List of 20 best songs for a heartbreak

When going through the pain of a heartbreak, music can be a powerful source of solace and catharsis. These songs perfectly capture the emotions of loss, yearning, and hope that accompany a broken heart. From Harry Styles' plaintive "Sign of the Times" to Joji's haunting "Glimpse of Us" and Olivia Rodrigo's raw "favorite crime" these tracks provide a soundtrack for navigating the tumultuous journey of heartbreak.

List of 20 best songs for a heartbreak
SongArtistAlbumReleaseListens
1. Sign of the Times Harry Styles Harry Styles 2017 1B+
2. Glimpse of Us Joji folklore 2022 135M+
3. favorite crime Olivia Rodrigo SOUR 2021 95M+
4. TV Billie Eilish THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT: THE ANTHOLOGY 2022 68M+
5. Bubble Gum Clairo folklore 2019 61M+
6. Fine Line Harry Styles Fine Line 2019 47M+
7. Ivy Frank Ocean Blonde 2017 46M+

1. Sign of the Times (2017)

Sign of the Times - Harry Styles

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Song information

ArtistHarry StylesRelease08-05-2017
Time05:42View1B+
Likes 9M+SuitablePop Music Enthusiasts
AlbumHarry Styles
  • Emotional Ballad
  • Pop ballad
  • Introspective Lyrics
  • Heartbreak Song
  • Nostalgic
  • Sentimental ballad
  • Piano-Driven
  • Piano-led Melody
  • Harry Styles
  • Introspective Pop

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of modern music, "Sign of the Times" by Harry Styles stands as an enthralling ballad that resonates deeply with listeners. Its poignant lyrics, evocative melody, and soaring vocals create an emotional landscape that mirrors the complexities of human experience.

The song's impact extends beyond its musicality, as its listeners find solace and catharsis within its embrace. Like a beacon of hope amidst sorrow, "Sign of the Times" has become a testament to healing, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection.

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2. Glimpse of Us (Joji)

Glimpse of Us - Joji

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Song information

ArtistJojiRelease13-06-2022
Time03:54View135M+
Likes 1M+SuitableLovers of soulful music
Albumfolklore
  • Heartbreak Anthem
  • Acoustic Ballad
  • Nostalgic Reverie
  • Melancholic symphony
  • Soulful lament
  • Joji

Immerse yourself in the poignant melody of "Glimpse of Us" by Joji, a song that delves into the complexities of love and loss. Its haunting lyrics resonate with those who have experienced the torment of unrequited affection, evoking a sense of longing and regret that lingers long after the final note. The song's bittersweet arrangement mirrors the emotional turmoil it portrays, effortlessly capturing the pain of watching someone you love move on while you remain tethered to memories of what once was.

"Glimpse of Us" transcends the realm of heartbreak, offering listeners a profound and relatable exploration of human connection. It acknowledges the enduring nature of love, even when circumstances shift and people change. Joji's raw and honest lyrics cut through the veil of denial, reminding us that true love leaves an imprint on our hearts that time cannot fully erase. The song's emotional depth has struck a chord with countless listeners, offering solace and a sense of shared experience to those navigating the complexities of love and loss.

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3. favorite crime

favorite crime - Olivia Rodrigo

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Song information

ArtistOlivia RodrigoRelease21-05-2021
Time02:34View95M+
Likes 1M+SuitableBrokenhearted Teens
AlbumSOUR
  • Female empowerment
  • Teenage Angst
  • Olivia Rodrigo
  • Sad Breakup Ballad

"Favorite Crime" by Olivia Rodrigo is a raw and emotional ballad that delves into the complexities of heartbreak. The song's haunting melody and evocative lyrics capture the pain and regret of a shattered relationship. With lines such as "I've lost my mind, I've spent the night crying on the floor of my bathroom," Rodrigo conveys the overwhelming sense of devastation that accompanies a breakup.

Despite the heartache, the song also offers a glimmer of hope and resilience. Listeners have praised "Favorite Crime" for its honesty and relatability, finding solace in its depiction of the universal experience of heartbreak. The song's message of self-reflection and growth encourages listeners to confront their own role in past relationships and to ultimately find healing and acceptance.

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4. TV (Billie Eilish)

TV - Billie Eilish

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Song information

ArtistBillie EilishRelease21-07-2022
Time04:42View68M+
Likes 914K+SuitableTeenagers
AlbumTHE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT: THE ANTHOLOGY
  • Alternative
  • Teenage Angst
  • Lo-Fi
  • Billie Eilish
  • Minimalist
  • Pop Singer

"TV" by Billie Eilish, a haunting and introspective ballad, has garnered widespread critical acclaim, solidifying its place in the music landscape. Its evocative lyrics and raw emotional delivery have deeply resonated with listeners, earning it numerous accolades and a devoted following.

