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.
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Classic Western songs with tear-jerking lyrics: Heart-touching message songs from around the world (41–50)
What’s Going OnMarvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye is one of the singers who epitomized soul and R&B in the 1960s and 1970s.
In this song, he asks listeners, “What’s going on?” and “What’s happening?”, reflecting the social climate in America amid the quagmire of the Vietnam War and the domestic anti-war movement.
Released in 1971, the song became a major hit, reaching No.
2 on the U.
S.
charts.
El Derecho de Vivir en PazVictor Jara

Known in Japan under the title “The Right to Live in Peace,” this song is a signature work by Chilean singer-songwriter Victor Jara.
He was arrested during the military coup in Chile in 1973 and executed at the young age of 40.
Yet this song, imbued with a powerful plea for peace, has become a standard sung around the world, and in Japan it has been covered by artists such as Soul Flower Union and Shibusa Shirazu.
Easy On MeAdele

A deeply resonant, emotionally rich piano ballad portrays the struggles of a woman standing at a crossroads in life.
Adele’s overwhelming vocal prowess vividly captures the journey of facing oneself through the painful decision of divorce.
Released in October 2021 as her first new work in six years, the song drew global attention as the lead single from the album “30.” It offers solace to those who have experienced heartbreak or separation, prompting self-reflection.
A gem of a masterpiece for anyone wrestling with parting from a loved one or preparing to take a new step forward.
Oh MotherChristina Aguilera

This is an emotionally moving song where gentle piano tones and Christina Aguilera’s powerful vocals resonate deeply.
The lyrics honor the courage and strength of a mother who escaped domestic violence, overflowing with deep love and gratitude.
Released in Europe in 2007, it reached number 18 on the German singles chart.
Featured on the album Back to Basics, this warm track gently encourages those trying to move forward after painful experiences.
It’s recommended for moments when you want to reflect on the bonds with your family and loved ones.
Coat of Many ColorsDolly Parton

This heartwarming song has Dolly Parton gently and warmly singing about childhood memories of growing up in poverty.
Through a colorful coat filled with her mother’s love, it conveys the importance of family bonds over material wealth.
Released in October 1971, the song was included on Dolly’s eighth solo album and became a major hit, reaching No.
4 on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
It’s a classic that soothes the soul—perfect for when you want to remember your gratitude for family or when your heart feels worn and weary.
Goodbye Yellow Brick RoadElton John

What kind of feelings do people who moved to Tokyo from the countryside have toward their hometowns? The song portrays someone who once longed for the big city and set out to accomplish something, but whose heart gradually drifts away from urban life.
I think many listeners can relate to the nostalgia for one’s hometown and the weariness that comes from city living.
The lyrics are a bit challenging.
Some may also recognize this track as the ending theme for the drama “The Sun Will Not Set,” starring Tackey.
SmileCharles Chaplin
This song is the instrumental theme used in Charlie Chaplin’s 1936 film Modern Times, composed by Chaplin himself.
Conveying the message of keeping a smile even in sad times, it was first covered by Nat King Cole and has since been covered by many artists, including Michael Jackson.






