Sad songs possess a unique power. Music, in its vast spectrum, can uplift us with happiness, ignite our motivation, and fill us with excitement. Yet, there’s a particular genre, a collection of melodies and lyrics, that can unlock a different kind of emotional release: tears. Everyone knows the feeling – that instant connection with a song that seems to understand the deepest corners of your heart, bringing forth a torrent of emotions. These are the Songs That Make You Cry, the ones that resonate with heartbreak, loss, longing, and the bittersweet tapestry of life itself.
Whether it’s a poignant lyric that strikes a personal chord, a melody that tugs at your soul, or a music video that paints a thousand unspoken emotions, we all have those songs. In fact, most of us have many songs that hold the power to break us down and let the tears flow freely. Life, in its beautiful and messy reality, necessitates these sonic companions for our emotional journey. We turn to sad songs when navigating the jagged edges of heartbreak, when feeling adrift in life’s uncertainties, when contemplating the vast expanse of the future, or when simply allowing ourselves to reminisce about moments gone by.
Sad songs transcend genre boundaries. They can be found in soulful ballads, raw rock anthems, introspective hip-hop tracks, and heart-wrenching R&B tunes. To prove this genre-less universality of sadness in music, we’ve compiled a list of 47 songs guaranteed to evoke those powerful emotions. So, turn up the volume, settle into a comfortable space, and prepare to experience the cathartic release of a good cry with these ultimate tearjerkers.
1. Teardrops on My Guitar by Taylor Swift
When: 2006
What: Taylor Swift, now a global icon of emotional storytelling through music, gave us an early glimpse of her prowess with this 2006 hit. Teardrops on My Guitar captures the quintessential high school experience of unrequited love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a girl silently yearning for her oblivious crush, who is in love with someone else. It’s a poignant exploration of teenage heartbreak and the quiet pain of watching from the sidelines, making it one of those classic songs that make you cry for lost chances and unspoken feelings.
Sad rating: 9/10
2. Half of My Hometown by Kelsea Ballerini
When: 2020
What: Nostalgia, especially for the places and people that shaped us, can be a powerful trigger for tears. Kelsea Ballerini’s Half of My Hometown beautifully encapsulates this sentiment. This country ballad reflects on the diverging paths of people from her small Tennessee hometown. It evokes a bittersweet feeling of home, reminding us that amidst the chaos of life, there’s always a simpler, grounding way of living rooted in our origins. The song speaks to the universal experience of leaving home and the emotional pull of our roots, making it a tearjerker for anyone who has ever felt the tug of their hometown.
Sad rating: 8/10
3. This Is Me by The Greatest Showman ensemble cast
When: 2017
What: While empowerment anthems might not immediately register as songs that make you cry, This Is Me from The Greatest Showman transcends simple categorization. It’s a powerful declaration of self-acceptance and resilience in the face of adversity. The lyrics resonate with anyone who has felt like an outsider, ridiculed for their differences. The sheer emotional weight of embracing one’s true self, despite societal pressures, is incredibly moving. Lines like “I won’t let them break me down to dust. I know that there’s a place for us. For we are glorious,” are not just inspirational; they are profoundly touching, capable of bringing tears of both sadness and triumphant joy.
Sad rating: 8/10
4. Let Her Go by Passenger
When: 2012
What: Let Her Go became a global phenomenon due to its raw and relatable portrayal of regret. Passenger’s poignant lyrics delve into the profound sadness of realizing the value of something or someone only after they are lost. It’s a song about coming to terms with irreversible decisions and accepting the painful lesson that sometimes, making amends is simply too late. The melancholic melody and heartfelt vocals amplify the feeling of loss and longing, making it a quintessential song for anyone grappling with regret and lost love.
Sad rating: 10/10
5. Glimpse of Us by Joji
When: 2022
What: Joji’s Glimpse of Us is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of love and loss in the digital age, rapidly gaining traction on platforms like TikTok for its raw emotional honesty. The song’s dark and melancholic atmosphere sets the stage for Joji’s lament about a love that’s fading in comparison to a past, idealized relationship. It poignantly captures the painful realization of being unable to replicate a deep, past affection in a current relationship. The sadness emanates from the feeling of emotional inadequacy and the ghost of a love that overshadows the present.
