Farewell and goodbye songs in Western music: A roundup of perfect BGM for farewell parties

Leave Me in the DarkAlexander Stewart

Alexander Stewart – Leave Me in the Dark (Official Music Video)

“Leave Me in the Dark,” sung by Alexander Stewart, is another must-check-out track.

This slow ballad centers on heartbreak and portrays a woman laying bare her feelings for a man who has left her.

A distinctive aspect is the somewhat hazy situation where she doesn’t understand why he walked away.

Try listening as you overlay that unresolved frustration with the loneliness of the breakup.

BoatEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Boat [Official Video]

It’s a song notable for its poignant melody and emotional vocals.

It’s a track from Ed Sheeran’s new album “- (Subtract),” released in May 2023.

The work was created by overcoming personal trials, and that experience seems to be reflected in the lyrics.

The music video—featuring striking scenes of being swallowed by waves—has also been released.

I think it’s a song that offers comfort to those who have experienced heartbreak or separation.

It’s also recommended for anyone facing a farewell with someone important.

Ed Sheeran’s soulful singing will surely give you strength.

Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)Green Day

Green Day – Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) [Official Music Video] [4K UPGRADE]

Green Day, a punk rock band indispensable when discussing the rock scene of the 1990s.

“Photograph,” included on their 1997 release Nimrod, is a song that depicts life’s turning points.

Its acoustic sound is striking, resonating alongside beautiful strings.

The lyrics, which portray life, are warm and will envelop listeners’ hearts.

It’s recommended not only for rock fans but also for those who enjoy classical and folk.

If you’re looking for a song for farewell party slideshows or entrance/exit music, give it a try.

Tongue TiedGrouplove

Grouplove – Tongue Tied [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

This is a song by Grouplove, an indie rock band from Los Angeles, USA, which gained attention after being used in a 2011 iPod touch TV commercial.

It’s a great track for when you want to fully enjoy the day of a farewell party.

GraduateThird Eye Blind

Third Eye Blind – Graduate

As the title suggests, this is a graduation-themed song by Third Eye Blind, an alternative rock band from San Francisco, USA, with a heavy sound and a grunge-tinged vibe.

Despite their heaviness, the melodies are catchy, so it should appeal to just about anyone.

With A Little Help From My FriendsThe Beatles

With A Little Help From My Friends (Remastered 2009)

The Beatles are a world-famous rock band that everyone knows.

Their song “With a Little Help from My Friends” seems perfect for a farewell party.

Its message is that you can get through anything with just a little help from your friends.

And since it’s the Beatles, people of all ages know it, so it should work well in any situation.

Baba O’RileyThe Who

The Who – Baba O’riley

The Who, the quintessential British mod band and eternal teenagers.

For a farewell party, songs that let you savor the sadness and bring tears are nice, but I think a positive song like this—don’t cry, let’s keep moving forward—works well too.