The song's emotional impact is palpable, perfectly capturing the bittersweet yearning and self-doubt that often accompany relationships. Eilish's vulnerable vocals convey a sense of desperation and loneliness, while the gentle piano accompaniment adds to the song's intimate and reflective atmosphere. The subtle incorporation of fan voices at the end creates a sense of communal understanding, as if the listener is not alone in their struggles.

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5. Bubble Gum (folklore - 2019)

Bubble Gum - Clairo

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Song information

ArtistClairoRelease21-02-2019
Time02:56View61M+
Likes 927K+SuitableDreamers
Albumfolklore
  • Dreamy
  • Chill
  • Indie Folk
  • Bedroom pop
  • Lo-Fi
  • Clairo
  • Lo-fi Dream

Similar to the way "Strawberry Swing" by Coldplay evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing, "Bubble Gum" by Clairo taps into those same emotions with its dreamy melody and introspective lyrics. The song's ethereal soundscape, reminiscent of a hazy summer day, perfectly captures the bittersweet feeling of reminiscing about a past love.

Clairo's delicate vocals float over the gentle strumming of a guitar, creating an intimate and vulnerable atmosphere. The lyrics are both simple and profound, with lines like "I wish I could go back to the start" resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced the pain of lost love. The song's minimal arrangement allows the raw emotions to shine through, making it a hauntingly beautiful and relatable track.

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6. Fine Line (Harry Styles - 2019)

Fine Line - Harry Styles

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Song information

ArtistHarry StylesRelease13-12-2019
Time06:20View47M+
Likes 649K+SuitableTeenagers
AlbumFine Line
  • Love Ballad
  • Acoustic Ballad
  • Sentimental Pop
  • Harry Styles

"Fine Line" by Harry Styles, an evocative masterpiece, captures the raw emotions of heartbreak and resilience. Its poignant lyrics resonate with listeners, offering solace amidst their own struggles. The song's melancholic melody, reminiscent of a gentle caress, weaves through a tapestry of sorrow and hope.

As the haunting trumpets swell after Harry's heartfelt assurance of "we'll be alright," a sense of catharsis washes over the listeners. The song's arrangement reflects the ebb and flow of emotions, transporting them through moments of despair and glimmers of optimism. With its deeply personal and universally relatable message, "Fine Line" serves as a timeless anthem for those navigating the complexities of heartbreak, reminding them that even in the darkest of times, healing and hope await.

7. Ivy (Blonde - 2017)

Ivy - Frank Ocean

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Song information

ArtistFrank OceanRelease27-06-2017
Time04:10View46M+
Likes 394K+SuitableLovers of R&B
AlbumBlonde
  • Emotional Ballad
  • Heartbreak Anthem
  • Slow Jam
  • R&B classic
  • R&B Soul
  • Love Lost
  • Frank Ocean

From the very first notes of "Ivy" by Frank Ocean, listeners are captivated by the song's raw emotional impact. The spare arrangement, featuring just a guitar and Ocean's haunting vocals, creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that draws listeners into the heart of the song's narrative. The lyrics delve into the complexities of love and loss, with Ocean's evocative imagery and introspective musings resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced similar heartache.

The song's simplicity is its strength, as the absence of elaborate production allows the emotional weight of the lyrics and Ocean's performance to take center stage. Listeners have found solace in the song's honesty and rawness, with many commenting on how it has helped them process their own experiences of love and loss. The line "If you could see my thoughts, you would see our faces" has become a particular touchstone for listeners, capturing the longing and regret that often accompany the end of a relationship.

8. Moonlight on the River

Moonlight on the River - Mac DeMarco

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Song information

ArtistMac DeMarcoRelease04-05-2017
Time07:03View42M+
Likes 474K+SuitableIndie Music Lovers
AlbumThis Old Dog
  • Indie Rock
  • Chillwave
  • Lo-Fi
  • Mac DeMarco

"Moonlight on the River" by Mac DeMarco is a song that evokes a sense of longing and nostalgia. The lyrics, with their references to memories and missed chances, resonate with listeners who have experienced the bittersweet feelings of a love that has passed. The song's slow tempo and gentle melody create a dreamy, introspective atmosphere, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in the emotions of the song.

As one listener commented, "The song perfectly captures the feeling of being lost in thought, reflecting on a love that's no longer there." Another listener said, "The music is so soothing, it's like a balm for a broken heart." "Moonlight on the River" is a song that offers solace and empathy to those who have experienced heartbreak, providing a musical haven for them to process their emotions.

