When the world seems like a dark and lonely place, music can be a powerful balm for the soul. Sad songs, in particular, can offer a way to connect with feelings of loss, heartbreak, and sorrow, and find solace in the cathartic power of music. From heart-wrenching ballads to melancholic pop anthems, the right sad song can offer a space for reflection, introspection, and emotional release. Whether you’re going through a tough time or just need a good cry, this list of the 35 Best Sad Songs to Listen to When You’re Feeling Blue has got you covered. Featuring songs from a range of genres, eras, and styles, these tracks offer a powerful and emotional listening experience. So, dim the lights, grab a box of tissues, and let the music do the rest.
1.Say Something – A Great Big World ft. Christina Aguilera
“Say Something” is a heart-wrenching and poignant ballad by American indie pop duo, A Great Big World, featuring vocals from pop superstar Christina Aguilera. The song beautifully captures the feelings of regret, longing, and despair that arise when a relationship is on the brink of falling apart. The minimalist instrumentation, consisting mainly of a piano and strings, provides a simple yet powerful backdrop for the raw and emotional vocals of the singers. The lyrics, which express the vulnerability and pain of both parties involved, are delivered with honesty and sincerity, making the song a relatable and cathartic experience for anyone who has experienced the pain of a failing relationship.
2.Casimir Pulaski Day – Sufjan Stevens
“Casimir Pulaski Day” is a hauntingly beautiful and introspective song by American singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens. The song is a reflection on the death of a loved one, specifically the death of a friend on the holiday named after Polish-American Revolutionary War hero, Casimir Pulaski. The delicate acoustic guitar and Stevens’ gentle, almost whisper-like vocals set a somber tone, perfectly capturing the melancholic mood of the song. Stevens’ vivid and poetic lyrics paint a picture of grief, loss, and searching for meaning in the face of tragedy, making “Casimir Pulaski Day” a deeply moving and emotionally resonant work of art.
3.Everybody Hurts – R.E.M.
“Everybody Hurts” is an emotive and uplifting ballad by American rock band R.E.M. that has become a staple of pop culture since its release in 1992. The song serves as a reminder that everyone experiences pain and heartache, and that it’s okay to feel vulnerable and seek support when times get tough. The band’s distinctive sound, characterized by jangly guitars and Michael Stipe’s distinctive vocals, create a sense of unity and empathy that resonates with listeners of all ages. The lyrics, delivered with heartfelt sincerity, provide a message of hope and encouragement, making “Everybody Hurts” a timeless classic that continues to inspire and comfort people around the world.
4.Someone Like You – Adele
“Someone Like You” is a powerful and emotional ballad by British singer-songwriter Adele that has become an iconic song of heartbreak and lost love. The stripped-down instrumentation consisting of piano and strings, combined with Adele’s soulful vocals, create a poignant and introspective atmosphere that perfectly captures the pain and vulnerability of a broken heart. The lyrics, which are raw and honest, describe the emotions that arise when you come to terms with the fact that a relationship has ended and that there’s no going back. With its relatable lyrics and powerful vocals, “Someone Like You” has become a beloved anthem for anyone who has ever experienced the pain of lost love.
5.When the Party’s Over – Billie Eilish
“When the Party’s Over” is a haunting and introspective ballad by American singer-songwriter Billie Eilish that explores the theme of emotional exhaustion and the feeling of being drained after putting on a facade for others. The song’s minimalist production, characterized by gentle piano notes and subtle beats, sets a somber and melancholic tone that perfectly reflects the mood of the lyrics. Eilish’s signature whisper-like vocals deliver the introspective lyrics with raw emotion, making the song a relatable and cathartic experience for anyone who has ever felt emotionally drained after putting on a show for others. “When the Party’s Over” is a beautiful and poignant work of art that showcases Eilish’s raw talent and artistic vision.
6.Cat’s in the Cradle – Harry Chapin
“Cat’s in the Cradle” is a classic folk-rock song by American singer-songwriter Harry Chapin, which tells a poignant and heart-wrenching story of a father’s regret about not being present in his son’s life. The song’s acoustic guitar-based instrumentation and Chapin’s emotive vocals create an intimate and melancholic atmosphere that perfectly matches the somber and introspective lyrics. The song’s message, that time with loved ones is precious and should be cherished, has resonated with audiences since its release in 1974, making it a timeless classic. “Cat’s in the Cradle” is a deeply emotional and relatable song that serves as a reminder to prioritize the people we love in our lives.
