Breakup songs in Western music that I want to sing at karaoke: world classics and popular hits

Cry Me A RiverJustin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake – Cry Me A River (Official Video)

It’s a heartbreak song whose lyrics sound like a grudge against someone who betrayed you, paired with a melody that feels uncannily real.

It earnestly sings of emotions so wounded that the tears you shed could form a river.

If you want to blow off steam from a breakup at karaoke, immersing yourself completely in a world this dark might not be a bad idea.

When She Was MineLawson

Lawson – When She Was Mine

A song by the British rock band Lawson.

As the title “When She Was Mine” suggests, it portrays the anguish of being unable to forget an ex-lover.

With its fast-paced melody and dynamic sound, it’s a track you can sing without getting too sentimental.

How Do I BreathMario

Mario – How Do I Breathe (Official Video)

A mellow breakup song by R&B singer Mario.

It sings about realizing the importance of someone only after losing them, and the regret that follows.

He delivers the pain—so intense he “doesn’t know how to breathe”—with a sweet voice.

The melody stays steady, so I think it’s an easy song to sing.

Don’t Wanna KnowMaroon5 ft kendrick lamar

Maroon 5 – Don’t Wanna Know (Official Music Video)

A Maroon 5 breakup song that lays bare the lingering feelings of “I don’t want to hear how my ex is doing.” Its catchy melody and laid-back sound stick in your head.

The music video featuring mysterious headgear also made waves.

It’s easy to sing and a real crowd-pleaser.

So SickNe-Yo

Ne-Yo – So Sick (Official Music Video)

A quintessential heart-wrenching breakup song sung by a male artist: Ne-Yo’s massive hit.

Many of you have probably heard it, so it’s a great one to pick for karaoke.

It expresses the pain of heartbreak with the line, “I don’t want to hear love songs anymore.”

Story Of My LifeOne Direction

One Direction – Story of My Life

An emotional breakup song by the hugely popular boy group One Direction.

The song portrays the confusion of realizing that the life he had imagined with his girlfriend is gone, yet its refreshing melody conveys a sense of optimism, making it feel like a page from their youth that’s quintessentially them.

Let Her GoPassenger

Passenger | Let Her Go (Official Video)

A famous song by Passenger that became a huge hit after he disbanded his band and began his solo career.

It sings about realizing his feelings for a lover only after losing them.

His wistful voice and the sound of the guitar resonate with melancholy in this love song.

It’s a very beautiful piece, so be sure to give it a try.