20 breakup songs best

Breakups can be tough, but they can also be an opportunity for growth and reflection. Music can be a powerful tool for helping us to process our emotions, and there are few things more cathartic than listening to a breakup song. Whether you're looking to wallow in your sadness or to find the strength to move on, there's a breakup song out there for you. Some of the best breakup songs include "All of Me" by John Legend, "Lovely" by Billie Eilish and Khalid, and "Love Yourself" by Justin Bieber. These songs are all about the pain and heartbreak of a breakup, but they also offer a message of hope and healing.

20 breakup songs best
SongArtistAlbumReleaseListens
1. All of Me John Legend Love In The Future (Expanded Edition) 2013 2B+
2. lovely Billie Eilish
Khalid
Long Way Down (Deluxe) 2018 2B+
3. Love Yourself Justin Bieber Purpose (Deluxe) 2015 2B+
4. Say You Won't Let Go James Arthur Back from the Edge 2016 2B+
5. When I Was Your Man Bruno Mars Unorthodox Jukebox 2013 1B+
6. Another Love Tom Odell Long Way Down (Deluxe) 2012 974M+
7. Someone You Loved Lewis Capaldi Divinely Uninspired To A Hellish Extent 2019 902M+

1. All of Me - Love In The Future (Expanded Edition)

All of Me - John Legend

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Song information

ArtistJohn LegendRelease02-10-2013
Time05:08View2B+
Likes 13M+SuitableN/a
AlbumLove In The Future (Expanded Edition)
"All of Me" performed by John Legend is more than just a song; it's an achingly honest ballad that captures the raw emotions of love and devotion. With its tender lyrics and haunting melody, the song has struck a chord with listeners worldwide, becoming an anthem for those who have experienced the transformative power of true love. The song's emotional impact is undeniable. The lyrics, "All of me loves all of you," convey a depth of feeling that resonates with anyone who has ever been deeply in love. The musical arrangement, with its gentle piano chords and soaring strings, perfectly complements the lyrics, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.

✨ Read more: 20 Unforgettable Acoustic Songs That Will Resonate With Your Soul

2. lovely - Long Way Down (Deluxe)

lovely - Billie Eilish,Khalid

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Song information

ArtistBillie Eilish, KhalidRelease26-04-2018
Time03:21View2B+
Likes 27M+SuitableN/a
AlbumLong Way Down (Deluxe)
Released in 2018, "lovely" is a somber duet by Billie Eilish and Khalid that has garnered critical acclaim and resonated deeply with listeners. Its haunting melody and raw lyrics have earned it numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Song of the Year. The song's emotional impact is palpable, eliciting powerful reactions from its audience. Listeners have described it as "heartbreaking," "therapeutic," and "a reminder of the struggles we all face." The musical arrangement is sparse and atmospheric, with Eilish's ethereal vocals intertwining with Khalid's soulful delivery. The overall effect is both deeply moving and profoundly cathartic.

✨ Read more: 20 Iconic 80s Rock Songs That Will Get You Rocking

3. Love Yourself - Purpose (Deluxe)

Love Yourself - Justin Bieber

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Song information

ArtistJustin BieberRelease14-11-2015
Time04:33View2B+
Likes 8M+SuitableN/a
AlbumPurpose (Deluxe)
Much like The Weeknd's "Blinding Lights" and "Save Your Tears," Justin Bieber's "Love Yourself" captivates listeners with its fusion of pop and synthwave elements. The song has a distinct emotional impact, with Bieber's raw lyrics expressing a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The track's powerful arrangement perfectly complements the lyrics, featuring a driving beat, soaring synths, and Bieber's signature vocals. Listeners have praised its relatable themes and uplifting message, highlighting the song's ability to resonate with a wide audience on a deeply personal level.

✨ Read more: 20 Best 70s Rock Songs That Will Take You Back to the Golden Era

4. Say You Won't Let Go (2016)

Say You Won't Let Go - James Arthur

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Song information

ArtistJames ArthurRelease09-09-2016
Time03:31View2B+
Likes 9M+SuitableN/a
AlbumBack from the Edge
"'Say You Won't Let Go' by James Arthur is a song that evokes a torrent of emotions. Its poignant lyrics and soulful melody have resonated with countless listeners, offering solace and a sense of shared experience. The song captures the raw pain of heartbreak and the desperate hope for a reconciliation." "Whether it's a reminder of a lost love, a tribute to a cherished relationship, or a lifeline for those struggling with loneliness, 'Say You Won't Let Go' has become a timeless anthem. Its ability to elicit such profound emotions is a testament to its authenticity and universal appeal."