7.Hurt – Johnny Cash
“Hurt” is a raw and emotionally charged ballad by American country music legend Johnny Cash that speaks to the pain, regret, and loneliness of old age. The song was originally written and recorded by the band Nine Inch Nails, but Cash’s version, released in 2002, has become the definitive rendition, thanks to his stirring vocals and the raw, stripped-down instrumentation. Cash’s delivery of the lyrics, which speak to his own mortality and the realization that he has squandered many opportunities in his life, is both vulnerable and powerful. “Hurt” is a haunting and introspective work of art that showcases the raw talent and honesty of Johnny Cash.
8.Skinny Love – Bon Iver
“Skinny Love” is a heart-wrenching and introspective song by American indie-folk band Bon Iver that explores themes of heartbreak and emotional pain. The song’s minimalist instrumentation, characterized by the gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar and the singer’s soulful falsetto vocals, creates a somber and melancholic atmosphere that perfectly matches the mood of the lyrics. The lyrics, which describe the aftermath of a failed relationship, are delivered with raw emotion and honesty, making the song a relatable and cathartic experience for anyone who has ever experienced the pain of heartbreak. “Skinny Love” is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant work of art that showcases Bon Iver’s raw talent and artistic vision.
9.Mad World – Michael Andrews ft. Gary Jules
“Mad World” is a haunting and melancholic cover of a song originally by British band Tears for Fears, performed by American musicians Michael Andrews and Gary Jules. The song’s sparse and minimalist production, characterized by gentle piano notes and the subtle sound of a synthesized beat, creates a somber and introspective atmosphere that perfectly matches the lyrics’ sense of despair and disillusionment. Jules’ fragile and emotive vocals deliver the lyrics with raw honesty and vulnerability, making the song a poignant and relatable experience for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by the world’s challenges. “Mad World” is a powerful and timeless work of art that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
10.Nothing Compares 2 U – Sinéad O’Connor
“Nothing Compares 2 U” is a powerful and emotional ballad by Irish singer-songwriter Sinéad O’Connor that has become an iconic song of lost love and heartbreak. Originally written by Prince, O’Connor’s rendition, released in 1990, is widely regarded as the definitive version, thanks to her soulful and emotive vocals. The song’s minimalist production, consisting mainly of an acoustic guitar and gentle percussion, creates an intimate and melancholic atmosphere that perfectly matches the mood of the lyrics. O’Connor’s delivery of the lyrics, which speak to the pain and longing that arises after a relationship ends, is both vulnerable and powerful. “Nothing Compares 2 U” is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of audiences for decades.
11.Landslide – Fleetwood Mac
“Landslide” is a beautifully crafted and introspective song by British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac that speaks to the fleeting nature of time and the realization that change is an inevitable part of life. The song’s gentle and atmospheric production, characterized by acoustic guitar, soft percussion, and ethereal harmonies, creates an intimate and contemplative atmosphere that perfectly matches the mood of the lyrics. The lyrics, which describe the experience of looking back on one’s life and the bittersweet feelings that arise, are delivered with raw emotion and honesty by lead singer Stevie Nicks. “Landslide” is a timeless classic that has resonated with audiences for generations, thanks to its honest and relatable message.
12.Liability – Lorde
“Liability” is a poignant and introspective ballad by New Zealand singer-songwriter Lorde that explores themes of loneliness, self-doubt, and the difficulties of navigating relationships. The song’s minimalist and atmospheric production, characterized by gentle piano notes and Lorde’s haunting vocals, creates an intimate and melancholic atmosphere that perfectly matches the mood of the lyrics. The lyrics, which describe the experience of feeling like a burden to others and the struggle to find self-acceptance, are delivered with raw emotion and honesty, making the song a relatable and cathartic experience for anyone who has ever felt lost or alone. “Liability” is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant work of art that showcases Lorde’s raw talent and artistic vision.
13.The Scientist – Coldplay
“The Scientist” is a hauntingly beautiful and emotionally resonant song by British rock band Coldplay that explores themes of lost love and regret. The song’s minimalistic and melancholic production, consisting of a piano melody, strings, and understated percussion, creates a somber and introspective atmosphere that perfectly matches the mood of the lyrics. Lead singer Chris Martin’s emotive and soulful vocals deliver the lyrics with raw honesty and vulnerability, making the song a poignant and relatable experience for anyone who has ever experienced heartbreak. “The Scientist” is a timeless classic that continues to connect with audiences around the world and is a testament to Coldplay’s raw talent and artistic vision.