Sad rating: 10/10
6. Someone Like You by Adele
When: 2011
What: Adele’s Someone Like You is a masterclass in vocal vulnerability and lyrical heartbreak. Her unforgettable performance at the 2011 BRIT Awards cemented this song as an anthem of lost love. Over a decade later, its heart-wrenching and universally relatable lyrics about a past love who has moved on still resonate deeply. The song’s beauty lies in its simplicity and raw emotion, capturing the ache of seeing someone you once loved thriving with someone else. It’s a timeless ballad that consistently ranks among the top songs that make you cry, especially for those experiencing heartbreak.
Sad rating: 10/10
7. Overprotected by Britney Spears
When: 2001
What: On the surface, Overprotected by Britney Spears seems like a catchy pop anthem about teenage angst. However, knowing the context of Britney’s life and subsequent struggles adds a layer of profound sadness to this 2001 hit. At the time, she was seemingly reigning as a pop princess, but this song subtly revealed her feelings of being controlled and restricted in making her own life decisions. Listening to it now, with the knowledge of her past, transforms Overprotected into a poignant cry for independence and a sad commentary on the pressures of fame and control. This song, in retrospect, becomes deeply moving as it hints at a hidden struggle beneath the pop star façade.
Sad rating: 9/10
8. Wherever You Will Go by Charlene Soraia
When: 2011
What: Charlene Soraia’s cover of The Calling’s Wherever You Will Go is a masterclass in transforming a rock ballad into a deeply moving, soulful lament. Its release alongside a Twinings tea advert unexpectedly amplified its emotional resonance, embedding it in popular culture as a go-to tearjerker. Soraia’s haunting vocals bring a new dimension of vulnerability to the already poignant lyrics about unwavering devotion and unconditional love. The song’s enduring appeal as a soundtrack for emotional moments is a testament to its power, and the fact that Soraia didn’t achieve greater mainstream success remains a musical injustice. Her voice, full of raw emotion, truly makes this rendition special and undeniably sad.
Sad rating: 9/10
9. Matilda by Harry Styles
When: 2022
What: From Harry Styles’ critically acclaimed album Harry’s House, Matilda stands out for its intimate and melancholic storytelling. Inspired by someone Harry knew personally and likened to the character Matilda from Roald Dahl’s book, the song delves into themes of a troubled upbringing and resilience. The lyrics are crafted with delicate precision, painting a picture of despair and quiet strength. It’s a song about empathy and understanding, recognizing the unseen struggles others carry. The understated sadness and compassionate narrative make Matilda a deeply moving and tear-inducing track.
Sad rating: 8/10
10. Shallow by Lady Gaga And Bradley Cooper
When: 2018
What: Shallow, from the emotionally resonant film A Star Is Born, is more than just a song; it’s a cinematic experience in itself. Performed by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, the lead actors of the movie, it encapsulates the film’s core themes of vulnerability, connection, and the search for authenticity. The delicate yet powerful lyrics explore the yearning for deeper connection and the fear of superficiality. The raw emotion in their voices, combined with the song’s poignant melody, makes it devastatingly beautiful. Anyone who has watched A Star Is Born or simply experienced the longing for genuine connection will find Shallow to be an incredibly moving and tear-inducing ballad.
Sad rating: 9/10
11. Conversations With My 13 Year Old Self by P!nk
When: 2006
What: The concept of writing a letter to our younger selves is inherently emotional, tapping into nostalgia, regret, and the passage of time. P!nk’s Conversations With My 13 Year Old Self transforms this concept into a deeply moving song. It’s a reflection on past insecurities, anxieties, and the journey of self-discovery. The song evokes a sense of empathy for our younger selves and a poignant understanding of how far we’ve come. The mere thought of having the chance to reassure our younger selves that things will eventually be okay is profoundly touching, making this song a surprising tearjerker for many.
Sad rating: 9/10
12. Piece by Piece by Kelly Clarkson
When: 2015
What: Kelly Clarkson’s Piece by Piece is a raw and intensely personal song about family, abandonment, and the power of love to heal. It’s a searingly honest message to her father, who left her at a young age, contrasted with the love and stability she found with her husband. The emotional rawness in Clarkson’s voice, particularly in live performances, amplifies the song’s devastatingly tragic yet ultimately hopeful message. It’s an emotional reminder that we are all capable of finding love and building fulfilling lives, regardless of past hurts. The vulnerability and strength conveyed in Piece by Piece make it an incredibly powerful and tearful listening experience.
