Recommended male heartbreak songs in Western music. World-famous classics and popular tracks.

Heaven Knows I’m Miserable NowThe Smiths

The Smiths – Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now (Official Music Video)

One of The Smiths’ signature songs released as a single.

In the UK, it reached number 10 on the charts.

It’s a typically Morrissey-esque, contrarian number; from the music video’s bouquet attached to his backside to the breakup theme, it’s anything but sentimental.

Be Nice to MeTodd Rundgren

Todd Rundgren – Be Nice To Me

A single cut from the second album, Runt.

It didn’t make much of a hit, but it’s a beautiful ballad that showcases Rundgren’s trademarks.

As always, he plays almost all the instruments (except bass and drums).

The production is also by him.

Always on My MindWillie Nelson

Willie Nelson – Always On My Mind

There’s a difference in how Willie Nelson is perceived in Japan and the U.

S.

, and his reputation in America as a “maverick of the country scene” hasn’t really made its way here.

Because his song was used in a commercial, in Japan Willie Nelson is essentially associated with this ballad.

Wild WorldJimmy Cliff

Jimmy Cliff – Wild World (1970)

The original is by Cat Stevens, who also wrote the lyrics and composed the music.

This Jimmy Cliff version was released as a single just a few months after Cat’s original was released, and it became a Top Ten hit in the UK.

You’ve Lost That Loving FeelingThe Righteous Brothers

You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling Righteous Brothers REMASTERED TRUE STEREO HiQ Hybrid JARichardsFilm

A hit song produced by Phil Spector.

It reached number one in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

Considered a prime example of Spector’s so-called “Wall of Sound,” its densely layered instrumentation and echo are striking.

I Can’t Tell You WhyThe Eagles

Eagles – I Can’t Tell You Why [w/ lyrics]

A track included on the album The Long Run.

Unusually, it features Timothy B.

Schmit on lead vocals instead of Don Henley or Glenn Frey.

It was released as a single and became a major hit, and it was the last Eagles song to make the Top 10.

I’m Still StandingElton John

I’m Still Standing

A single cut from the album “Too Low for Zero.” The music video directed by Russell Mulcahy—who later moved into filmmaking—garnered attention, and for Elton John it became a major hit following “Are You Ready for Love?” It’s also frequently performed live.