14.I’ll Never Love Again – Lady Gaga
“I’ll Never Love Again” is a powerful and emotionally charged ballad by American singer-songwriter Lady Gaga that serves as the final song in the hit movie “A Star is Born”. The song’s grand and cinematic production, featuring soaring strings, a gentle piano melody, and Gaga’s emotive and soulful vocals, creates a powerful and heartfelt atmosphere that perfectly matches the mood of the lyrics. The song speaks to the pain of losing a loved one and the struggle to move on, and its raw honesty and vulnerability make it a poignant and relatable experience for anyone who has experienced loss or grief. “I’ll Never Love Again” is a testament to Gaga’s raw talent and artistic vision and is a beautiful and touching tribute to the power of love.
15.Traitor – Olivia Rodrigo
“Traitor” is a captivating and emotionally charged ballad by American singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo that speaks to the pain of betrayal and the struggle to come to terms with a broken heart. The song’s stripped-back production, characterized by a gentle guitar melody and Rodrigo’s emotive and soulful vocals, creates an intimate and introspective atmosphere that perfectly matches the mood of the lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe the experience of being deceived by someone you love and the lingering feelings of hurt and confusion that arise, making it a relatable and cathartic experience for anyone who has experienced heartbreak. “Traitor” is a testament to Rodrigo’s raw talent and artistic vision and cements her as a rising star in the music industry.
16.Something in the Way – Nirvana
“Something in the Way” is a haunting and introspective ballad by American rock band Nirvana that speaks to feelings of isolation, despair, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. The song’s minimalist and atmospheric production, characterized by a gentle guitar melody and Kurt Cobain’s haunting and raw vocals, creates a moody and introspective atmosphere that perfectly matches the mood of the lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe the experience of being homeless and the struggles of living on the fringes of society, making it a poignant and powerful social commentary on the harsh realities of life. “Something in the Way” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world and is a testament to Nirvana’s raw talent and artistic vision.
17.Famous Blue Raincoat – Leonard Cohen
“Famous Blue Raincoat” is a haunting and poetic ballad written by the iconic singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen. The song is written as a letter from one man to another, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and forgiveness. The lyrics are rich with vivid imagery and metaphor, evoking a sense of deep longing and regret. The melancholic melody is carried by Cohen’s signature deep, soulful voice and simple guitar strumming, creating a somber and introspective mood. “Famous Blue Raincoat” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing Cohen’s mastery of both songwriting and storytelling.
18.I Know It’s Over – The Smiths
“I Know It’s Over” by The Smiths is a powerful and emotive ballad that captures the pain and loneliness of heartbreak. The song is driven by Morrissey’s soulful and mournful vocals, which express a deep sense of sorrow and resignation. The lyrics are characterized by Morrissey’s signature wit and wordplay, as he reflects on the inevitability of lost love and the harsh realities of romantic relationships. The melancholic melody is beautifully arranged, featuring lush orchestration and sweeping strings that add to the song’s emotional weight. “I Know It’s Over” is a standout track in The Smiths’ discography, and a testament to the band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music.
19.Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton
“Tears in Heaven” is a poignant and heart-wrenching ballad written by the legendary guitarist and singer-songwriter Eric Clapton. The song was written as a tribute to Clapton’s young son, who tragically passed away in a fall from a high-rise apartment. The lyrics express Clapton’s deep grief and struggle to come to terms with the loss, and question the nature of God and the afterlife. The melody is gentle and reflective, with Clapton’s soulful vocals accompanied by acoustic guitar and soft piano. “Tears in Heaven” is a touching and personal tribute that has resonated with audiences around the world, becoming one of Clapton’s most beloved and enduring songs.
20.Ocean Breathes Salty – Sun Kil Moon
“Ocean Breathes Salty” is a poetic and introspective indie rock song by Sun Kil Moon, the solo project of singer-songwriter Mark Kozelek. The song explores themes of mortality and the impermanence of life, using vivid imagery and metaphor to convey its message. Kozelek’s subdued vocals are complemented by the song’s gentle guitar picking and atmospheric soundscapes, creating a dreamy and melancholic mood. The chorus, with its memorable hook and layered harmonies, offers a glimmer of hope in the face of life’s uncertainties. “Ocean Breathes Salty” is a standout track in Sun Kil Moon’s discography, showcasing Kozelek’s talent for crafting deeply personal and evocative music.
21.When I Was Your Man – Bruno Mars
“When I Was Your Man” is a heart-wrenching pop ballad written and performed by the acclaimed singer-songwriter Bruno Mars. The song reflects on a past relationship and the regret and sorrow that comes with realizing the mistakes made along the way. The lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, with Mars showcasing his vocal range and emotive delivery. The minimalist arrangement, with its gentle piano melody and restrained percussion, underscores the song’s emotional weight. “When I Was Your Man” is a poignant and relatable track that has resonated with audiences around the world, cementing Mars’ reputation as one of the most talented pop artists of his generation.
