Few emotions are as universally felt as the ache of missing someone. Whether it’s a loved one who has passed away, a friend who has moved away, or a romantic partner who is no longer in our lives, the feeling of longing and emptiness can be overwhelming. One way that people have been able to express these complex emotions is through music. From ballads to upbeat pop hits, countless songs have been written about missing someone.
These songs often touch on the pain and sadness that comes with separation, but also the hope and yearning for a reunion. Some of the most iconic songs about missing someone include classics like “Yesterday” by The Beatles and “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston, as well as newer hits like “Someone Like You” by Adele and “All Too Well” by Taylor Swift. These songs have the power to transport us back in time, to memories of the people we miss, and to help us process our feelings of loss.
In this article, we will explore some of the most beloved songs about missing someone. We will look at the different ways that artists have approached this theme and examine how their music has resonated with listeners. Whether you are feeling the ache of missing someone yourself or simply enjoy powerful and emotive music, this article is sure to provide some insight and inspiration.
1. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
“Wish You Were Here” is a song by English rock band Pink Floyd, released in 1975. The song is a tribute to the band’s former member Syd Barrett, who had left the group years earlier due to mental health issues. The track is characterized by its acoustic guitar and emotional lyrics, which speak to the pain and longing that comes with missing someone. The song has become one of Pink Floyd’s most beloved hits and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its poignant melody and poignant lyrics continue to resonate with listeners around the world.
2. “Miss You” by The Rolling Stones
“Miss You” is a disco-influenced song by English rock band The Rolling Stones, released in 1978. The track features a prominent bass line and a catchy chorus, with lyrics that express the band’s longing for a lover who is not with them. The song is notable for its blend of rock and disco elements, which was a departure from The Rolling Stones’ earlier sound. “Miss You” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in the US and the UK. Its upbeat rhythm and infectious melody continue to make it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio.
3. “So Far Away” by Dire Straits
“So Far Away” is a song by British rock band Dire Straits, released in 1985. The track features a melodic guitar riff and poignant lyrics about missing someone who is far away. The song has a mellow and introspective feel, with frontman Mark Knopfler’s smooth vocals conveying a sense of yearning and melancholy. “So Far Away” was a commercial and critical success, and is considered one of the band’s most iconic hits. Its introspective mood and relatable lyrics continue to make it a favorite among fans of classic rock and heartfelt ballads.
4. “Missing You” by Steve Perry
“Missing You” is a power ballad by American singer and former Journey frontman Steve Perry, released in 1994. The track features Perry’s signature soaring vocals and an emotional melody, with lyrics that express his longing for a lover who is no longer with him. The song’s production is relatively sparse, with the focus on Perry’s vocals and the raw emotion that he brings to the lyrics. “Missing You” was a commercial success and remains a favorite among fans of classic rock ballads. Its heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals continue to resonate with listeners who have experienced the pain of missing someone.
5. “I Just Don’t Know What To Do With Myself” by The White Stripes
“I Just Don’t Know What To Do With Myself” is a cover song by American rock duo The White Stripes, released in 2003. Originally written by Burt Bacharach and made famous by Dusty Springfield in 1964, the track features a melancholic melody and introspective lyrics about a person who is lost and directionless without their lover. The White Stripes’ version of the song is notable for its stripped-down production and Jack White’s raw vocals, which bring a sense of vulnerability and emotional depth to the track. The song has become a staple of the band’s live shows and a fan favorite among their discography.
6. “Far Away” by Nickelback
“Far Away” is a power ballad by Canadian rock band Nickelback, released in 2005. The track features a slow and emotional melody, with lyrics that express the pain and loneliness of being separated from a loved one. The song’s production is relatively minimal, with the focus on Chad Kroeger’s heartfelt vocals and the simple acoustic guitar accompaniment. “Far Away” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Its raw emotion and relatable lyrics continue to make it a fan favorite and a staple of rock ballad playlists.