Sad rating: 10/10
13. When I Was Your Man by Bruno Mars
When: 2012
What: When I Was Your Man by Bruno Mars taps into the universal feeling of regret and lost opportunity in love. While it might evoke a touch of male vulnerability, the song’s core emotion is relatable to anyone who has missed their chance with someone special. Mars sings with heartfelt remorse about taking a past love for granted and now witnessing someone else cherish her in the way he should have. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of appreciating love in the present and the painful consequences of taking it for granted. The simple piano melody and Mars’ emotive vocals enhance the song’s melancholic and reflective mood.
Sad rating: 7/10
14. Skyscraper by Demi Lovato
When: 2011
What: Skyscraper by Demi Lovato is an anthem of resilience and inner strength, delivered with breathtaking vocal power and vulnerability. The song’s message about finding strength within oneself despite obstacles and personal struggles is universally inspiring. Lovato’s performance imbues the lyrics with profound emotion, making it deeply relatable to anyone facing adversity. The imagery of rising tall and strong like a skyscraper, even after being broken, is incredibly moving. Skyscraper is more than just a song; it’s an emotional experience that can empower and move listeners to tears with its message of hope and self-belief.
Sad rating: 9/10
15. 7 Years by Lukas Graham
When: 2015
What: 7 Years by Lukas Graham is a poignant reflection on the journey of life, from childhood dreams to the realities of adulthood and the contemplation of old age. The song’s narrative structure, progressing through different life stages, evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia and the passage of time. It touches upon universal themes of growing up, facing life’s challenges, and cherishing memories. The simple yet evocative lyrics prompt introspection about our own lives, past, present, and future. The emotional depth and relatable life cycle themes in 7 Years make it a song that can easily bring tears to your eyes as you reflect on your own journey.
Sad rating: 10/10
16. Please Don’t Say You Love Me by Gabrielle Aplin
When: 2013
What: Gabrielle Aplin’s Please Don’t Say You Love Me is a delicate and honest portrayal of vulnerability and fear in the early stages of a relationship. Aplin’s gentle vocals perfectly capture the emotional hesitancy of wanting to take things slow, driven by the fear of unreciprocated feelings. It resonates with the universal experience of being cautious in love, afraid of expressing deep emotions too soon and risking vulnerability. The song’s quiet intimacy and relatable anxieties about love make it a touching and emotionally resonant track.
Sad rating: 8/10
17. Summertime Sadness by Lana Del Rey
When: 2012
What: Summertime Sadness by Lana Del Rey is an atmospheric and intensely melancholic track that embodies a sense of longing and loss. Del Rey’s signature haunting vocals and evocative lyrics paint a picture of someone deeply affected by the absence of a loved one. The song captures the feeling of being unable to move on from a past relationship, constantly reminiscing and feeling incomplete without that person. The dreamy, almost ethereal quality of the music enhances the feeling of yearning and inescapable sadness, making it a quintessential song for those grappling with heartbreak and lingering memories.
Sad rating: 9/10
18. Brenda Had A Baby by 2Pac
When: 1992
What: 2Pac was renowned for his ability to use music as a platform to address social and political issues affecting marginalized communities. Brenda Had A Baby is a powerful and heartbreaking example of this. The song tells the tragic story of a 12-year-old girl who endures sexual abuse and its devastating consequences. 2Pac’s unflinching lyrics and the grim reality of the narrative are profoundly disturbing and emotionally impactful. The song serves as a stark commentary on social issues and the vulnerability of young people in disadvantaged circumstances. Its raw honesty and tragic storyline make Brenda Had A Baby a deeply upsetting and tear-inducing track, even for those with a hardened heart.
Sad rating: 10/10
19. See You Again by Charlie Puth ft Wiz Khalifa
When: 2015
What: See You Again, featured on the Fast & Furious 7 soundtrack, is a deeply emotional tribute to the late Paul Walker, a beloved star of the franchise who tragically passed away. The song plays during the film’s finale, accompanying a montage of Walker’s character and Vin Diesel’s character’s final, poignant ride together. Its association with Walker’s memory and the themes of loss and remembrance make it incredibly powerful. The song’s immense popularity, with billions of views on YouTube, speaks to its universal appeal and emotional impact. For fans of the Fast & Furious franchise and anyone who has experienced loss, See You Again is virtually guaranteed to evoke tears.
