Classic Western songs to listen to when you want to cry: the world’s tearjerker songs and popular tracks for shedding tears

Something in the wayNirvana

Nirvana – Something In The Way

The album that features this song, Nevermind, is Nirvana’s major-label debut album.

The vocalist Kurt Cobain’s distinctive voice is captivating, and I also recommend the song Heart-Shaped Box.

Whiter Shade of PaleProcol Harum

𝕬 𝖂𝖍𝖎𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝕾𝖍𝖆𝖉𝖊 𝕺𝖋 𝕻𝖆𝖑𝖊 – 𝕻𝖗𝖔𝖈𝖔𝖑 𝕳𝖆𝖗𝖚𝖒

This song is the debut single by the British band Procol Harum, and it was the track that brought them fame.

The songs written by this band, active from the 1960s into the 1970s, feature a style that anticipates the progressive rock of the 1970s.

It`s a wonderful lifeSparklehorse

Sparklehorse – It’s a Wonderful Life

Released in 2001, this song is by the American band Sparkhorse.

The lead singer, Mark, is also known for mastering several instruments.

Other songs they have written include Good Morning Spider.

Don’t Cry, Put Your Head On My ShoulderTom Odell

Tom Odell – Don’t Cry, Put Your Head On My Shoulder (Official Music Video)

The new song released in May 2025 by British singer-songwriter Tom Odell is a truly exquisite ballad that resonates deep within the heart.

Its delicate, piano-centered arrangement is layered with his warm vocals, and the lyrics—centering on gentle comfort for those in sorrow—are profoundly moving.

Carefully crafted over a nine-month production period, the piece is positioned as the second single from the album “A Wonderful Life.” The music video, featuring his wife Georgie, has also drawn attention.

It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night—a masterpiece especially recommended for those facing life’s hardships or seeking emotional support.

Yesterday Once MoreCarpenters

Yesterday Once More

This classic song, which sings of love and nostalgia for music, is one of the Carpenters’ signature works, released in May 1973.

Created by the American brother-and-sister duo, it is imbued with deep affection and longing for pop songs of the 1950s and ’60s, beautifully balancing Karen Carpenter’s warm, tender vocals with Richard Carpenter’s delicate arrangements.

It reached No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a worldwide hit.

It’s a must-listen for everyone who loves music—and for those moments when you want to look back on your youth.

Fix YouColdplay

Coldplay – Fix You (Official Video)

Delivering a healing message that resonates deep within the heart, this gem of a ballad by the British rock band Coldplay is truly special.

Woven from profound sorrow over what has been lost and a poignant wish to support a loved one, the song begins with a quiet piano and builds to a grand climax, stirring the listener’s emotions.

Released as a single from the album X&Y in September 2005, it carries the deep affection rooted in Chris Martin’s personal experience, and its performance at the 2005 Live 8 concert moved many.

It is a masterpiece recommended for anyone facing difficult moments in life or wishing to encourage someone dear to them.

Falling slowlyOnce

Falling Slowly – Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova (Once)

Released in 2006, this song became well-known for being used in the film “Once.” It is also famous for being covered by American singer Josh Groban in 2008.

The film gained additional recognition because the band members themselves appeared in it.