When you’re hurting and feel like you want to disappear… timeless Western songs to listen to at times like these
The power of music is tremendous—sometimes just listening to a song when you’re feeling down can lift your spirits.
However, it’s rare to come across songs like that, and it’s not easy to find tracks that truly match your tastes.
In particular, I think Western music is harder to discover compared to Japanese music.
So this time, I’ve selected some classic Western songs for those moments when you’re struggling or feel like disappearing.
I’ve also included explanations of the lyrics, so even if you don’t understand English, you can still enjoy them without any trouble.
Please take your time and enjoy.
I’m hurting, I want to disappear… Western music masterpieces to listen to at times like these (1–10)
MemoriesMaroon 5
Maroon 5’s “Memories,” with its familiar, canon-like melody, is actually a song dedicated to those who have passed away.
Phrases in the lyrics like “a toast to the ones we lost” and “every time I drink, I think of you” hit straight to the heart.
Everyone experiences parting, but the miracle of having met that person and the gratitude you feel seep through the lyrics and the gentle melody.
It’s a song that makes you strongly feel the presence of family, friends, and loved ones who are no longer with us.
Wake Me UpAvicii
Avicii’s track “Wake Me Up” features an unusually country-flavored sound for dance music, and just listening to its melody can put you in a bright, uplifting mood.
While the title literally means “wake me up,” the song actually has deeply meaningful lyrics that portray the struggles of someone living between reality and dreams.
Centered around the key phrase “Wake Me Up,” it’s a song that can serve as a guiding light when you’re lost about your dreams or which path to take.
Bad DayDaniel Powter
There are days when you feel down, like nothing you do works out.
On days like that, I want you to listen to Daniel Powter’s “Bad Day.” It’s a message song that encourages you when you’re about to give up, thinking nothing you do goes right, by saying, “Today was just an unlucky day.” The gentle vocals, the piano tone, and the warmth of the ensemble will wrap around you.
Even when you’re feeling low, after listening you’ll be able to lift your head—an encouragement song full of kindness.
You’re BeautifulJames Blunt
This is a moving song about unrequited love by British singer-songwriter James Blunt.
Released in May 2005, it was inspired by his experience of unexpectedly seeing a former lover on the subway with a new partner.
Featured on the album “Back to Bedlam,” it became a major hit, reaching number one in 13 countries worldwide.
In Japan, it was used as an insert song for the Fuji TV drama “Kobayakawa Nobuki no Koi” and as a commercial song for the Toyota Vitz.
Although it may sound romantic at first, it actually conveys bittersweet feelings and complex emotions, resonating deeply with those who have experienced heartbreak or parting.
Girl on FireAlicia Keys
When you feel like you’re about to be overwhelmed by hardship, this is a song that awakens your inner strength and gives you the courage to rise.
Released by American artist Alicia Keys in September 2012, it powerfully portrays an ordinary girl igniting her passion and overcoming adversity.
Featured on the album “Girl on Fire,” the track captured hearts worldwide following its debut at the MTV Video Music Awards.
While rooted in R&B, it’s distinguished by its innovative sound that incorporates elements of electro and hip-hop.
It’s a song I highly recommend when you’re losing sight of your own worth or when you’ve hit a wall and can’t move forward.
Fix YouColdplay
Deep setbacks and losses that everyone experiences in life.
In such times, there is a comforting ballad released in September 2005 by the British rock band Coldplay.
It gently sings of the desire to stay by the side of someone lost in sorrow and to support them.
Included on the album X&Y, the song delivers a powerful message that one can find a light of hope, accompanied by a gradually swelling, majestic sound.
It is also known for being performed at Steve Jobs’s memorial service, and it continues to be cherished by many as a song that brings healing to wounded hearts.
When you are at the depths of despair, or when you wish to support someone dear to you, it will be a piece that resonates deeply in your heart.
PompeiiBastille
The British indie pop band Bastille has released a track distinguished by its powerful rhythm and sweeping melody.
Inspired by Pompeii, the Roman city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, it offers a unique perspective on the loss of purpose in everyday life and the inner struggle of self-discovery.
Released in January 2013 from the album Bad Blood, the song became a major hit, reaching No.
2 on the UK Singles Chart and No.
5 in the United States.
With its warm sound that gently embraces those carrying sorrow and loneliness, it serves as a reassuring companion that stands by you when your spirit is on the verge of breaking, encouraging you to keep looking forward.