22.How to Disappear Completely – Radiohead
“How to Disappear Completely” is a haunting and ethereal art rock song by the iconic British band Radiohead. The song’s lyrics express a sense of disillusionment and detachment, as the narrator searches for a way to escape the harsh realities of the world around them. Thom Yorke’s falsetto vocals are both plaintive and otherworldly, adding to the song’s dreamlike atmosphere. The lush arrangement, featuring strings, horns, and delicate guitar arpeggios, creates a sense of grandeur and melancholic beauty. “How to Disappear Completely” is a masterpiece of mood and tone, showcasing Radiohead’s gift for crafting evocative and emotionally resonant music.
23.Fix You – Coldplay
“Fix You” is an emotive and uplifting rock ballad by the acclaimed British band Coldplay. The song’s lyrics offer a message of hope and support to a loved one in distress, urging them to keep going and promising to help them heal. Chris Martin’s powerful and emotive vocals are supported by the song’s dynamic arrangement, with its gradually building crescendos and soaring guitar solos. The chorus, with its memorable hook and layered harmonies, offers a glimmer of hope in the face of adversity. “Fix You” is a timeless classic that has resonated with audiences around the world, showcasing Coldplay’s talent for crafting heartfelt and anthemic music
24.Let Her Go – Passenger
“Let Her Go” is a beautifully crafted folk-pop ballad by British singer-songwriter Passenger. The song is an introspective meditation on the fragility of relationships and the pain of lost love. The lyrics are characterized by vivid imagery and metaphor, exploring themes of regret, acceptance, and emotional growth. The stripped-down arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar and subtle instrumentation, perfectly complements the song’s melancholic mood. Passenger’s emotive and soulful vocals add a sense of vulnerability and honesty to the track, making it an enduring classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world. “Let Her Go” is a testament to the power of music to touch the heart and soul.
25.Let Somebody Go – Coldplay ft. Selena Gomez
“Let Somebody Go” is a dreamy and soulful collaboration between Coldplay and pop superstar Selena Gomez. The song’s lyrics explore the complex emotions of a relationship that has run its course, urging the other person to move on and find happiness elsewhere. The vocals of Chris Martin and Selena Gomez complement each other perfectly, creating a harmonious and heartfelt duet. The arrangement is characterized by a lush orchestration, with its soaring strings, pulsing bass, and atmospheric synths adding to the song’s emotional depth. “Let Somebody Go” is a standout track in Coldplay’s discography, showcasing their talent for crafting evocative and memorable music.
26.Lost Cause – Beck
“Lost Cause” is a melancholic and introspective alternative rock song by the innovative singer-songwriter Beck. The song’s lyrics express a sense of emotional turmoil and resignation, as the narrator reflects on a failed relationship and the feelings of loss that come with it. Beck’s restrained and emotive vocals are supported by a stripped-down arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar and subtle instrumentation, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The chorus, with its memorable hook and layered harmonies, adds to the song’s emotional weight. “Lost Cause” is a standout track in Beck’s discography, showcasing his gift for crafting deeply personal and evocative music.
27.Somebody That I Used to Know – Gotye
“Somebody That I Used to Know” is a Grammy-winning indie pop hit by Belgian-Australian musician Gotye. The song’s lyrics capture the complex emotions of a failed relationship, exploring themes of heartbreak, resentment, and regret. The track features a memorable duet with New Zealand singer-songwriter Kimbra, with both artists showcasing their vocal range and emotive delivery. The song’s instrumentation, which includes a distinctive xylophone riff and layered acoustic guitars, adds to its catchy and memorable appeal. “Somebody That I Used to Know” is a standout track in Gotye’s discography, a timeless classic that has resonated with audiences around the world and earned its place as one of the defining pop hits of the 2010s.
28.Teardrop – Massive Attack
“Teardrop” is an iconic and atmospheric trip-hop song by the influential British group Massive Attack. The song’s haunting vocals, sung by Elizabeth Fraser of the Cocteau Twins, are supported by a minimalist electronic beat and atmospheric soundscapes, creating an otherworldly and dreamlike quality. The lyrics explore themes of loss and sadness, with the teardrop serving as a metaphor for the fragility of life. “Teardrop” is a masterful example of the power of mood and atmosphere in music, creating a sense of ethereal beauty that has resonated with listeners for decades and solidified Massive Attack’s status as pioneers of the trip-hop genre.
