Ranking of Tear-Jerking Western Songs [2025]

HappierEd Sheeran8rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Happier (Official Music Video)

Despite having a title that means “happier than ~,” the fact that the song ends up being about a breakup feels distinctly British to me.

It’s a track by Ed Sheeran—one of the greatest singer-songwriters of our time—featured on his 2018 album ÷.

The lyrics, carried by a characteristically beautiful Ed melody, portray raw lingering attachment and regret toward an ex.

The line “You look happier than before” is especially heartrending, isn’t it? Perhaps it’s a sentiment one can eventually overcome, but humans often can’t neatly rationalize such feelings.

The music video, featuring puppet figures, also has a melancholic and suggestive tone, so be sure to check that out as well.

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys9rank/position

Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (Official HD Video)

It was released as the lead single from the 2001 album Millennium.

The song is by the five-member American pop idol group Backstreet Boys.

While they had been popular in Europe, this track became the catalyst that ignited their popularity in their home country.

It’s a quintessential pop song of the ’90s that wistfully portrays the misunderstandings caused by differences in how men and women think.

Time After TimeCyndi Lauper10rank/position

Cyndi Lauper – Time After Time (Official HD Video)

The ballad that sings of deep love and bonds—connections that transcend time—is known as a signature song representing Cyndi Lauper’s career.

Released in January 1984, it became a major hit as the second single from the album “She’s So Unusual.” With its universal theme and beautiful melody, it continues to resonate with many people.

The lyrics, which vow unwavering support for a loved one, are embraced as a message of hope and reassurance, and the song has been covered by various artists.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when facing a breakup or when you want to feel the bond with someone important.

One Call AwayCharlie Puth11rank/position

Charlie Puth – One Call Away [Official Video]

This song, which celebrates unconditional support for a loved one, is a classic that deeply resonates with people struggling with long-distance relationships or physical separation.

Released in August 2015 by American singer-songwriter Charlie Puth, this pop-soul ballad features a warm melody with gospel influences.

As the second single from his debut album, Nine Track Mind, it peaked at No.

12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified triple platinum.

It’s a recommended track for those who spend a lot of time apart from their partner or loved ones, and for anyone hoping to build a supportive relationship.

Someone Like YouAdele12rank/position

Adele – Someone Like You (Official Music Video)

This is a gem of a ballad sung by Adele, a singer-songwriter from the UK, that brought tears to listeners around the world.

It’s based on her own real-life experience of learning that her ex had found someone new.

The lyrics, which bravely claim “I’ll find someone like you” while her heart cries out “It isn’t over for me yet,” are so honest they make your chest tighten.

That complicated state of mind—holding painful lingering feelings yet trying to wish the other person happiness—is something anyone who’s been through a hard breakup can’t help but relate to.

Listening to this song may bring back memories of a love you can’t forget.

Her soulful voice etches that sorrow even more deeply into the heart.

When You’re GoneAvril Lavigne13rank/position

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

This work, captivating with its poignant, heart-stirring melody and lyrics, is a power ballad that portrays a parting from a loved one.

The lyrics, which make one keenly feel the importance of what has been lost, resonate with many listeners.

It is included on Canadian artist Avril Lavigne’s third album, The Best Damn Thing, released in June 2007.

The music video depicts breakups among couples from various generations, beautifully expressing the song’s world.

As a song that stands by those who have experienced heartbreak or separation from someone dear, it is sure to be a source of comfort.

Viva La VidaColdplay14rank/position

Coldplay – Viva La Vida (Official Video)

Coldplay is an award-winning British rock band.

This song was released in 2008.

Its Japanese title is “Beautiful Life,” but it sings of the sorrow of a king driven from his country.

At the 51st Grammy Awards, it won in three categories.

It is a collaboration with the avant-garde musician Brian Eno.