[2026] Heartbreaking English-language breakup songs sung by women: Tear-jerking breakup tracks to discover

Edge Of A Broken HeartVixen

Vixen – Edge Of A Broken Heart

In the 1980s, the heyday of hard rock, VIXEN was a female rock band often called the “girls’ version of Bon Jovi.” Despite their powerfully energetic performances that could put many male bands to shame, Janet Gardner’s vocals—lamenting a love that has faded away—are gripping and full of emotion.

I Still Love YouJennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson – I Still Love You (Official Video)

Jennifer, who boasts a brilliant career as both a singer and an actress.

In 2014’s “I Still Love You,” she sings, “Only you can fulfill my life,” unable to let go of the lover who left, declaring, “I still love you.”

Only When I SleepThe Corrs

The Corrs – Only When I Sleep [Official Video]

The Japanese title is “Hold Me in My Dreams.” It sings of a heartbreakingly pure love—how I can feel you and see you only in my dreams.

They’re a four-piece band from Ireland made up of three sisters and one brother.

Their unique sound, blending Celtic music, is truly one of a kind.

Thank YouEstelle

Estelle – Thank You [Official Video]

Estelle, who won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year with “American Boy.” This track from her 2012 album “All Of Me” is a song in which she thanks her unfaithful lover—who has another woman—saying, “By going through the pain, I became a real woman.” It’s a line you can only say once you’ve grown up.

Smooth OperatorSade

Sade – Smooth Operator – Official – 1984

Sade, who made a huge breakthrough in the ’80s with her exotic looks—born in Nigeria—and her sultry vocals.

Her biggest hit is a tearful love song about a woman who falls for a smooth operator (a playboy).

Don’t miss the music video, which is as dramatic as a movie.

Tonight I’m Getting Over YouCarly Rae Jepsen

Carly Rae Jepsen – Tonight I’m Getting Over You

With her friendly charm and adorable appeal, Carly’s popularity is exploding.

This single cut from her 2012 album “Kiss” features an upbeat, catchy melody that’s sure to get stuck in your head.

The couple in the music video—Carly and her boyfriend—are absolutely adorable.

Love Is a Losing GameAmy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse – Love Is A Losing Game

This is an achingly poignant masterpiece by Amy Winehouse, the singer from England.

True to its title, “Love Is a Losing Game,” it sings of the futility of a love you know will never be rewarded, no matter how hard you try.

Even after giving everything, you’re left behind in the end, with a crushing sense of defeat and helplessness.

Anyone who’s worn themselves down in a barren, one-sided love will feel the sting of this hopeless situation all too well.

Her voice—deep and tinged with resignation—doesn’t console so much as it quietly stays beside the pain.

It’s a song that seeps into your heart on nights when you’re burdened with sorrow that has nowhere to go.