Tear-jerking motivational songs in Western music
We’ve compiled a large collection of songs you’ll want to listen to when you want to cheer someone on—or when you need a boost yourself.
There are plenty of tracks that might just bring you to tears.
We’ve focused on Western music, so be sure to give them a listen!
Tear-jerking motivational Western songs (1–10)
Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis
Oasis, the Manchester-born band that made their name resound across the globe as a standard-bearer of Britpop, released a classic song in February 1996 that delivers an uplifting message of hope and resonates deeply with the heart.
This track, the first to feature Noel Gallagher as lead vocalist, sings about letting go of past anger and hate and moving forward toward a brighter future.
Beginning with a beautiful piano intro heavily influenced by the Beatles and building into a majestic chorus, the song’s structure is breathtaking.
It debuted at number one in the UK and later became a symbol of solidarity and hope in the midst of sorrow when it was sung at a memorial gathering after the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack.
True ColorsCyndi Lauper
A universally appealing track released in 1986 by American singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper.
It became a hit around the world and was used in commercials such as those for Kodak.
It has been covered by artists including Phil Collins and Anna Kendrick with Justin Timberlake.
It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to YesterdayBoyz II Men
After parting with someone dear, have you ever felt your chest tighten with the thought that you can never return to the joyful “yesterday”? The song “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday” by the American R&B group Boyz II Men is a classic that sings of longing for the past and the pain of farewell.
Precisely because it’s performed a cappella, without any instruments, the warmth and poignancy of their voices seep directly into the heart.
It’s as if the beautiful harmonies gently embrace the sorrow that overflows no matter how hard you try to hold it back.
This song feels like a warm presence that quietly stays close to a heart that has experienced a painful parting, allowing the tears to flow.
Seven Nation ArmyThe White Stripes
A powerful rock anthem from the American rock duo The White Stripes, who captivated the world with fierce guitar riffs and overwhelming presence.
Born from the Detroit-based band, this rebellious track portrays the indomitable spirit of a protagonist who refuses to be controlled and stands firm in their own will.
Released in February 2003, it opens the album Elephant and won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song.
It made a huge impact on the global music scene and has been featured widely across media—from sports events and commercials to the film G.
I.
Joe: Retaliation.
It’s recommended listening when you hit a wall in daily life or want to boost your motivation.
The song’s strength and energy are sure to give you new courage.
Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)Kelly Clarkson
This is a track marked by a powerful beat and catchy melody, singing about the courage to overcome adversity.
Released in January 2012 from the album “Stronger” by American artist Kelly Clarkson, it’s an uptempo dance-pop song.
It topped the Billboard Hot 100 for three consecutive weeks and became a massive hit, surpassing 4.
95 million digital downloads.
The story of a protagonist who rediscovers her own strength after heartbreak blends perfectly with the dynamic sound produced by Greg Kurstin.
Beloved as a staple for cheer routines, it’s also the perfect song to lift the mood at parties, during workouts, or any moment you want to feel positive and energized.
Losing KeysJack Johnson
A melancholic track filled with a sense of defeat, featuring soft vocals.
It was included on American singer-songwriter Jack Johnson’s 2008 album Sleep Through the Static.
Someone Like YouAdele
A track about recovering from the end of a relationship and vowing to meet someone new.
It’s a piano-driven ballad with a beautiful melody, released in 2011 by the British singer Adele.
The black-and-white music video was filmed in Paris.