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

Rolling in the DeepAdele

Adele – Rolling in the Deep (Official Music Video)

A masterpiece that powerfully voices anger and sorrow born from deep love.

Written candidly by the British artist Adele from the emotions she felt after breaking up with her former lover, this work was released in November 2010 and topped the charts in 12 countries worldwide.

In the United States, it held the Billboard Hot 100’s number-one spot for seven consecutive weeks, marking Adele’s first-ever U.S.

number-one single.

The lyrics, portraying the feelings of a betrayed lover, are infused with anger, disappointment, and resolve, beautifully balanced by Adele’s soulful vocals and gospel-inspired sound.

As a song that comforts those suffering heartbreak and those trying to move forward, it continues to be cherished by many.

I’m a MessBebe Rexha

Bebe Rexha – I’m A Mess [Official Music Video]

It’s a moving song by American artist Bebe Rexha that sings of the strength to accept oneself even while carrying the loneliness of being left by a loved one.

Included on her album “Expectations,” released in June 2018, it resonated with many listeners.

The wavering of a heart trying to embrace itself as it is—despite self-denial and anxiety—strikes a chord alongside her powerful vocals.

Born from facing her own psychological struggles, the piece is also memorable for the episode that it was completed in just two hours after an offhand remark in the studio.

Winner of a BMI Pop Award, the song continues to be highly regarded as a track that stands by those suffering from heartbreak and self-doubt.

Better VersionFLETCHER

FLETCHER – Better Version (Lyric Video)

The bittersweet love songs crafted by American pop singer Fletcher brilliantly capture the complex emotions that follow a breakup.

She sings of her tangled feelings about an ex’s new relationship, pairing them with delicate guitar melodies and laying bare the truths hidden deep in her heart.

Released in September 2022, the track appears on the album “Girl of My Dreams,” and a duet version with country singer Kelsea Ballerini was unveiled in November of the same year.

The interplay of their differing perspectives elevates the piece, making it even more compelling.

It’s a song that offers solace not only to those suffering from heartbreak but to anyone who has said goodbye to someone they love.

Wrapped in gentle tones, this gem of a ballad is perfect for moments when you want to sort through your feelings.

Stay ft. Mikky EkkoRihanna

Rihanna – Stay ft. Mikky Ekko

This is a ballad that conveys emotions welling up from the depths of the heart, carried by a gentle piano melody.

Rihanna, the singer from Barbados, weaves a poignant yet powerful harmony together with American singer-songwriter Mikky Ekko, evoking deep empathy.

Featured on the album “Unapologetic,” it was released in December 2012 and reached the top five in more than 24 countries worldwide.

It topped the charts in many countries, including Bulgaria, Canada, and Denmark, and its Grammy performance received high acclaim.

This work resonates with anyone facing the pain of heartbreak, regret, and the complexities of love.

With simple yet profound emotional expression and universal themes, it remains a classic that continues to soothe the hearts of many listeners.

Wish You Were HereAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Wish You Were Here (Official Video)

This moving song comes from Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne.

It expresses the bittersweet feelings that follow the loss of a loved one, conveyed through her uniquely powerful vocals.

Included on the album Goodbye Lullaby, it was released as a single in September 2011 and reached No.

65 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It’s recommended for those who have experienced heartbreak or farewells, or who want to reflect on time spent with someone special.

You’re sure to relate to Avril’s delicate emotional expression.

In November 2011, she also delivered a live performance on Good Morning America that resonated deeply with many viewers.

Elastic Heart feat. Shia LaBeouf & Maddie ZieglerSia

Sia – Elastic Heart feat. Shia LaBeouf & Maddie Ziegler (Official Video)

An epic power ballad that portrays love and conflict.

Australia’s Sia masterfully captures the complexities of human relationships.

The lyrics, which sing of having a resilient heart yet still having limits, will resonate with many.

Released in October 2013 as part of the soundtrack for The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, it was later included on the album 1000 Forms of Fear.

The music video features actor Shia LaBeouf and dancer Maddie Ziegler, and drew attention as a highly artistic work.

A recommended track for anyone looking to overcome the pain of love.

It’s A HeartacheBonnie Tyler

Bonnie Tyler – It’s A Heartache (Official HD Video)

In Japan, “Love Is in the Air” is well-known, but it was this 1978 song that broke into both the U.S.

pop and country charts and ignited its popularity.

It was later covered by Rod Stewart.

A melancholic masterpiece that stands as a standard among breakup songs.