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

On Our WayThe Royal Concept

The Royal Concept – On Our Way

We are young, and we are one—let’s shine.

The Royal Concept’s On Our Way, an anthem that swept through the 2000s, is packed with symbols of youth.

Catchy riffs and earthy floor toms, and graduation exists so we can charge straight toward what we’re aiming for.

Say It Ain’t SoWeezer

Weezer – Say It Ain’t So (Version 3)

The full-on Weezer, slightly melancholic melody line brings you to the brink of hot tears.

That signature Weezer sound—evoking the spirit of boys in their adolescent years—resonates deeply, and it’s likely to strike a powerful chord with high schoolers.

See You Again ft. Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa

Wiz Khalifa – See You Again ft. Charlie Puth [Official Video] Furious 7 Soundtrack

When it comes to must-listen tearjerker songs for young people, this is the one! It was also used as an insert song in the hugely popular film Fast & Furious, and it’s a wonderful track filled with the passion of deep friendship.

It’s a classic beloved not only in Japan but by young people all around the world.

Say SomethingA Great Big World ft. Christina Aguilera

A Great Big World, Christina Aguilera – Say Something (Official Video)

It’s a song featured in the film “If I Stay.” It’s unbearably heart-wrenching, and just listening to it makes me feel like I’m about to burst into tears.

A Great Big World came to Japan in 2015, and at that time they collaborated with May J.

on this song.

When We Were YoungAdele

Adele – When We Were Young (Live at The Church Studios)

This song is about love—like a first love that everyone experiences—sparked by seeing the profile of someone you once cared for, bringing back memories of your younger days or the times you’ve had until now.

It’s a nostalgic song that recalls moments when your chest felt tight with emotion.

CryinAerosmith

Aerosmith – Cryin’ (Official Music Video)

When we met, I was crying, and when we parted, I cried too.

This song expresses the helpless feeling of having to part with someone you truly love from the bottom of your heart.

I especially love Steven Tyler’s harmonica in this track—it’s beautiful.

There’s about a 40-second harmonica solo in the middle of the song, and it really resonates with the heart.

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.