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

She Used To Be MineSara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles – She Used To Be Mine (Official Video)

It’s a song about looking in the mirror and seeing a stranger.

I had changed so much from who I used to be that even I couldn’t recognize myself.

It’s a mysterious song that makes you think about when and how you changed.

This Is MeThe Greatest Showman

The Greatest Showman Cast – This Is Me (Official Lyric Video)

It’s an inspiring song that makes you want to accept yourself and hold your head high.

It carries a powerful message: “Even though each person looks and acts differently, it’s strange not to be accepted.

Everyone has their own strengths.” It fills you with joy.

We Are The WorldUSA For Africa

USA For Africa – We Are The World (HQ official Video)

This song was created to support fundraising efforts for famines in Africa.

Living in a vast world, we need to help one another to get by—that powerful message is embedded in the song.

It remains a classic that is still sung around the world today.

ComplicatedAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Complicated (Official Video)

Among Avril’s songs, one track in particular is famously known for making listeners cry: “”.

While it can hardly be called a recent release, its unique mood—combined with Avril’s age at the time—will undoubtedly move today’s high school students to tears.

I’m Not In Love10cc

10cc – I’m Not In Love

While outwardly insisting “it’s not like I’m in love,” the song paints the aching feelings of a man who has in fact fallen deeply in love, set against a dreamlike melody.

Released in 1975 by the British rock band 10cc, it topped the UK Singles Chart and reached No.

2 in the US.

It’s said that Eric Stewart drew inspiration from a conversation with his wife.

Featured in the film Guardians of the Galaxy, the track resonates with anyone who can’t suppress their feelings for someone special.

A gem of a ballad that stirs the heart—perfect for listening alone on a quiet night.

Hard To Say I’m SorryCHICAGO

Chicago – Hard To Say I’m Sorry (Official Music Video)

This is a signature work by the American brass-rock band Chicago, depicting the pain of heartbreak alongside an elegant piano melody.

Released in September 1982 and produced by David Foster, the song elevates the rich musicality of the brass section into a pop arrangement.

It topped the U.

S.

singles chart for two consecutive weeks.

Chosen as the ending theme for the film “Blue Lovers,” it also became familiar in Japan as a commercial song for Osaka Gas and Toyota.

The lyrics portray a man who, after being told goodbye by his lover, regrets his past behavior—feelings that many listeners can surely empathize with.

Wish You Were HereAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Wish You Were Here (Official Video)

This moving song comes from Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne.

It expresses the bittersweet feelings that follow the loss of a loved one, conveyed through her uniquely powerful vocals.

Included on the album Goodbye Lullaby, it was released as a single in September 2011 and reached No.

65 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It’s recommended for those who have experienced heartbreak or farewells, or who want to reflect on time spent with someone special.

You’re sure to relate to Avril’s delicate emotional expression.

In November 2011, she also delivered a live performance on Good Morning America that resonated deeply with many viewers.