UK, delivers a clear, crystalline voice that resonates deeply with listeners.
Story of My LifeOne Direction
The heartwarming ballad by UK-born One Direction is a gem that weaves a story of life.
Blending acoustic sounds with moving lyrics, it portrays bonds and memories with loved ones.
Released in October 2013 and included on the album Midnight Memories, the song became a global hit, topping the singles charts in Ireland and New Zealand, and was also used in Japan as the theme for an NTT Docomo commercial.
Cherished by many as a song that resonates deeply—especially during seasons of farewells and graduations—it continues to be loved.
Departure songs in Western music: World-famous and popular songs (31–40)
Start AnewBeady Eye
A song that gives you a gentle push when you’re about to take a new step forward.
Beady Eye’s soft melodies and Liam Gallagher’s warm vocals gently wrap around a heart full of anxiety.
This work tells us there’s always a chance to try again in life, making it a perfect send-off for the moment of departure.
Included on the 2013 album BE, it reached No.
2 on the UK Albums Chart.
If you’re feeling lost or anxious, listen to this track and let the positive energy well up from deep within your heart.
A song for DepartureManic Street Preachers
A track by the British alternative rock band Manic Street Preachers.
It is included on their 2004 album Lifeblood.
Characterized by pop rock and synth-pop sounds, the album was a hit across various European countries.
PompeiiBastille
The British indie pop band Bastille released a masterpiece in 2013 inspired by an ancient Roman tragedy.
The lyrics, depicting a conversation between two people caught in a volcanic eruption, deftly express the anxieties of modern society and the struggle with change.
Featured on their debut album Bad Blood and reaching high positions on the charts, the track became one of the band’s signature songs.
With its catchy melody and profound message, it’s perfect for listening on the road.
As you head toward unfamiliar places, why not let its resonant lyrics heighten your anticipation for a new adventure?
Castle on the HillEd Sheeran
A moving masterpiece filled with love for his hometown and memories of youth has been delivered by UK artist Ed Sheeran.
From a childhood bone-breaking accident to his first love at age 15, this warm work is packed with nostalgia.
Released in January 2017 as a lead single from the album ÷, and featured in the animated films Ferdinand and How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, the song is written as a love letter to his hometown of Framlingham.
Now an adult, he gently portrays his childhood friends each walking their own path, singing of the flow of changing time and feelings that remain unchanged, carried by a powerful melody.
It’s a gem of a track that resonates with the universal sentiment of having a place or person you want to recall when you feel uncertain or lost.
HomeIsabel LaRosa
Isabel LaRosa, a Maryland-born artist from the United States, has released a striking new song.
Having been immersed in music since childhood, she creates tracks with her brother Thomas, and this work was born from the experience of leaving her childhood home.
Its dark-pop melody, tinged with bittersweet nostalgia, pairs beautifully with lyrics that capture the sense of loss that comes with growing up.
Since its release in February 2024, the song has resonated with many listeners and has drawn attention for its deft portrayal of teenage emotions.
It’s a must-listen for anyone facing life changes—like living alone or moving to a new place.