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

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.

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.