Sad rating: 9/10
20. When We Were Young by Adele
When: 2015
What: Adele’s voice alone possesses a remarkable ability to stir emotions, and in When We Were Young, she combines her vocal prowess with nostalgic lyrics about a past love. The song evokes memories of youthful romance and the bittersweet feeling of revisiting those moments in time. The lyrics about seeing an old flame and being transported back to the past are universally relatable and emotionally charged. The combination of Adele’s powerful vocals and the nostalgic theme makes When We Were Young a reliable tearjerker, perfect for moments of reflection and sentimental longing.
Sad rating: 7/10
21. Hurt by Christina Aguilera
When: 2009
What: Hurt by Christina Aguilera is a powerful ballad about loss and regret, specifically the pain of losing a loved one and the remorse of unspoken words or actions. While many initially interpreted it as being about Aguilera’s relationship with her father, songwriter Linda Perry clarified that it stemmed from the loss of her own father. Regardless of its origin, the song’s themes of grief and the longing for a second chance to make things right are universally understood and deeply moving. Aguilera’s vocal performance is emotionally charged, amplifying the song’s raw and heartbreaking message.
Sad rating: 8/10
22. Photograph by Ed Sheeran
When: 2014
What: Ed Sheeran is known for crafting emotionally resonant ballads, and Photograph stands out as a particularly poignant example. It’s a tribute to long-distance relationships and the challenges of maintaining connection across distance. The song’s central metaphor of a photograph serving as a reminder of good times during tough periods is both simple and deeply effective. The nostalgic music video, featuring home video clips from Sheeran’s childhood, further enhances the song’s sentimental and heartwarming qualities. Photograph is a tearjerker for anyone who has experienced the bittersweet realities of love across distances.
Sad rating: 7/10
23. Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
When: 2006
What: Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol gained iconic status through its association with emotionally charged scenes in popular TV dramas, most notably Grey’s Anatomy. The gut-wrenching scene where Alex Karev carries Izzie Stevens after the death of Denny Duquette, set to Chasing Cars, is etched in television history as a tearjerker moment. The song’s gentle melody and lyrics about wanting simple, comforting love resonate deeply with themes of loss, grief, and the desire for connection in times of sorrow. Its enduring association with emotional television scenes solidifies Chasing Cars as a song that reliably triggers tears.
Sad rating: 8/10
24. A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
When: 2011
What: A Thousand Years by Christina Perri is inextricably linked with the Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1, serving as the franchise’s flagship romantic ballad. For “Twihearts,” the song perfectly embodies the epic and enduring love story of Bella and Edward. It’s a blend of romantic devotion and underlying melancholy, capturing the intensity and bittersweet nature of their relationship. The song’s soaring melody and lyrics about timeless love resonate deeply with fans of the saga and anyone who appreciates a passionate, albeit slightly tragic, love song. A Thousand Years is both romantic and heartbreaking, making it a tearjerker for those invested in epic love stories.
Sad rating: 8/10
25. Runaway Love by Ludacris ft Mary J. Blige
When: 2006
What: Runaway Love by Ludacris, featuring Mary J. Blige, is a powerful narrative song that tackles the difficult subject of child abuse. The song, combined with its impactful music video, presents heartbreaking stories of young girls escaping horrific situations. Ludacris’ storytelling and the song’s somber tone create a deeply moving and upsetting experience. Runaway Love sheds light on a critical social issue with empathy and raw emotion. The combination of the narrative and visuals makes this song profoundly sad and likely to leave listeners in tears due to its poignant and disturbing subject matter.
Sad rating: 10/10
26. Lay Me Bare by Stormzy
When: 2017
What: Lay Me Bare is the concluding track on Stormzy’s debut album Gang Signs & Prayers and represents a moment of profound vulnerability for the grime artist. In this song, Stormzy opens up about his personal struggles, including his battles with depression, his experiences growing up amidst gang violence, and his complex relationship with his absent father. The raw honesty and emotional depth of his lyrics offer a glimpse into his inner world, revealing a side of Stormzy beyond his public persona. The song’s unflinching vulnerability and exploration of personal demons make Lay Me Bare a deeply moving and tearful listening experience.
