Tear-jerking Western breakup songs: recommended classics and popular hits

honestyBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Honesty (Official Video)

This is a powerful ballad hit by Billy Joel that sings of pure, innocent love.

Its clear vocals and melodic lines have established it as a moving love song that brings listeners to tears, and it is frequently chosen for wedding scenes.

where is the loveBlack Eyed Peas

The Black Eyed Peas – Where Is The Love? (Official Music Video)

Although it’s a hip-hop track, it uses orchestral-style instruments to create a glamorous atmosphere, with the chorus vocals heightening the emotion—it’s a classic by the Black Eyed Peas.

The lyrics, which keep searching for where love is, make it a deeply poignant love song tinged with melancholy, and among the straightforward generation it’s known as a tear-jerker.

i love youBlu Cantrell

Blu Cantrell-I Love You

A superb love song where exquisite electric piano and vocals in the direct lineage of Black music truly shine.

Its simple yet straightforward message—“I love you”—hits home, and the smooth melody seeps straight into the heart.

me & those dreamin’ eyes of mineD’Angelo

D’Angelo – Me And Those Dreamin’ Eyes Of Mine (Official Video)

This is a masterpiece by D’Angelo, a powerhouse male vocalist who skillfully spans many octaves.

Its sexy, mature soundscape is soothing, heightening the mood as it captures the way one’s gaze becomes riveted.

It’s a song whose beautiful track and lyrics can move you to tears.

i’m still waitingDiana Ross

Diana Ross – I’m Still Waiting

This is a classic by Diana Ross, who has built a solid position from the roots of soul music and continues to sing.

With its melancholy synths and vocals, it becomes a love song whose passionate plea—“I’m still waiting for you”—moves listeners to tears.

shape of youEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)

It’s a love song of such high quality that it brings tears to your eyes, its perfection underscored by its massive worldwide hit status.

The vocals, which vividly conjure beautiful scenes and propelled Ed Sheeran to fame, are a defining feature, and combined with a track reminiscent of folk instruments, the result is a grand and sweeping impression.

you used to love meFaith Evans

Faith Evans – You Used To Love Me (1995)

It’s a beautiful love song where Faith Evans’s sultry vocals intertwine with a bouncy, downbeat R&B rhythm.

The emotional feelings are conveyed through poignant lyrics with impressive craftsmanship, creating such a beautiful world that it may bring you to tears.