7. “I’ll Be Missing You” by Puff Daddy featuring Faith Evans
“I’ll Be Missing You” is a hip-hop and R&B song by American rapper and producer Puff Daddy (now known as Diddy) featuring Faith Evans and 112. Released in 1997, the track samples the melody from “Every Breath You Take” by The Police and is a tribute to the late rapper Notorious B.I.G., who was murdered earlier that year. The song’s lyrics express Puff Daddy’s grief and longing for his friend and collaborator, with Evans’s soulful vocals adding a poignant touch. “I’ll Be Missing You” was a commercial and critical success, winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. Its emotional lyrics and memorable sample continue to make it a classic hip-hop and R&B hit.
8. “Thinkin’ Bout You” by Ariana Grande
“Thinkin’ Bout You” is a ballad by American singer Ariana Grande, released in 2013. The track features a minimalistic production, with a slow and emotional melody that showcases Grande’s soaring vocals. The song’s lyrics express the pain and longing of missing someone who has left, with Grande’s voice conveying a sense of vulnerability and emotional depth. “Thinkin’ Bout You” was a critical and commercial success, cementing Grande’s status as a rising star in the music industry. Its raw emotion and intimate feel continue to make it a fan favorite and a standout track in Grande’s discography.
9. “Miss You Like Crazy” by Natalie Cole
“Miss You Like Crazy” is a pop and R&B song by American singer Natalie Cole, released in 1989. The track features a catchy melody and soulful vocals, with lyrics that express the pain of missing a former lover. The song’s production is relatively upbeat, with a lively rhythm section and a saxophone solo that adds a touch of nostalgia. “Miss You Like Crazy” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus continue to make it a fan favorite and a classic of the late 80s and early 90s pop era.
10. “The Bed’s Too Big Without You” by The Police
“The Bed’s Too Big Without You” is a post-punk and new wave song by English rock band The Police, released in 1979. The track features a reggae-inspired rhythm and sparse production, with Sting’s distinctive vocals conveying the pain and loneliness of missing a former lover. The song’s lyrics play with the metaphor of a bed that is too large and empty, underscoring the sense of loss and longing in the track. “The Bed’s Too Big Without You” was a fan favorite and a standout track on The Police’s album “Reggatta de Blanc”. Its infectious rhythm and evocative lyrics continue to make it a classic of the band’s discography.
11. “I Need My Girl” by The National
“I Need My Girl” is an indie rock song by American band The National, released in 2013. The track features a haunting melody, with frontman Matt Berninger’s distinctive baritone vocals conveying a sense of melancholy and longing. The song’s lyrics explore the pain and confusion of a failing relationship, with Berninger’s vocals expressing a raw vulnerability that adds to the track’s emotional depth. “I Need My Girl” was a critical and commercial success, cementing The National’s status as one of the most acclaimed indie rock bands of the early 2010s. Its raw emotion and haunting melody continue to make it a fan favorite and a standout track in the band’s discography.
12. “Reminds Me of You” by Van Morrison
“Reminds Me of You” is a soulful ballad by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison, released in 1982. The track features a classic rock and R&B sound, with Morrison’s soulful vocals conveying a sense of heartache and nostalgia. The song’s lyrics explore the memories and emotions that are triggered by familiar objects and places, underscoring the sense of loss and longing in the track. “Reminds Me of You” was a fan favorite and a standout track on Morrison’s album “Beautiful Vision”. Its emotive lyrics and soulful sound continue to make it a classic of Morrison’s discography.
13. “Lay Me Down” by Sam Smith
“Lay Me Down” is a soulful ballad by British singer-songwriter Sam Smith, released in 2013. The track features a minimalist piano arrangement and Smith’s emotive vocals, which express the pain and longing of missing a former lover. The song’s lyrics explore the depths of grief and heartache, with Smith’s voice conveying a sense of raw vulnerability that adds to the track’s emotional depth. “Lay Me Down” was a commercial and critical success, propelling Smith to international stardom and earning him widespread acclaim. Its emotive lyrics and soulful sound continue to make it a fan favorite and a standout track in Smith’s discography.
14. “Always” by Bon Jovi
“Always” is a power ballad by American rock band Bon Jovi, released in 1994. The track features a soaring melody, with lead singer Jon Bon Jovi’s vocals conveying a sense of pain and regret. The song’s lyrics explore the enduring pain of lost love and the desire to hold onto hope despite overwhelming odds. “Always” was a commercial and critical success, becoming one of Bon Jovi’s most beloved songs and a staple of their live performances. Its anthemic chorus and heartfelt lyrics continue to make it a fan favorite and a standout track in the band’s discography.