Sad rating: 8/10
27. Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley
When: 1994
What: Hallelujah, written by Leonard Cohen but popularized by Jeff Buckley, is a song of immense emotional and spiritual depth. While covered countless times, Buckley’s rendition is widely considered the definitive version due to its unparalleled emotional intensity. His vocal performance is infused with a raw vulnerability and yearning that transcends simple sadness, reaching a place of profound emotional release. The song’s themes of love, loss, and redemption, combined with Buckley’s ethereal voice, create an experience that is both heartbreaking and cathartic. Jeff Buckley’s Hallelujah is not just a song; it’s an emotional masterpiece capable of moving listeners to tears of profound sadness and spiritual reflection.
Sad rating: 10/10
28. Back To Black by Amy Winehouse
When: 2007
What: Back To Black by Amy Winehouse is a raw and autobiographical portrayal of heartbreak and self-destruction. The song’s power lies in the palpable pain in Winehouse’s voice, combined with lyrics that detail her turbulent relationship with Blake Fielder-Civil. It captures the agonizing period when her boyfriend returned to an ex, plunging Winehouse into a “very black few months.” The song is a window into her personal turmoil and the destructive patterns of heartbreak. The combination of Winehouse’s soulful yet wounded vocals and the starkly honest lyrics make Back To Black a deeply moving and undeniably sad song.
Song rating: 7/10
29. Wild Wolves by Athlete
When: 2009
What: For fans of the TV series Gossip Girl, Wild Wolves by Athlete is indelibly linked to a deeply emotional scene between Chuck Bass and Blair Waldorf in season three. The song plays as Chuck shares his pain about never having had a mother, prompting Blair to offer comfort and declare her love. The association with this poignant scene enhances the song’s emotional impact, particularly for viewers invested in the characters’ relationship. While perhaps less universally known than other songs on this list, Wild Wolves holds a special place as a tearjerker for Gossip Girl fans, evoking feelings of vulnerability, love, and longing.
Sad rating: 6/10
30. Fix You by Coldplay
When: 2005
What: Fix You by Coldplay is a universally recognized anthem of comfort and healing in times of grief. While it gained additional emotional weight for fans of The O.C. through its use during Caleb’s death scene, the song’s origins are even more poignant. Chris Martin wrote it for his then-wife Gwyneth Paltrow following the death of her father. The lyrics speak directly to the experience of loss and the desire to support and “fix” a loved one’s pain. The song’s message of empathy, support, and hope in the face of grief makes Fix You a deeply moving and tear-inducing ballad for anyone who has experienced loss or sought to comfort someone in pain.
Sad rating: 8/10
31. Stole by Kelly Rowland
When: 2002
What: Stole was the second single from Kelly Rowland’s debut solo album Simply Deep, and the title accurately reflects the song’s profound emotional depth. It tells the stories of three teenagers whose potential was tragically cut short due to difficult personal circumstances and family situations. Stole is a poignant commentary on lost potential and the impact of societal and personal challenges on young lives. Rowland’s emotive vocals and the song’s somber narrative make Stole a deeply moving and thought-provoking track that evokes sadness and empathy for the lives depicted.
Sad rating: 7/10
32. All By Myself by Celine Dion
When: 1996
What: When you think of All By Myself by Celine Dion, the iconic Bridget Jones movie scene immediately comes to mind for many. This association underscores the song’s powerful portrayal of loneliness and isolation. Dion’s soaring vocals and the song’s dramatic melody amplify the feeling of being utterly alone and yearning for connection. All By Myself is a quintessential anthem of solitude and longing, making it a go-to tearjerker for anyone who has experienced loneliness or the pain of being alone.
Sad rating: 8/10
33. I’d Rather Go Blind by Beyoncé
When: 2009
What: Beyoncé’s rendition of Etta James’ classic I’d Rather Go Blind, performed in the movie Cadillac Records, showcases her exceptional ability to infuse deep emotion into ballads. She embodies the raw heartbreak and desperation of the lyrics, which express the pain of seeing a loved one with someone else being so unbearable that blindness seems preferable. Beyoncé’s powerful vocals and the song’s intense portrayal of romantic despair make this version of I’d Rather Go Blind a truly devastating and tearful experience. It’s heartbreak personified in a song.
