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.
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Western songs about saying “goodbye”: perfect for bereavement and lost lovers (11–20)
StitchesShawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes is a Canadian singer-songwriter who has gained worldwide popularity with his sweet vocal tone and catchy lyrics and melodies.
He has produced numerous hit songs.
Among them, one of his most popular breakup-themed works is Stitches.
This song can be interpreted in two ways: one is heartbreak, and the other depicts bereavement—portraying a man who has had an accident and is about to die, thinking of the girlfriend he’s leaving behind.
Songs told from the perspective of the one who’s dying are rare, so be sure to check it out.
Slipped AwayAvril Lavigne
A moving ballad that leaves a lasting mark on the heart.
Canadian songstress Avril Lavigne sings with profound love for her late grandfather.
Feelings of loss, regret, and the hope of reunion are expressed quietly yet powerfully.
The song was included on the album Under My Skin, released in May 2004.
The album sold about 8 million copies worldwide and reached number one in 13 countries, marking a turning point that showcased a shift in Avril’s musical direction.
It’s a song I can wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who has experienced the loss of someone dear.
You’re Somebody Elseflora cash
A melancholic song that portrays a dialogue with oneself has garnered worldwide attention as the signature work of the Swedish-American duo Flora Cash.
Released in April 2017, the piece delicately expresses deep-seated anxieties and self-doubt, resonating with many listeners.
It gained momentum after being featured in a Mexican commercial and went on to reach No.
1 on the U.
S.
Alternative Radio chart.
In August 2018, they made their television debut on The Late Late Show with James Corden.
With poignant lyrics and a beautiful melody, it’s a track you’ll want to listen to when facing yourself or on a quiet night.
Stay ft. Mikky EkkoRihanna
This song by Barbadian songstress Rihanna is a moving ballad that portrays intense attachment to a loved one and the inner turmoil it brings.
Set to a simple accompaniment of piano and bass guitar, the emotionally rich vocals of Rihanna and Mikky Ekko resonate throughout.
Released as a single in France in December 2012, it reached high positions on the charts in many countries.
Featured on the album Unapologetic, it was also performed at the 2013 Grammy Awards, where the powerful, emotional rendition drew widespread attention.
As a song that empathizes with those suffering the pain of heartbreak or unable to let go, it has resonated with many listeners.
If You Could See Me NowThe Script
The Script are a three-piece band from Ireland.
They were active mainly from the 2000s to the 2010s, and their rock sound with a strong pop flavor is quite striking.
One of their works themed around “farewell” is If You Could See Me Now.
The song was written for their late father, expressing the bittersweet feelings of a son who wishes his dad could see him now that he’s on stage as an artist.
The lyrics are very real, so be sure to give it a listen.
Let Me Go ft. Chad KroegerAvril Lavigne
Avril Lavigne’s classic, “Let Me Go ft.
Chad Kroeger.” Since she’s known as a leading figure in pop-punk, many people tend to associate her with brighter, upbeat songs.
This track, however, is a rare piece among her works: a song built on a wistful melody that centers around the theme of saying goodbye.
Its lyrics, which depict the sorrow of someone left with a gaping hole in their heart after losing a loved one, together with the melody, make for a deeply memorable work.
Western songs that sing “Goodbye” | Perfect for bereavement or a lost lover (21–30)
Closing TimeSemisonic
Semisonic, an alternative rock band popular in the United States.
Their well-known classic “Closing Time,” released in 1998, became a major hit—topping Billboard’s Modern Rock chart and reaching high positions in Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland.
Its philosophical lyrics and emotionally resonant melody perfectly capture the mood of saying goodbye.
Be sure to check it out.