Tear-jerking Western songs: The world's recommended weep-inducing tracks
We’re introducing Western songs that will make you cry—full-on tearjerkers.
We’ve put together a playlist focused on Western tracks that really tug at the heartstrings: grand and beautiful pieces, movie theme songs, and songs with wonderful lyrics.
It’s packed with music that fits perfectly with moving, emotional scenes.
Let the tears flow and feel refreshed.
Especially recommended for fans of Western music.
Tear-jerking Western songs: The world's recommended sob-worthy tracks (1–10)
To Build A HomeThe Cinematic Orchestra
This track was released in 2007 by The Cinematic Orchestra, a British electronic music group.
It’s a piano ballad featuring vocals by Canadian singer-songwriter Patrick Watson.
It reached No.
96 on the French charts.
Stay ft. Mikky EkkoRihanna
How about a heart-shaking ballad in which Rihanna, the songstress from Barbados, lays bare her vulnerability? Featured on her 2012 album Unapologetic and released as a single the following year, it pairs her with American artist Mikky Ekko to sing of aching emotions over a simple arrangement of piano and sparse strings.
The song conveys the turmoil of wanting someone even while knowing the relationship may be falling apart, and the desperate wish for them to stay by your side.
Many will be moved to tears by her trembling vocals, so different from her usual strong persona.
The understated performance she delivered at the 2013 Grammy Awards in February also became a talking point.
It’s the perfect song to listen to on a night when you don’t want to see anyone—soak in the bath and let the quiet tears fall.
Thinking Out LoudEd Sheeran
Let me introduce a timeless ballad by Ed Sheeran, the world-renowned singer-songwriter representing the UK.
Featured on his acclaimed 2014 album ‘x,’ this piece captivates with its gentle guitar tones and soulful vocals.
The lyrics, which vow eternal love—growing old together and loving each other just the same even in their seventies—are sure to move listeners to tears.
It’s also known for achieving a historic feat: remaining in the UK Top 40 for 52 consecutive weeks.
Perfect for moments when you quietly want to cry while thinking of someone dear, or when you want to immerse yourself in a heartwarming love song.
The dance in the music video is deeply moving as well, so be sure to check it out!
Adore YouHarry Styles
Harry Styles, a member of One Direction who also enjoys worldwide popularity as a solo artist.
This track, included on his December 2019 album Fine Line, perfectly blends a ’70s-style groove with a contemporary pop sensibility.
The lyrics, which express deep love and devotion for another, gently stay close to a lonely heart and wrap it in warmth.
The song has been widely embraced in many contexts, including its inclusion in the game Just Dance 2021.
The music video—like a film set on a fictional island—is also a must-see.
Give it a listen on nights when you want someone to affirm you, or when you’d like to quietly let your emotions out and have a good cry.
When You’re GoneAvril Lavigne
It powerfully sings of the unbearable loneliness after a loved one leaves and the growing heartache when you see the clothes left behind in the room.
This is a signature ballad by Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne.
Included on her 2007 album “The Best Damn Thing,” it begins with a piano melody and gradually builds as strings layer in, creating a sweeping progression that brings tears to your eyes.
In Japan, it drew attention as the song used in Toyota’s Alphard commercial, and overseas it was featured on MTV’s “The Hills.” With over 500 million views on YouTube, this track is one to listen to when you’re grieving a breakup or on nights when you want to let all your emotions out.
Her straightforward vocals truly resonate with the heart.
Wish You Were HereAvril Lavigne
Is there any other song that so candidly sings about the loneliness of being without someone you love? It’s a track by Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne.
She breaks out of her tough shell to lay bare the earnest feelings of longing for someone far away.
Released as a single in September 2011, it appears on the album Goodbye Lullaby, which portrays a more personal world.
The music video drew attention for scenes of her setting a red flower on fire and singing through real tears.
Just watching those raw expressions is enough to stir your emotions and bring you to tears.
We all have times when we put on a brave face but deep down just want to cry and reach out for someone, don’t we? For nights like those, this song might be just what you need.
The One That Got AwayKaty Perry
A deep regret over past love tightly grips the heart with a poignant ache.
It’s a song by American singer-songwriter Katy Perry.
Included on the classic 2010 album Teenage Dream, it became the sixth single from the record and started hitting big around October 2011, peaking at No.
3 in the U.S.
Looking back on the passionate days of youth, it sings of the sorrowful what-ifs—“What if I had made a different choice back then?” The tie-in video with the popular game The Sims 3: Showtime also drew attention.
Its story, where joyful memories intersect with a present sense of loss, will deeply resonate with anyone bearing the pain of heartbreak.
It’s recommended for nights when you want to quietly shed a tear alone.