✨ Read more: The 15 1993 best songs

5. When I Was Your Man (Unorthodox Jukebox)

When I Was Your Man - Bruno Mars

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Song information

ArtistBruno MarsRelease05-02-2013
Time03:55View1B+
Likes 8M+SuitableN/a
AlbumUnorthodox Jukebox
Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? "When I Was Your Man" by Bruno Mars is exactly that kind of song. Its emotional resonance has touched countless hearts since its release, evoking a bittersweet nostalgia for lost love. The song's poignant lyrics, coupled with Mars' soulful vocals, paint a vivid picture of regret and longing, leaving listeners aching with a sense of what could have been. Despite the deeply personal nature of the song, its universal appeal transcends individual experiences. Its evocative melody and relatable themes have made it an anthem for anyone who has ever experienced the pain of lost love. Whether it brings tears to your eyes or simply stirs a longing in your heart, "When I Was Your Man" is a timeless classic that captures the bittersweet essence of love and loss.

✨ Read more: 16 Best Taylor Swift Songs from 1989 for Your Ultimate Playlisting

6. Another Love - Long Way Down (Deluxe)

Another Love - Tom Odell

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Song information

ArtistTom OdellRelease05-11-2012
Time04:08View974M+
Likes 9M+SuitableN/a
AlbumLong Way Down (Deluxe)
Released in 2013, "Another Love" by Tom Odell captures the raw emotions of heartbreak with its poignant lyrics and haunting melody. The song's melancholic undertones resonate with listeners, evoking a sense of longing and regret. The simplicity of the musical arrangement allows Odell's evocative vocals to take center stage, conveying the depth of his emotional turmoil. The lyrics, filled with sentiments of loss and unrequited love, paint a vivid picture of a broken heart. As Odell sings, "All my tears have been used up on another love," listeners are drawn into the depths of his despair, sharing in his pain and yearning for connection.

7. Someone You Loved (Divinely Uninspired To A Hellish Extent - 2019)

Someone You Loved - Lewis Capaldi

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Song information

ArtistLewis CapaldiRelease29-08-2019
Time03:07View902M+
Likes 9M+SuitableN/a
AlbumDivinely Uninspired To A Hellish Extent
Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? "Someone You Loved" by Lewis Capaldi is a masterpiece that evokes raw emotions with its poignant lyrics and haunting melody. The song captures the profound pain of heartbreak, resonating with listeners who have experienced the loss of a loved one. Capaldi's soulful vocals convey the anguish and longing of a heart shattered into pieces. The musical arrangement, with its simple yet evocative piano accompaniment, amplifies the emotional impact, creating a deeply personal and relatable experience for listeners. The song's universality lies in its ability to articulate the unspoken pain of heartbreak, offering solace and a sense of shared experience to those navigating the complexities of love and loss.

8. Flowers (Endless Summer Vacation - 2023)

Flowers - Miley Cyrus

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ArtistMiley CyrusRelease13-01-2023
Time03:22View820M+
Likes 8M+SuitableN/a
AlbumEndless Summer Vacation
In a contemporary music landscape teeming with electronic anthems, Miley Cyrus's 'Flowers' emerges as a beacon of self-love and empowerment, captivating listeners with its raw emotional resonance. The song's lyrics, a poignant exploration of personal growth and resilience, resonate deeply with listeners, particularly those who have experienced the pain of heartbreak. Cyrus's poignant lyrics and uplifting melody have struck a chord with listeners, empowering them to embrace self-care and prioritize their own happiness. The song's infectious rhythm and catchy hook make it an anthem for anyone seeking a boost of confidence and inspiration, reminding them that true fulfillment comes from within.

9. Let Me Down Slowly (Narrated For You)

Let Me Down Slowly - Alec Benjamin

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Song information

ArtistAlec BenjaminRelease04-06-2018
Time02:58View598M+
Likes 8M+SuitableN/a
AlbumNarrated For You
If you're a fan of haunting breakup anthems, "Let Me Down Slowly" by Alec Benjamin is a must-listen. With its raw emotional intensity and captivating blend of pop and folk, this song has resonated with listeners since its release. Benjamin's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a heart grappling with the pain of a fading relationship, capturing the bittersweet longing and vulnerability that lingers after a love has ended. The song's haunting melody and Benjamin's soulful vocals create an atmosphere of both sorrow and resilience. It's a song that lingers in your mind long after you've finished listening, reminding you that even in the depths of heartbreak, there's always the possibility of healing and moving on.