Sad rating: 10/10
34. Earth Song by Michael Jackson
When: 1995
What: Michael Jackson described Earth Song as his opportunity to “let people hear the voice of the planet.” The song is a passionate plea for environmental awareness and a lament for the mistreatment of the Earth. Jackson’s emotive vocals, combined with the song’s dramatic orchestration and the powerful imagery in its music video, create a deeply moving and impactful experience. Earth Song evokes sadness not just for personal losses but for the larger tragedy of environmental destruction and humanity’s disconnect from nature. Its powerful message and Jackson’s passionate delivery make it more than just sob-worthy; it’s a call to action wrapped in profound sadness and concern.
Sad rating: 8/10
35. With Or Without You by U2
When: 1987
What: With or Without You by U2 explores the paradoxical struggles of a relationship where love and pain are intertwined. The lyrics capture the agonizing dilemma of being unable to live with or without a significant other, a situation many find themselves in at some point. The song’s emotional core resonates with anyone who has experienced the push and pull of a complicated relationship where love and conflict are inseparable. U2’s anthemic sound and Bono’s passionate vocals amplify the song’s feeling of romantic turmoil and make With or Without You a tearjerker for those who understand the bittersweet nature of complex love.
Sad rating: 7/10
36. Mockingbird by Eminem
When: 2004
What: Mockingbird by Eminem is a deeply personal and vulnerable song dedicated to his daughter Hailie and niece Laney. In it, Eminem expresses remorse for the difficulties his family has faced, particularly the impact of his tumultuous relationship with Hailie’s mother. He raps with raw honesty about missing moments in their childhood and apologizes for the pain they’ve witnessed. The music video, featuring home videos and photos, adds another layer of intimacy and emotional resonance. Eminem’s vulnerability and the song’s heartfelt message to his children make Mockingbird a profoundly moving and tearful track, showcasing a softer side of the often-controversial rapper.
Sad rating: 10/10
37. How To Save A Life by The Fray
When: 2005
What: How To Save A Life by The Fray was inspired by lead singer Isaac Slade’s experience working at a teenage shelter. The song reflects on the complexities of relationships and the challenges of helping someone struggling with difficult choices. Slade based the lyrics on his interactions with a particular teenager whose life choices were putting his relationships at risk. The song’s themes of struggling to connect, understand, and help someone in distress are universally relatable and emotionally resonant. How To Save A Life is a poignant reflection on human connection and the often-frustrating attempts to support those we care about, making it a thoughtful and tearful song.
Sad rating: 8/10
38. Too Good At Goodbyes by Sam Smith
When: 2017
What: Too Good At Goodbyes marked Sam Smith’s highly anticipated return to music and reaffirmed their signature style of emotionally charged ballads. The song explores the defensive mechanism of pushing people away in relationships to avoid potential heartbreak. It’s about preemptive emotional self-preservation and the fear of vulnerability. Smith’s powerful vocals and the song’s theme of guarded hearts and fear of pain make Too Good At Goodbyes a quintessential break-up song that can trigger tears within seconds for those who recognize this pattern in their own relationships.
Sad rating: 8/10
39. Breathe Me by Sia
When: 2004
What: Long before her global breakthrough with Chandelier, Sia released Breathe Me, a haunting and deeply personal track. The song resonates profoundly with anyone who has experienced or is navigating depression and emotional struggles. Its themes of vulnerability, fragility, and the need for support are universally understood by those facing mental health challenges. The song’s raw emotionality and Sia’s distinctive vocals have led to its use in numerous emotionally charged moments in film and television, solidifying its status as a go-to tearjerker for moments of sadness and introspection.
Sad rating: 9/10
40. I’ll Be Missing You by Puffy Daddy, Faith Evans & 112
When: 1997
What: I’ll Be Missing You was released shortly after the tragic murder of hip-hop legend Biggie Smalls (The Notorious B.I.G.) and serves as a poignant tribute to him. Featuring Faith Evans (Biggie’s widow) and 112, the song directly addresses the pain of loss and remembrance. Its universal theme of grieving for someone dearly missed resonates with anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one. I’ll Be Missing You is a classic memorial song, deeply embedded in pop culture as a soundtrack for grief and remembrance, making it a reliable tearjerker for moments of mourning and reflection.
