Top Western Breakup Songs Ranking [2025]

Rolling in the DeepAdele92rank/position

Adele – Rolling in the Deep (Official Music Video)

A masterpiece that powerfully voices anger and sorrow born from deep love.

Written candidly by the British artist Adele from the emotions she felt after breaking up with her former lover, this work was released in November 2010 and topped the charts in 12 countries worldwide.

In the United States, it held the Billboard Hot 100’s number-one spot for seven consecutive weeks, marking Adele’s first-ever U.

S.

number-one single.

The lyrics, portraying the feelings of a betrayed lover, are infused with anger, disappointment, and resolve, beautifully balanced by Adele’s soulful vocals and gospel-inspired sound.

As a song that comforts those suffering heartbreak and those trying to move forward, it continues to be cherished by many.

Somebody That I Used To Know (feat. Kimbra)Gotye93rank/position

Gotye – Somebody That I Used To Know (feat. Kimbra) [Official Music Video]

Goyte is a popular singer-songwriter from Australia.

Although he was already well-known in his home country, the song that propelled him to global stardom was Somebody That I Used to Know, included on his 2011 album Making Mirrors and released as a single to massive worldwide success.

The light guitar backing, playful sound arrangement, and melodies shaped by an accent different from those in Europe and the U.

S.

give the track a distinctive character.

With a female guest vocalist, the candid back-and-forth between a separated man and woman hits close to home for many listeners.

You might roll your eyes at the refusal to let go, but relationships between men and women rarely end neatly, do they?

November RainGuns N’ Roses94rank/position

Guns N’ Roses – November Rain

It’s a song included on the 1991 album Use Your Illusion I, which was released as a single the following year.

Among Guns’ works, it stands out as one of the most moving ballads.

From Axl Rose’s vocals to Slash’s guitar and the strings flowing in the background, it’s a masterpiece brimming with mature allure.

lovelyBillie Eilish, Khalid95rank/position

Billie Eilish, Khalid – lovely

The piece “lovely,” a collaboration between Billie Eilish and Khalid, was released in 2017.

With lyrics themed around depression, it gained widespread popularity.

The song’s lyrics mainly depict “people with depression helping each other to get through life,” making it crafted so that its meaning doesn’t change whether it’s interpreted as a romantic relationship or a friendship.

It’s a captivating number that blends Billie Eilish’s dark, striking lyrics with Khalid’s contemporary R&B sound.

Just Give Me A ReasonP!nk ft. Nate Ruess96rank/position

P!nk – Just Give Me A Reason ft. Nate Ruess

A bittersweet breakup song by P!nk with a cool, stylish vibe that appeals to a wide audience.

Many can relate to lyrics like, “I just want a reason why it had to turn out this way,” capturing the struggle of not being able to accept the breakup.

There’s a male vocal part as well, but since the key is high, it’s likely easier for women to sing.

I Will Always Love YouWhitney Houston97rank/position

Whitney Houston – I Will Always Love You (Official 4K Video)

Whitney Houston, who captivated the world with her overwhelming vocal prowess.

This work, sung by the American-born artist, is a grand ballad that vows eternal love.

It portrays a self-sacrificial love that chooses separation for the other person’s happiness—a universal theme that resonates with many.

Released in November 1992, the song was used as the theme for the film The Bodyguard and became a massive hit.

It won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and spent 14 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100 chart.

If you want to feel profound love and the bittersweetness of parting, give it a listen.

Love YourselfJustin Bieber98rank/position

Justin Bieber – Love Yourself (PURPOSE : The Movement)

A song that wryly sings about a past romance you’d rather forget.

Justin Bieber’s wistful vocals brilliantly capture the complex feelings toward a self-centered ex.

The gentle sound of the acoustic guitar contrasts with the lyrics’ biting irony, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in December 2015, the track reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100.

It’s recommended for those looking to recover from heartbreak and prioritize themselves.

Listening quietly on your own while reflecting on a past love might be just right.