10. drivers license

drivers license - Olivia Rodrigo

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Song information

ArtistOlivia RodrigoRelease08-01-2021
Time04:07View534M+
Likes 9M+SuitableN/a
AlbumSOUR
Released in 2021, "drivers license" by Olivia Rodrigo quickly became a global sensation, topping charts worldwide and earning numerous awards. Its raw and emotional lyrics resonated deeply with listeners, who praised Rodrigo's songwriting and vocal performance. The song's heartfelt lyrics explore the pain and heartbreak of a young love lost. Rodrigo's vulnerable delivery conveys the intensity of her emotions, and the line "She's everything I'm insecure about" has become an anthem for those struggling with self-doubt and the loss of a relationship.

11. good 4 u (2021)

good 4 u - Olivia Rodrigo

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Song information

ArtistOlivia RodrigoRelease14-05-2021
Time03:19View480M+
Likes 7M+SuitableN/a
AlbumSOUR
"Good 4 U" by Olivia Rodrigo is a raw and emotional anthem that has resonated deeply with listeners. Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of a scorned lover, unleashing a torrent of anger and bitterness towards their former flame. The song's fiery musical arrangement perfectly complements the emotional intensity, creating a cathartic experience for those who have experienced similar heartache. As one listener aptly put it, the song "is so relatable." Its exploration of the complex emotions that accompany a breakup - the anger, the jealousy, and the bittersweet realization that your former partner is thriving - has struck a chord with many. Rodrigo's powerful vocals and evocative storytelling have created a song that not only captures the pain of heartbreak but also offers a sense of empowerment and resilience.

12. deja vu

deja vu - Olivia Rodrigo

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Song information

ArtistOlivia RodrigoRelease01-04-2021
Time03:52View442M+
Likes 6M+SuitableN/a
AlbumSOUR
Olivia Rodrigo, a rising star in the music industry, delivers a poignant and relatable anthem with her song 'deja vu' The track captures the raw emotions of heartbreak and betrayal, resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced similar pain. Rodrigo's evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of a lover who recreates shared experiences with someone new, leaving the narrator feeling bitter and disillusioned. The song's emotional impact is further amplified by its haunting musical arrangement. The sparse piano melody and Rodrigo's hushed vocals create an atmosphere of vulnerability, while the building intensity of the chorus conveys the narrator's growing desperation. The track concludes with a chilling twist, as the narrator realizes that the new lover is experiencing the exact same heartbreak she endured. This moment serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of relationships and the enduring pain of lost love.

13. No Scrubs (TLC - 2014)

No Scrubs - TLC

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Song information

ArtistTLCRelease01-02-2014
Time04:10View428M+
Likes 2M+SuitableN/a
AlbumFanmail
Whenever the tune of 'No Scrubs' by TLC plays, it's impossible not to feel a surge of nostalgia for a simpler time. The song's catchy melody and empowering lyrics evoke memories of carefree days and the strength of female friendship. It's a timeless anthem that continues to resonate with listeners today, reminding them of their own worth and the importance of surrounding themselves with people who uplift and support them. Musically, 'No Scrubs' is a masterpiece. The production is polished and sleek, with a driving beat and infectious hooks that linger in the mind long after the song is over. The lyrics are clever and relatable, painting a vivid picture of the frustration and disappointment women face when dealing with disrespectful men. TLC's harmonies are flawless, adding an extra layer of power and emotion to the performance.

14. Heather (Kid Krow - 2020)

Heather - Conan Gray

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Song information

ArtistConan GrayRelease20-08-2020
Time03:26View169M+
Likes 3M+SuitableN/a
AlbumKid Krow
"Heather" by Conan Gray is a heartrending ballad that captures the anguish of unrequited love with raw emotion and poignant lyrics. Listeners are drawn to the song's relatable narrative, lamenting the unattainable ideal of a person who seems perfect. The song's haunting melody and Gray's evocative vocals create a deeply immersive experience, making it a cathartic release for those who have experienced similar heartbreak. Gray's lyrics paint a vivid portrait of longing and frustration, capturing the pain of watching someone you love choose another. The song's evocative imagery and emotional depth resonate with listeners, who find solace and validation in its heartfelt lyrics. "Heather" serves as a reminder that even in the face of unrequited love, there is beauty and healing to be found in the process of letting go.

15. traitor (Olivia Rodrigo - 2021)

traitor - Olivia Rodrigo

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Song information

ArtistOlivia RodrigoRelease21-10-2021
Time03:58View130M+
Likes 2M+SuitableN/a
AlbumSOUR
"Traitor" by Olivia Rodrigo has a raw vulnerability that resonates with listeners across generations. Its honest lyrics capture the pain of heartbreak, evoking memories of first loves lost. The contrast between the jovial atmosphere surrounding the singer and her own internal turmoil portrays the numbing isolation that betrayal can bring. With its poignant musical arrangement, "Traitor" effectively conveys the emotional turmoil of a shattered heart. The song's emotional depth is amplified by Rodrigo's powerful vocals, which convey the anguish and betrayal felt by the protagonist. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to evoke empathy and remind listeners of the pain and sadness that accompany heartbreak.

