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Beautiful tear-jerking songs / songs that make you cry your eyes out
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Classic Western songs with tear-jerking lyrics. Heartfelt message songs from around the world.

With Western music, we often imagine the meaning of the lyrics just from the melody, but when you look up the words, you’ll often find a world far deeper than you expected.

This time, I’ve gathered songs with lyrics that are especially moving—real tearjerkers—among such Western tracks.

Looking up translated versions is great, but I also recommend deciphering them yourself with a dictionary in hand—it deepens your understanding.

Timeless Western songs with moving lyrics: global message songs that touch the heart (31–40)

On lâche rienHK & Les Saltimbanks

HK & Les Saltimbanks “On lâche rien” (Japanese subtitles)
On lâche rienHK & Les Saltimbanks

Ashkabad and the Saltimbanks are a French mixture band formed by immigrants of Algerian origin.

Known for many message songs that criticize politics and social conditions, the track that catapulted them to fame is the one titled “Don’t Give Up!” As a modern protest song, the piece has YouTube videos with translated lyrics in various languages from around the world.

Seasons of LoveIdina Menzel, Rent Cast

Values are one of the things that vary greatly from person to person.

But what happens if we try looking at the world through the lens of love? This song is the theme of the musical RENT.

RENT incorporates a wide range of musical genres, with no two songs alike.

Seasons of Love is gospel.

The melody is catchy and pop, so once you hear it, it’s hard to forget.

HonestyBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Honesty (Official Video)
HonestyBilly Joel

A Billy Joel song.

Included on the album 52nd Street (1978) and released in 1979 as the third single from the album.

It wasn’t a major hit in the United States, but it is one of his most popular songs in Japan.

It opens with a striking piano intro and sings about both the difficulty and the importance of being honest.

Who’ll Stop The RainCreedence Clearwater Revival

Creedence Clearwater Revival: Who’ll Stop The Rain
Who'll Stop The RainCreedence Clearwater Revival

Creedence Clearwater Revival, known by the abbreviation CCR.

Drawing on influences from country, R&B, and blues, they scored a string of hits from the 1960s into the 1970s with their distinctive sound and accessible songs.

This track, too, features a characteristically beautiful CCR melody, but its lyrics are said to depict the air raids carried out under the Nixon administration at the time.

Born This WayLady Gaga

Lady Gaga – Born This Way (Official Music Video)
Born This WayLady Gaga

Lady Gaga has now become a global pop icon.

While her eccentric fashion often grabs the spotlight, she has long supported minorities such as the LGBT community and people experiencing homelessness, and has been active in anti-bullying efforts.

The lyrics of this worldwide hit also reflect her trademark message: embracing diversity and living true to oneself.

Classic Western songs with tear-jerking lyrics: Heart-touching message songs from around the world (41–50)

How Do I Say GoodbyeDean Lewis

Dean Lewis – How Do I Say Goodbye (Official Video)
How Do I Say GoodbyeDean Lewis

A moving song that portrays the pain of parting with a loved one.

Written by Dean Lewis for his father, it was released in August 2022 and is included on the album The Hardest Love.

The lyrics capture the confusion of facing a sudden farewell and the memories shared with someone precious.

Many listeners will relate to the words that convey love for family and the anxiety of possibly losing them.

It’s a perfect song for those who have experienced saying goodbye to someone they love, or who want to cherish the time they have with the important people in their lives.

It’s a song that, while evoking the fragility of life, teaches the importance of living in the present.

Wish You The BestLewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi – Wish You The Best (Official Video)
Wish You The BestLewis Capaldi

A bittersweet yet heartwarming masterpiece of a breakup song.

I can’t help but be impressed by Lewis Capaldi’s commitment to pouring such profound feelings into his lyrics, a testament to his brilliant talent.

Within its aching yet beautiful melody, the complex emotions toward an ex are artfully portrayed, making it a track that deeply resonates with anyone who’s experienced heartbreak.

Released in May 2023, this song is included on the album “Broken by Desire to Be Heavenly Sent.” I highly recommend listening when reflecting on a past romance or after parting ways with someone important.

It may help you confront the true feelings deep within your heart.