15. “Thinkin’ Bout You” by Frank Ocean
“Thinkin’ Bout You” is a soulful R&B ballad by American singer-songwriter Frank Ocean, released in 2012. The track features a sparse production, with Ocean’s emotive vocals and simple keyboard melody conveying a sense of heartache and longing. The song’s lyrics explore the complexities of romantic relationships and the pain of missing someone who may not feel the same way. “Thinkin’ Bout You” was a critical and commercial success, earning Ocean widespread acclaim and propelling him to international stardom. Its emotive lyrics and minimalistic sound continue to make it a fan favorite and a standout track in Ocean’s discography.
16. “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton
“Tears in Heaven” is a heart-wrenching ballad by English musician Eric Clapton, released in 1992. The track was written in memory of Clapton’s four-year-old son Conor, who tragically fell to his death from a high-rise apartment building. The song features a tender acoustic guitar arrangement, with Clapton’s plaintive vocals expressing a profound sense of grief and loss. The lyrics explore the difficult questions that arise when dealing with the death of a loved one, and the ongoing struggle to find peace and acceptance. “Tears in Heaven” was a critical and commercial success, earning Clapton numerous awards and widespread acclaim. Its emotive lyrics and poignant sound continue to make it a moving tribute to Clapton’s son and a standout track in his discography.
17. “Missing You” by Diana Ross
“Missing You” is a soulful ballad by American singer Diana Ross, released in 1984. The track was written in memory of Ross’s close friend and fellow musician Marvin Gaye, who had recently passed away. The song features a lush production, with Ross’s soaring vocals and a gentle piano melody conveying a sense of heartache and longing. The lyrics express Ross’s sorrow and the ongoing struggle to come to terms with Gaye’s death. “Missing You” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on several music charts and earning Ross a Grammy nomination. Its emotive lyrics and elegant sound continue to make it a moving tribute to Gaye and a standout track in Ross’s discography.
18. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
“I Will Always Love You” is a timeless ballad recorded by Whitney Houston in 1992. The song was originally written and recorded by country artist Dolly Parton in 1974, but Houston’s powerful rendition made it an instant classic. Houston’s vocal performance is nothing short of iconic, with her stunning range and emotive delivery perfectly capturing the heartbreak and longing expressed in the lyrics. The song became a massive commercial success, topping charts around the world and winning several awards, including Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the Grammy Awards. It remains one of Houston’s most beloved songs and a testament to her immense talent.
19. “So Far Away” by Carole King
“So Far Away” is a poignant ballad by American singer-songwriter Carole King, released in 1971 as the opening track on her iconic album “Tapestry.” The song is a reflection on the bittersweet nature of separation, with King’s soulful voice capturing the feelings of longing and isolation that come with being physically or emotionally distant from someone we care about. The simple yet powerful piano arrangement and King’s heartfelt lyrics have made “So Far Away” a timeless classic that has resonated with generations of listeners. It remains a staple of King’s live shows and a favorite among fans and critics alike.
20. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
“Ain’t No Sunshine” is a soulful and emotionally charged ballad by American singer-songwriter Bill Withers, released in 1971. The song’s sparse arrangement, featuring Withers’ voice and guitar and a simple drum beat, perfectly captures the feelings of loneliness and heartache that accompany a breakup. The repetitive “I know” refrain, punctuated by the haunting “ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone,” creates a sense of longing and despair that is both universal and deeply personal. Withers’ powerful vocals and raw, honest lyrics have made “Ain’t No Sunshine” a classic of the soul and R&B genre, and a timeless expression of heartbreak and loss.
21. “Come Back, Be Here” by Taylor Swift
“Come Back, Be Here” is a poignant ballad by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, released in 2012. The song tells the story of a long-distance relationship, with Swift yearning for her lover to come back and be by her side. Her delicate and vulnerable vocals perfectly capture the feelings of loneliness and isolation that can accompany a separation from a loved one. The song’s melody is gentle and understated, allowing Swift’s lyrics and vocals to take center stage. “Come Back, Be Here” is a heartfelt expression of the pain of missing someone, and a testament to Swift’s skill as a songwriter and performer.
Jason Smith 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.
