Beautiful tear-jerking songs / songs that make you cry your eyes out

Tear-jerking friendship songs in Western music: recommended masterpieces and popular tracks

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Friends who stay by your side when times are tough and when times are happy—when you need them most—are truly invaluable and irreplaceable.

In this article, we’re featuring a rich selection of “tear-jerking friendship songs in Western music” you’ll want to dedicate to your dear friends, as well as songs that celebrate friendships you hope will last forever—from timeless classics to recent hits.

Along with masterpieces that gently sing of the wonders of friendship, we’ll also bring you a refreshing lineup of encouraging songs you’ll want a struggling friend to hear, plus a few tracks with a slightly different flavor, offering plenty of variety.

Since the lyrics are key, be sure to listen while checking the Japanese translations.

Tear-jerking friendship songs in Western music: Recommended classics and popular tracks (21–30)

FriendsThe Beach Boys

The Beach Boys – Friends

FriendsThe Beach Boys

This is a moving friendship song by the highly skilled artists, The Beach Boys, who combine pop sensibilities with an essential, heartfelt appeal.

Characterized by a deeply resonant, melodious atmosphere, it’s a work that naturally brings tears to your eyes.

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I Turn To YouChristina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera – I Turn To You (Official Video)

I Turn To YouChristina Aguilera

This is a tear-jerking friendship song by Christina Aguilera, who enjoys immense worldwide popularity for her catchy vocals and grand musicality.

The mature sound, imbued with a sense of melancholy, resonates deeply, making it a piece you can listen to with great comfort.

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Tear-Jerking Friendship Songs in Western Music: Recommended Classics and Popular Tracks (31–40)

True FriendHannah Montana

Hannah Montana – True Friend Music Video

True FriendHannah Montana

A tear-jerking friendship song by Hannah Montana that unfolds a sound whose simple yet firmly present vocals hit you straight in the heart.

It’s a piece that makes you reflect on what true friends are, featuring a melody line that can move you to tears almost without intending to.

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Thank You For Being A FriendAndrew Gold

Andrew Gold – Thank You For Being A Friend (Official Music Video)

Thank You For Being A FriendAndrew Gold

For those who want to express gratitude to a best friend, “Thank You For Being A Friend” is a perfect choice.

This song was crafted in 1978 by legendary American rocker Andrew Gold.

It’s a beloved classic that has been covered by numerous artists and featured in many commercials.

The lyrics convey gratitude for meeting a best friend and a vow of everlasting friendship—heartwarming enough to stir the soul.

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Best FriendThe Drums

The Drums – Best Friend

Best FriendThe Drums

This is a moving friendship song by The Drums, who are building an unprecedented aesthetic through drum-centered music construction.

It stands out as a thoughtfully crafted work, pairing a solid musical foundation with mood-rich vocals to create a distinctive presence.

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Still A Friend Of MineIncognito

Incognito – Still A Friend Of Mine

Still A Friend Of MineIncognito

This is a moving friendship song by Incognito, whose refined melodic sensibilities—rooted in fusion and acid jazz—create an exceptional sense of comfort.

Its sophisticated musicality retains a crystalline clarity, resulting in a beautiful track that deeply resonates with the heart.

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Castle on the HillEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Castle On The Hill [Official Music Video]

Castle on the HillEd Sheeran

A moving masterpiece filled with love for his hometown and memories of youth has been delivered by UK artist Ed Sheeran.

From a childhood bone-breaking accident to his first love at age 15, this warm work is packed with nostalgia.

Released in January 2017 as a lead single from the album ÷, and featured in the animated films Ferdinand and How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, the song is written as a love letter to his hometown of Framlingham.

Now an adult, he gently portrays his childhood friends each walking their own path, singing of the flow of changing time and feelings that remain unchanged, carried by a powerful melody.

It’s a gem of a track that resonates with the universal sentiment of having a place or person you want to recall when you feel uncertain or lost.

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