Really dark... Classic Western songs | So dark that it may trigger depression—proceed with caution!
People often say that you should listen to upbeat songs when you’re feeling down.
That does make sense when you think about it, but in reality, when you’re depressed, you end up wanting to listen to dark songs, right? So, this time, I’ve curated a selection of gloomy Western songs for those who want to dive into some seriously dark music.
I didn’t just pack in popular tracks—these are genuinely dark masterpieces.
So go ahead and wallow in it to your heart’s content (lol).
- Despairingly dark Western music. World-famous classics and popular songs.
- Yami songs in Western music: recommended masterpieces and popular tracks
- Iconic dark and cool Western songs — with some lesser-known gems too!
- Western Music Yami Song Rankings [2025]
- When you’re hurting and feel like you want to disappear… timeless Western songs to listen to at times like these
- A collection of emotionally resonant dark-themed Western songs—tracks with lyrics that deeply echo in the heart
- [2025] Handle With Care! Recommended Depressive Black Metal Bands Summary
- Western songs to listen to when you're tired of life: recommended classics and popular tracks
- Popular Depressive Songs: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]
- Ranking of Tear-Jerking Western Songs [2025]
- Western songs to listen to when you feel lonely: world classics and popular hits
- Badass Western music. Tough/edgy music. World classics and recommended popular songs.
- [TikTok] “I know this chorus!” A roundup of popular Western songs on TikTok [2025]
Truly dark… Classic Western songs | So dark that you should beware of depression! (71–80)
Needle In The HayElliott Smith
A track inspired by the effects of heroin use.
One of Elliott Smith’s most famous songs, it was released in 1995.
The track was used in the 2001 film The Royal Tenenbaums and has been covered by many artists.
Rock BottomEminem
A track included on Eminem’s 1999 album The Slim Shady LP.
It was inspired by the worst period of his life.
The album won a Grammy Award and was selected by Rolling Stone for “The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.”
Take Me to ChurchHozier
It’s the lead single from the album Hozier.
Centered on themes of love and religion, the lyrics weave brilliantly sharp metaphors that, while complex, are undeniably compelling.
The music video depicts the oppression of homosexuals, which is heartbreaking and thought-provoking at the same time.
PowerKanye West
It’s the lead single from the album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.
It samples King Crimson’s 21st Century Schizoid Man, and the taste is outstanding.
The artistic music video is a must-see.
You’re guaranteed to be blown away by Kanye’s talent.
Every NightPaul McCartney
A track Paul McCartney wrote while on vacation in Greece.
It was inspired by the anguish surrounding the breakup of The Beatles.
The track appears on his 1970 solo debut album, McCartney.
Jet Black Heart5 Seconds of Summer
This song is included on the album “Sounds Good Feels Good” and was co-produced by band members Michael Clifford and Calum Hood.
As Michael has revealed that it is a very important song to him, its deeply emotional lyrics are truly moving.
… Baby One More TimeBritney Spears
It’s the lead single from the album “…Baby One More Time” and Britney Spears’s debut single.
Hitting No.
1 in both the U.
S.
and the U.
K.
right out of the gate made her a worldwide sensation.
Her fresh, youthful appeal is on full display.