Sad rating: 8/10
41. Untitled by Simple Plan
When: 2005
What: The music video for Untitled by Simple Plan depicts a drunk driving accident with tragic consequences, but the song’s powerful lyrics extend beyond this specific scenario. The song’s themes of regret, loss, and the weight of irreversible actions are broadly applicable to many life situations. It captures the profound sadness and remorse associated with making mistakes that have lasting consequences. Untitled evokes a sense of heavy regret and the painful realization of irreversible loss, making it a song that can easily trigger tears of sadness and reflection on past mistakes.
Sad rating: 10/10
42. What Was I Made For? by Billie Eilish
When: 2022
What: What Was I Made For? is Billie Eilish’s contribution to the soundtrack of Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster film Barbie. The song is a reflective and introspective exploration of female identity, purpose, and societal expectations. Eilish’s delicate vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics delve into questions of self-worth and the pressures placed on women. It resonates deeply with women who grapple with these themes, sparking introspection about their own roles and expectations. What Was I Made For? is a tearjerker for its thoughtful exploration of womanhood and its ability to connect with the emotional experiences of women across generations.
Sad rating: 8/10
43. How To Cry by Sam Smith
When: 2023
What: How To Cry by Sam Smith delves into the painful realization that a relationship is unsustainable and that letting go is necessary. The song explores the complex emotions of recognizing incompatibility and the heartbreak of knowing that love isn’t always enough. Smith’s vocals convey the deep sadness of accepting that someone you care for deeply might not be the right partner. The song’s exploration of deception and the difficult choice to end a relationship makes How To Cry a tearjerker for anyone who has faced the painful reality of letting go of someone they love.
Sad rating: 9/10
44. So Long, London by Taylor Swift
When: 2024
What: So Long, London is widely interpreted as Taylor Swift’s poignant farewell to her relationship with Joe Alwyn and their shared life in London. The song is a multifaceted goodbye – not only to the relationship itself and the emotions surrounding its end but also to the city that held so many memories. It captures the bittersweet feeling of leaving a significant chapter of life behind and the sadness of saying goodbye to both a person and a place. So Long, London is a deeply personal and evocative tearjerker for anyone who has experienced a significant breakup and the associated sense of loss and closure.
Sad rating: 8/10
45. Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
When: 1975
What: Landslide by Fleetwood Mac, penned by Stevie Nicks, is a timeless classic about the uncertainties of life and love. The song’s beauty lies in its simplicity and honesty, addressing the anxieties and changes inherent in both personal growth and relationships. Nicks’ gentle vocals and the song’s acoustic arrangement create an intimate and comforting atmosphere. Landslide is a perfect song for moments of introspection and emotional release, offering solace and understanding in the face of life’s inevitable uncertainties. Its timeless lyrics and comforting melody make it a classic tearjerker for those seeking emotional catharsis.
Sad rating: 7/10
46. Dancing on my Own by Calum Scott
When: 2016
What: Calum Scott’s version of Dancing on my Own is a powerful and emotionally raw cover of Robyn’s 2010 electropop track. Scott’s rendition strips away the upbeat tempo and emphasizes the song’s inherent sadness and vulnerability. The lyrics depict the heartbreaking experience of watching the person you love with someone else, feeling isolated and alone even in a crowded space. Scott’s emotionally charged vocal performance, particularly during his Britain’s Got Talent audition, catapulted the song to fame and solidified its status as a deeply moving and tearful ballad about unrequited love and loneliness.
Sad rating: 8/10
47. I’ll Never Love Again by Lady Gaga
When: 2018
What: I’ll Never Love Again is the devastatingly emotional song that concludes A Star Is Born. Without spoiling the film’s plot, the song is a powerful expression of all-consuming love and the profound grief of loss. It conveys the feeling that a particular love was so profound and transformative that the idea of experiencing similar love again feels impossible. Lady Gaga’s heartbreaking performance of the song in the film amplifies its emotional impact, making it a truly devastating and unforgettable musical moment. I’ll Never Love Again is undoubtedly a top-tier tearjerker, representing the ultimate expression of love and loss.
Sad rating: 10/10. Without a doubt.