16. vampire (2023)

vampire - Olivia Rodrigo

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Song information

ArtistOlivia RodrigoRelease30-06-2023
Time04:05View115M+
Likes 2M+SuitableN/a
AlbumGUTS
Similar to The Weeknd's "Blinding Lights," "vampire" by Olivia Rodrigo seamlessly blends pop and synthwave, creating a captivating musical experience. The song's emotional impact resonates deeply with listeners, who describe it as perfectly capturing the turmoil and heartache of toxic relationships. Rodrigo's songwriting prowess is evident in the song's dynamic arrangement, which transitions from a slow piano ballad to an emotional pop rock anthem. The lyrics, particularly the line "you said it was true love but wouldn't that be hard, you can't love anyone cause that would mean you had a heart," poignantly convey the confusion and pain of being trapped in a destructive relationship. The accompanying music video further enhances the song's emotional intensity by portraying the obliviousness of those involved in such relationships.

17. July (THE END OF EVERYTHING)

July - Noah Cyrus

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ArtistNoah CyrusRelease31-07-2019
Time02:35View80M+
Likes 1M+SuitableN/a
AlbumTHE END OF EVERYTHING
When Lady Gaga took the stage at the 2016 Grammys, no one could forget her stunning performance of "Shallow." Similarly, Noah Cyrus's "July" has left an indelible mark on listeners with its raw emotional power. Cyrus's honest and deeply personal lyrics have resonated with countless individuals, who have found solace and validation in her words. The song's haunting melody and sparse musical arrangement create an intimate and vulnerable atmosphere. Cyrus's voice trembles with emotion as she sings about the pain of feeling unloved and unworthy. The song's simplicity amplifies its emotional impact, allowing the listener to connect deeply with Cyrus's heartbreak. It is a masterpiece that showcases Cyrus's growth as an artist and her ability to articulate the complexities of human emotion.

18. exes (THINK LATER - 2023)

exes - Tate McRae

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ArtistTate McRaeRelease17-11-2023
Time03:08View34M+
Likes 393K+SuitableN/a
AlbumTHINK LATER
With its infectious pop melodies and captivating lyrics, "Exes" by Tate McRae emerges as a standout track, reminiscent of the pop anthems that defined the 2000s. McRae's raw vulnerability shines through her emotionally charged vocals, capturing the bittersweet complexities of love and loss. Harnessing the energy of Britney Spears and the confidence of Gwen Stefani, "Exes" pulsates with a vibrant pop-synthwave fusion. McRae's undeniable stage presence and charisma translate seamlessly into her music, creating an anthem that resonates with listeners, leaving them feeling empowered and eager for more.

19. Dandelions (Safe Haven - 2022)

Dandelions - Ruth B.

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Song information

ArtistRuth B.Release09-03-2022
Time03:53View19M+
Likes 397K+SuitableN/a
AlbumSafe Haven
"Dandelions" by Ruth B. is a deeply moving ballad that evokes a profound emotional response in its listeners. Its gentle acoustic strumming and ethereal melody create a sense of vulnerability and nostalgia, perfectly capturing the bittersweet emotions of heartbreak and unrequited love. The song's lyrics, filled with raw honesty and longing, resonate deeply with those who have experienced the pain of lost love or unfulfilled desires. Listeners are drawn to the song's ability to make them feel understood and connected to others who share similar experiences. It has become a source of comfort and solace for those grieving the loss of a loved one or navigating the complexities of unrequited love. The song's message of hope and resilience provides a beacon of light during difficult times, reminding listeners that even in the face of adversity, there is always a glimmer of light and the possibility of healing. With its universal appeal and enduring power, "Dandelions" has become a timeless anthem for those seeking solace and strength during life's inevitable heartbreaks.

20. favorite crime (2021)

favorite crime - Olivia Rodrigo

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Song information

ArtistOlivia RodrigoRelease25-05-2021
Time02:40View14M+
Likes 542K+SuitableN/a
AlbumSOUR
Olivia Rodrigo's 'favorite crime' has captivated listeners with its raw emotional depth and haunting melody. The song's lyrics resonate with themes of heartbreak, loss, and longing, as Rodrigo laments the end of a relationship. Her vocals are both vulnerable and powerful, conveying a sense of both pain and resilience. The musical arrangement of 'favorite crime' is equally impressive, featuring a simple yet effective guitar riff and a driving beat that builds towards a cathartic climax. The song's stripped-back production allows Rodrigo's voice and lyrics to take center stage, creating an intimate and emotionally charged listening experience.