2025: Heartbreak songs in Western music — tearjerkers to listen to when love ends

In The StarsBenson Boone

Benson Boone – In The Stars (Live)

Benson Boone is an American artist who is active not only as a singer-songwriter but also as a multi-instrumentalist.

His voice has power, but at its core it’s gentle, making it an excellent match for ballads.

In “In The Stars,” that appeal of his is on full display; even so, it’s the poignancy of the lyrics that stands out even more.

Though the lyrics are abstract, it’s likely a song about bereavement, and it features numerous phrases that strike straight to the heart.

When You’re GonAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – When You’re Gone (Official Video)

It expresses the feeling of needing you, a woman.

The lyrics are written so that many people can relate to them, so it’s a song I want people to hear who are in long-distance relationships and can’t see their partners, or who have broken up but still love and need him.

Man in the mirrorMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Man In The Mirror (Official Video)

This is a song I want men to listen to! I think it gives you a chance to reflect on yourself after a heartbreak and grow.

This song is truly great.

It’s a good song no matter when you listen to it.

It gives you the courage to try again.

Last NightMorgan Wallen

Morgan Wallen – Last Night (One Record At A Time Sessions)

Morgan Wallen’s gentle vocals soothe the pain of heartbreak and resonate deeply.

The lyrics capture a strong desire to keep the relationship going, even after alcohol-fueled conversations and fights severe enough to make them consider breaking up.

The song appears on the album “One Thing At A Time,” released in March 2023, where the warmth of country music blends beautifully with a modern sound.

It captured many listeners’ hearts, spending 11 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard charts.

It’s a must-listen for anyone whose heartbreak hasn’t healed or who is struggling with a complicated relationship.

Out Of TimeThe Weeknd

The Weeknd – Out Of Time (Official Lyric Video)

The Weeknd is a Canadian singer-songwriter who has received extremely high global acclaim for his unique musical style that blends synth-pop with R&B.

His success since the 2020s has been remarkable, and he’s consistently been at the forefront of the scene.

Among his works, the breakup song I especially recommend is Out Of Time.

While the melody is smooth R&B and synth, the lyrics are crafted to be emotionally reflective, longing for a past love.

Keep ItCoi Leray

Coi Leray – Keep It (Official Lyric Video)

This is a striking piece featuring a vocal performance overflowing with raw emotion, gently embraced by tender piano melodies.

It’s a single released in February 2025 by the American breakout artist Coi Leray, and it’s an introspective, beautiful ballad that overturns her usual image.

The song explores the searing pain of being torn apart by a lover’s betrayal and the profound despair toward love itself that follows.

The piano lines vividly trace the protagonist’s shifting emotions, speaking to the listener’s heart softly yet powerfully.

As the lead single from the EP “What Happened To Forever?”, it marks a new musical frontier for her—especially memorable after her two nominations at the 2024 Grammy Awards.

When you need music to sit with the ache of heartbreak or to calm your mind at night, the piano’s tones will gently wrap around you.

HonestyBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Honesty (Official Video)

What can we truly believe in? This is a song I want people who’ve lost the ability to trust others to listen to.

Those in their 40s and 50s probably know it well.

Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, many of Billy Joel’s songs hit you right in the heart.

It’s mysterious.

It’s a great song, so please give it a listen.