Western songs about saying “goodbye” — perfect for bereavement or a departed lover
Suddenly, have you ever felt that there are surprisingly few Western songs themed around “goodbye” that you can truly relate to?
In life, there are many kinds of farewells—breakups, bereavement, and more, even though they all fall under the same word: goodbye.
It’s the same with music.
Even when a song shares the theme of bereavement, it can be surprisingly hard to find lyrics that resonate with your own experience.
So this time, we’ve picked out a variety of Western songs themed around “goodbye,” focusing especially on tracks about loss and departed lovers.
From brand-new releases to timeless classics, we’ve selected from a wide range of eras—so you’re sure to find something that fits you perfectly!
Please sit back, relax, and enjoy.
Western songs about saying “goodbye” — perfect for bereavement or a lost lover (1–10)
See You Again ft. Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa
Wiz Khalifa, who established the genre of stoner rap and solidified his worldwide popularity.
In this song “See You Again ft.
Charlie Puth,” created as a tie-in for a Hollywood film, the theme is farewell.
The lyrics, which evoke the sorrow of parting—one that feels like a death—are written not from the perspective of an outlaw or a gangster, but as a single man, and are filled with pain.
Yet there’s no dreariness; thanks to the floating, airy feel characteristic of stoner rap, the track remains easy to listen to.
Someone Like YouAdele
Adele’s classic song “Someone Like You.” Released in 2011 as her second major work, it became a worldwide smash hit.
Recognized for its success, it won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance.
The lyrics of “Someone Like You” depict a woman thinking one last time about a man she parted ways with for one reason or another.
Because the lyrics are abstract, they can also be interpreted as addressing bereavement.
If you’re trying to move on from someone from your past, be sure to give it a listen.
Goodbye To YouMichelle Branch
Michelle Branch is a singer-songwriter from Arizona who has gained popularity for her catchy blend of genres like country, pop, and pop-rock.
Her renowned song “Goodbye to You” is about resolving to let go of lingering feelings and memories for a man she parted ways with for one reason or another.
Since the lyrics are abstract, it might be nice to listen while reflecting on your own experiences.
Tears in HeavenEric Clapton
Eric Clapton’s classic song “Tears in Heaven.” The title means “tears in heaven,” and it was used as an insert song in the 1991 film “Rush.” Famous as a song about bereavement, it was written for Clapton’s late son.
Because it was created from real experience, its lyrics have a raw authenticity that fiction can’t replicate.
In particular, the line “Dad has to be strong” is especially moving and brings tears to the eyes.
Goodbye My LoverJames Blunt
James Blunt, the British singer-songwriter who scored a global smash with “You’re Beautiful,” has created numerous ballads over the years.
Among his songs, one I especially recommend as a masterpiece about saying goodbye is “Goodbye My Lover.” It portrays the aching feelings of a man who senses his lover’s affection for him is fading.
The lyrics pierce the heart, and the melody is intricately crafted down to the smallest details—be sure to give it a listen.
Time To Say GoodbyeAndrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman
A duet by two of the most celebrated singers from Italy and the United Kingdom is moving hearts around the world.
The majestic melody woven by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman powerfully conveys hope and resolve for a new beginning.
Performed in November 1996 at a boxer’s retirement match, the piece became an instant hit.
In Germany in particular, it sold over 2.
75 million copies, setting an all-time sales record.
To this day, it remains beloved as a song that accompanies life’s milestones—such as weddings and send-offs—standing by people at those pivotal moments.
Never Say GoodbyeBon Jovi
Bon Jovi is a hard rock band that represents America and is also very well-known in Japan.
Their renowned classic “Never Say Goodbye,” released in 1986, became popular as a moving power ballad.
Centered on the theme of farewell, the song conveys the frustrating feeling of having to say goodbye but not being able to bring yourself to do it.