Breakup songs by Western bands. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
Bittersweet memories—heartbreak.
I think everyone has experienced it.
This time, I’d like to introduce some masterpieces that capture those feelings, set to wistful melodies.
I’ve focused mainly on Western bands.
Use translation tools to help you picture the emotions.
Breakup songs by Western bands. World-famous classics and popular tracks (1–10)
Lounge ActNirvana
Nirvana is a band formed in the United States in 1987.
Today, because Nirvana’s band logo is used by various fashion brands on items like T-shirts, it seems that many young people know the band’s name even if they aren’t familiar with their songs.
Cryin’Aerosmith
A single by the American hard rock band Aerosmith, released in 1993.
It was the third single taken from that year’s album “Get a Grip.” The song portrays a man’s feelings as he faces the end of love, deeply hurt and unsure of how to move forward.
Stray HeartGreen Day
This is a rare breakup song for Green Day, a band known for many aggressive tracks.
Green Day is an American punk band that enjoys worldwide popularity—with their songs even being covered in Japan—and they are especially popular among young people for their unwavering stance of expressing their views, as seen in “American Idiot.”
With or Without YouU2
A heartbreak song marked by a poignant vocal that pierces deep into the chest.
Known as one of U2’s signature tracks, it was released in March 1987 and reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts.
The protagonist’s complex feelings about a troubled relationship are superbly conveyed through Bono’s expressive singing.
Featured on the album The Joshua Tree, this song will resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced the struggles and anguish of love.
It’s recommended for times when you want to heal the pain of a breakup or reflect on an important relationship.
The ReasonHoobastank
This song by a band with a Japanese American vocalist can be considered one of Hoobastank’s signature tracks.
Although the lyrics are about heartbreak, the grandeur of the rock ballad makes it feel good to listen to, and it seems like it could give you a bit of encouragement when you’re going through a breakup.
Stop Crying Your Heart OutOasis
A comforting song about memories of love.
Written by Noel Gallagher and released in 2002, it is Oasis’s 20th single.
It is also known as the theme song for the film The Butterfly Effect.
The British singer Leona Lewis covered the song on her 2009 album Echo.
Train in VainThe Clash
This is the final single from London Calling, the third album by the British punk band The Clash, released in 1979.
It was written primarily by guitarist Mick Jones overnight and recorded the following day.