Tear-jerking Western songs: recommended classics and popular tracks

Hello, it's meTodd Rundgren

Todd Rundgren – Hello It’s Me (1972)

Although not widely known in Japan, this is a classic tear-jerking love ballad.

Todd Rundgren is a musician so versed in music that he could be called a true craftsman; not only does he perform his own work, but he has also produced countless artists.

Released in 1972, this love ballad possesses a mysterious allure, exuding an almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Easy On MeAdele

Adele – Easy On Me (Official Video)

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.

Make You Feel My LoveAdele

Adele – Make You Feel My Love (Official Video)

Even while lost and troubled, singing that they have trusted their intuition from the very moment they met, the straightforward lyrics that evoke a sense of destiny are genuinely moving.

Adele’s beautiful female vocals send shivers through the heart.

Her powerful voice has surely encouraged many people.

When your goneAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – When You’re Gone (Official Video)

It’s said to be one of Avril’s breakup songs, but depending on how you interpret it, it can also be taken as a song about losing someone important to you.

Even after that precious person is no longer right in front of you, the song powerfully expresses the enduring feelings you have for them, and Avril’s strong vocals resonate deeply in the chest.

How Do I Say GoodbyeDean Lewis

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

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.

Cry Me A RiverElla Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald – Cry me a river

“Cry Me a River” is a classic in jazz and blues.

In Japanese, its meaning is translated as “tears become a river.” As you can imagine from that, it’s the story of someone whose breakup has gotten messy and out of hand.

The weighty melody adds depth.

Goodbye Yellow Brick RoadElton John

Elton John – Goodbye Yellow Brick Road Lyrics

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.