Tear-jerking coming-of-age songs in Western music

SingMy Chemical Romance

My Chemical Romance – SING [Official Music Video]

My Chemical Romance, the hugely popular band that recently reunited and is scheduled to come to Japan, has long been supported by young people grappling with frustration.

While much of their worldview leans dark, the song introduced here, “Sing,” is a 2010 hit whose powerful lyrics feel like an anthem for boys and girls wrestling with life—an inspiring masterpiece.

Its unmistakably MCR anthemic melody and dramatic song structure can’t help but lift your spirits.

Incidentally, this track is also popular as a graduation song, and the band actually reworked it as “Sing It For Japan,” releasing a new version dedicated to those affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake.

It’s deeply moving to be reminded of MCR’s heartfelt spirit—beloved by Japan and loving Japan in return.

Counting StarsOneRepublic

OneRepublic – Counting Stars

OneRepublic is a five-member rock band that enjoys strong support in the English-speaking world.

If you like alternative rock or pop rock, they’re a very famous band.

One of their hit songs, Counting Stars, is well known as a graduation song and gained popularity for lyrics that depict the struggles of teenagers.

You’re young, but not that much of a kid; you’re older, but not over the hill.

Pay attention to the uniquely teenage dilemmas and the lyrics that frame them in a positive light!

CirclesPost Malone

Post Malone – Circles (Official Music Video)

I think it’s hard to catch the lyrics of songs in English.

With this song, “Circles,” many people might feel it sounds bright if they just listen to the melody.

The vibe is upbeat, but in fact it’s a song about losing someone important.

Please give it a listen.

PerfectSimple Plan

Simple Plan – Perfect (Official Video) [HD]

It’s a song that expresses the complicated feelings of adolescence—knowing I’m not perfect and feeling sorry toward my parents.

I think the reason Simple Plan resonates so well with teenagers is that they directly capture these uniquely adolescent emotions in their music.

I discovered this song when I was in middle school and listened to it all the time.

Crying My Eyes OutStephen Puth

Stephen Puth – Crying My Eyes Out (Official Video)

For those who want to listen to a tear-jerker but aren’t into songs that feel too heavy, Crying My Eyes Out is highly recommended.

The lyrics are crafted to be sad, but the melody is an easy-to-listen-to, electro-infused pop sound.

Now Is The HourThe 1975

Now Is The Hour (The New Look: Season 1 (Apple TV+ Original Series Soundtrack))

A timeless, heart-stirring ballad has arrived from the UK’s The 1975.

Matthew Healy’s expressive vocals depict a profound longing for a lover far away.

Released in February 2024, the track also drew attention as part of the Apple TV+ series The New Look soundtrack.

Produced by Jack Antonoff, it rediscovers the allure of live instrumentation and delivers a fresh sound to listeners.

Resonating with anyone who has experienced long-distance love or a close parting, the song sings of hope for reunion.

With the warmth and depth of a piece that feels like a classic across eras, it reaffirms The 1975’s multifaceted talent.

If I die youngThe Band Perry

The Band Perry – If I Die Young (Official Music Video)

It begins with the opening line, “If I were to die young.

.

.” When I first heard it, I was surprised that a song like this existed.

It has a relaxed, upbeat country feel, but the lyrics—the heart of the song—reflect on life and on life and death.