Hidden gems of breakup songs in Western music. Recommended popular tracks.
This is a playlist of Western breakup songs that will stay by your side when you’re heartbroken or have chosen a painful goodbye.
Even if you usually prefer Japanese music, when it’s too hard to even listen to breakup stories unfolding in the lyrics, it might be good to try listening to Western music.
Hidden gems of breakup songs in Western music. Recommended popular tracks (1–10)
SorryTyler Royale
This is a song by Tyler Royale, a singer-songwriter from Atlanta who has been immersed in music since the age of nine.
Released in June 2020, the track is an R&B number that expresses apology and regret toward a former lover.
Even while knowing she can no longer convey her feelings, the painful emotions she still holds for that person are rendered through her deep, soulful vocals, tightening the listener’s chest.
As you listen to the wistful melody, you can almost see the protagonist regretting her mistakes.
Hearing this poignant track might inspire you to be honest with your feelings and express them to someone you cherish, so you won’t have any regrets again.
The OneThe Chainsmokers
A breakup ballad about a dead-end relationship.
It was released in 2017 by The Chainsmokers.
The backing vocals are by collaborator Emily Warren.
It became a hit around the world and was certified Gold in Australia and Italy.
HappierEd Sheeran
A ballad about a breakup released in 2017 by Ed Sheeran.
Ryan Tedder, the frontman of OneRepublic, whom he first met backstage at the TV show X Factor in November 2014, was involved in its production.
The track was a hit around the world and was certified platinum in four countries.
DangerouslyCharlie Puth
A pop ballad released in 2016 by American singer Charlie Puth.
It became a hit in New Zealand and various European countries.
The music video, directed by Aya Tanimura, had been viewed over 50 million times as of May 2017.
Black SunDeath Cab for Cutie
A sad yet affectionate electropop track.
It was released in 2016 by American singer-songwriter Halsey.
The music video, filmed in a Gothic-style house in Los Angeles, was directed by Tim Mattia, who has also worked on projects for acts like The Pretty Reckless.
October 25thSadie Jean
This is a song by Sadie Jean that paints a bittersweet autumn memory.
Set to a gentle melody, it recounts memories of heartbreak from when she was sixteen.
The specific date of October 25 serves as a trigger that vividly brings back past events.
The lyric about “repeating the same lesson over and over” conveys her determination to overcome the pain of a breakup.
The track is included on the EP “Simple Like 17,” released in December 2023.
It’s a recommended listen when you’re in the mood to reflect on past relationships or soothe the sting of heartbreak.
The AlibiDylan
This is a breakup song by Dylan, a rising British singer-songwriter, released in February 2024.
It skillfully portrays the pain of being betrayed by a loved one and the complex emotions of continuing to love them despite everything.
The lyric “If there were a crime, I’d be standing by your side” conveys deep affection for the other person and the struggle with lost trust.
Dylan’s emotionally rich vocals and polished sound beautifully express the heartache.
It’s a song that will resonate with those who still feel attached to a past relationship or who want to heal from the pain of heartbreak.