29.Love Will Tear Us Apart – Joy Division
“Love Will Tear Us Apart” is a post-punk classic by the pioneering British band Joy Division. The song’s lyrics explore the disintegration of a relationship, with a sense of bleakness and despair pervading the track. The distinctive bassline, played by Peter Hook, provides a haunting and memorable foundation for the song, while Ian Curtis’s emotive vocals add to the sense of melancholy. The chorus, with its memorable refrain “Love, love will tear us apart again,” has become one of the most iconic in rock history. “Love Will Tear Us Apart” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world, showcasing Joy Division’s talent for crafting haunting and emotive music.
30.I Can’t Make You Love Me – Bonnie Raitt
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a heartbreaking and soulful ballad by American singer-songwriter Bonnie Raitt. The song’s lyrics explore the pain of unrequited love, with the narrator accepting the reality that she cannot force someone to return her feelings. Raitt’s emotive and powerful vocals are accompanied by a sparse and elegant arrangement, featuring a piano and restrained instrumentation that adds to the song’s emotional weight. The chorus, with its memorable refrain “I can’t make you love me if you don’t,” has become a classic line in pop culture. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a standout track in Raitt’s discography, showcasing her talent for conveying raw and genuine emotions through her music.
31.Pale Blue Eyes – The Velvet Underground
“Pale Blue Eyes” is a bittersweet and introspective ballad by the groundbreaking American rock band The Velvet Underground. The song’s lyrics express a sense of longing and regret, as the narrator reflects on a past love affair that has ended. Lou Reed’s emotive and understated vocals are supported by a stripped-down arrangement, featuring gentle acoustic guitar and subdued percussion. The chorus, with its memorable and heartfelt hook, adds to the song’s emotional weight. “Pale Blue Eyes” is a timeless classic in The Velvet Underground’s discography, a beautiful and poignant meditation on the complexities of love and heartbreak.
32.Leaving New York – R.E.M.
“Leaving New York” is a poignant and introspective ballad by the legendary American rock band R.E.M. The song’s lyrics explore the emotions of departure and change, as the narrator reflects on leaving a familiar place behind. Michael Stipe’s emotive vocals are supported by a memorable and understated arrangement, featuring gentle acoustic guitar and lush string arrangements. The chorus, with its memorable and wistful refrain “It’s easier to leave than to be left behind,” has become a standout moment in R.E.M.’s discography. “Leaving New York” is a beautiful and heartfelt meditation on the complexities of saying goodbye, showcasing R.E.M.’s talent for crafting emotive and evocative music.
33.A Case Of You – Joni Mitchell
“A Case of You” is a beautiful and poetic folk ballad by Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell. The song’s lyrics are a heartfelt meditation on love and devotion, as the narrator compares her connection to a lover to the effects of wine on the body. Mitchell’s evocative and emotive vocals are supported by an elegant and understated arrangement, featuring gentle acoustic guitar and piano. The chorus, with its memorable refrain “I could drink a case of you and still be on my feet,” has become a classic line in popular culture. “A Case of You” is a timeless classic in Mitchell’s discography, showcasing her talent for crafting beautiful and affecting music.
34.Shallow – Bradley Cooper
“Shallow” is a powerful and emotive duet by American actor and director Bradley Cooper and pop star Lady Gaga, featured in the hit film “A Star is Born.” The song’s lyrics explore the feelings of vulnerability and passion between two lovers, as they sing about diving into the deep end of their relationship. Cooper and Gaga’s soulful and passionate vocals are supported by a stirring and memorable arrangement, featuring a driving beat, soaring harmonies, and a memorable guitar riff. “Shallow” has become a beloved hit single and a standout moment in “A Star is Born,” showcasing Cooper and Gaga’s chemistry and talent for crafting powerful and affecting music.
35.The Trapeze Swinger – Iron & Wine
“The Trapeze Swinger” is a beautiful and contemplative folk ballad by American singer-songwriter Iron & Wine. The song’s lyrics explore the themes of love, loss, and memory, as the narrator reflects on the fleeting and unpredictable nature of life. Sam Beam’s understated and emotive vocals are supported by a lush and intricate arrangement, featuring gentle acoustic guitar, sweeping strings, and atmospheric soundscapes. The chorus, with its memorable and poetic imagery, adds to the song’s emotional weight. “The Trapeze Swinger” is a standout moment in Iron & Wine’s discography, a haunting and affecting meditation on the complexities of the human experience.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
