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

bittersweetNEW!Madison Beer

bittersweet

Madison Beer is an American singer-songwriter who is also active as an actress.

Released in October 2025, this track was produced as the second single from her third album, “MB3.” Although it was the last song added when the album was nearly finished, it ended up becoming the defining track of the record, balancing emotional volatility with a lively pop energy.

The lyrics portray the feelings surrounding a breakup—recognizing it was the right choice, yet still grappling with lingering, complex emotions—beautifully capturing a bittersweet mix of longing for the past and determination to move forward.

Rooted in synth-pop while weaving in elements of dream pop and electropop, the mid-tempo tune blends danceable qualities with emotional depth, making it a perfect song for anyone working through heartbreak.

You You YouNEW!Maisie Peters

Maisie Peters – You You You [Lyric Video]

Maisie Peters, a singer-songwriter from England known for her literary lyricism, is signed to Ed Sheeran’s label and topped the UK charts in June 2023 with her album The Good Witch.

Her new song, released in October 2025, is a bittersweet piece that looks back on the pain of heartbreak.

Paired with the simultaneously released Audrey Hepburn, it portrays a period when she was consumed by deep sorrow.

Having been involved in the production herself, she expresses emotional nuances with delicate precision, creating a work that will gently comfort anyone who has gone through a painful breakup.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.

HappierMarshmello & Bastille

Marshmello ft. Bastille – Happier (Official Music Video)

Happier is a masterpiece by Marshmello, a globally popular DJ, and Bastille, a London-based alternative rock band.

When you’re in a relationship, there’s that moment when you realize your past actions have hurt the other person.

This song centers on that kind of realization.

Its greatest appeal is, without a doubt, the poignancy—the lyrics unfold with a heartbreaking sense of futility, capturing the feeling that by the time you realize it, it’s already too late.

If you’ve recently gone through a breakup, this track will probably hit you hard.

we can’t be friends (wait for your love)Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande – we can’t be friends (wait for your love) (official music video)

Ariana Grande’s exquisite ballad features a sweet yet aching melody line and lyrics that delicately portray the pain of heartbreak, resonating deeply with the listener.

Set against a sound that evokes 80s synth-pop, it beautifully captures the complex emotions that follow the end of a romance.

Released in March 2024 as the second single from her seventh studio album, Eternal Sunshine, the song also drew attention for its music video inspired by the film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

It’s a must-listen for anyone trying to move forward while carrying the pain of a breakup, or for those tormented by unforgettable memories of love.

If We Ever Broke UpMae Stephens

Mae Stephens – If We Ever Broke Up (Official Video)

The song that went hugely viral on TikTok with its bold lyrics—“I won’t have any regrets even if we break up”—and addictive sound is If We Ever Broke Up by British singer-songwriter Mae Stephens.

She’s also known as a big Japanophile and reportedly loves Sanrio characters.

The beat makes you want to move, and the catchy synthesizer melody really stands out.

It’s a recommended track for anyone torn about breaking up with their partner or feeling down after a breakup!

One Last TimeAriana Grande

Ariana Grande – One Last Time (Official Video)

The lyrics convey a poignant feeling—asking for just one more chance, reflecting on one’s past actions, pleading for just one more time, and then promising to disappear from your sight—that made me want to listen to the song over and over.

There are times when we think, “I should have done this back then.” Listening to this song makes me want to be honest with myself.

MapsYeah Yeah Yeahs

Yeah Yeah Yeahs – Maps (Official Music Video)

A song that captivates with its heart-stirring, bittersweet melody and emotional lyrics.

Born from the struggles of a long-distance relationship, it earnestly pleads the singer’s unwavering love for “you.” Released in April 2003 and included on the debut album Fever To Tell.

In the music video, lead vocalist Karen’s tears left a strong impression.

It resonated with many listeners and went on to have a significant influence on pop culture.

It’s a track that stands by those carrying the pain of heartbreak and gives them the courage to take a new step forward.

If you’re going through a breakup with someone important right now, why not give this song a listen?