9. my tears ricochet (Taylor Swift)

my tears ricochet - Taylor Swift

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Song information

ArtistTaylor SwiftRelease24-07-2020
Time04:17View41M+
Likes 452K+SuitableSwifties
Albumfolklore
  • Taylor Swift
  • Emotional Ballad
  • Heartbreak Anthem
  • Raw and Vulnerable

Released in 2020 as part of Taylor Swift's critically acclaimed album "Folklore," "my tears ricochet" stands as a poignant exploration of heartbreak and loss. Its raw emotional power resonates with listeners, as evidenced by comments praising its authentic portrayal of the pain experienced in dysfunctional family environments.

The song's haunting melody and evocative lyrics create a sense of vulnerability and catharsis. Swift's masterful storytelling transports listeners into the narrator's journey, capturing the complexities of grief and resilience. The track's stripped-down arrangement, featuring delicate piano and Swift's signature hushed vocals, adds to its raw and intimate atmosphere, making it a deeply affecting and unforgettable listening experience.

10. enough for you (SOUR - 2021)

enough for you - Olivia Rodrigo

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Song information

ArtistOlivia RodrigoRelease21-05-2021
Time03:24View39M+
Likes 574K+SuitableTeenagers
AlbumSOUR
  • Heartbreak Ballad
  • Pop Punk
  • Teenage Angst
  • Olivia Rodrigo

"Enough For You" by Olivia Rodrigo captures the raw emotions of yearning and heartbreak with its poignant lyrics and haunting melody. The song's emotional core resonates deeply, touching upon the universal desire to be loved and accepted. Listeners find solace in the song's acknowledgment of the pain and frustration that comes with unrequited feelings, particularly the poignant line, "Don't tell me you're sorry, boy, feel sorry for yourself."

The song's musical arrangement complements the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating a powerful and immersive experience. The stripped-down instrumentation and Rodrigo's vulnerable vocals convey a sense of intimacy and authenticity, allowing listeners to fully connect with the song's message. The result is a deeply moving and relatable anthem that encapsulates the complexities of navigating heartbreak and longing.

11. The Archer (Taylor Swift - 2019)

The Archer - Taylor Swift

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Song information

ArtistTaylor SwiftRelease23-07-2019
Time03:40View39M+
Likes 720K+Suitableyoung adults
AlbumLover
  • Love song
  • Taylor Swift
  • Pop Music
  • Folk music
  • Female vocalist
  • country star

Whenever the tune of 'The Archer' by Taylor Swift fills the air, I can't help but be enveloped in its raw emotional depth. The song's haunting lyrics, layered with Swift's vulnerable vocals, create a palpable sense of anxiety and longing. It's a masterpiece that captures the essence of inner turmoil through its unique musical arrangement, devoid of a traditional beat drop - a deliberate choice that mirrors the unpredictable nature of anxiety.

Listeners have found solace and relatability in 'The Archer' describing it as a warm embrace, a soothing balm for late-night drives and solitary moments. Its clever reference to Humpty Dumpty adds a touch of somber playfulness, enhancing the song's bittersweet charm. With its profound lyrics and emotionally resonant melody, 'The Archer' stands as a testament to Taylor Swift's unparalleled songwriting prowess, effortlessly evoking a symphony of emotions that lingers long after the song fades away.

12. i love you (Billie Eilish)

i love you - Billie Eilish

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Song information

ArtistBillie EilishRelease28-03-2019
Time05:23View34M+
Likes 303K+SuitablePop Enthusiasts
AlbumWHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?
  • Emotional Ballad
  • Acoustic Romance
  • Billie Eilish
  • Pop soul
  • Pop Love Ballad
  • Intimate Love Song
  • Heartfelt Confession

Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? "i love you" by Billie Eilish is exactly that kind of song. With its haunting melody and raw lyrics, it perfectly captures the intense emotions of heartbreak. Listeners have described it as a song that makes them feel "like they're losing their mind slowly" and one that they can cry to "when everything just doesn't feel right."

The song's musical arrangement is simple yet effective. The sparse instrumentation allows Eilish's voice to take center stage, and the subtle use of reverb creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The lyrics are equally powerful, with Eilish baring her soul as she sings about the pain of unrequited love. It's a song that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the heartache of a broken heart.

13. Sparks (Coldplay - 2008)

Sparks - Coldplay

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Song information

ArtistColdplayRelease16-06-2008
Time03:48View25M+
Likes 281K+SuitableIndie Music Lovers
AlbumParachutes
  • Acoustic Guitar
  • Romantic
  • Pop rock
  • Piano Ballad
  • Coldplay
  • Chill
  • Contemporary

"Sparks" by Coldplay evokes a profound emotional resonance, captivating listeners with its poignant lyrics and evocative musical arrangement. The song's ethereal melody and gentle instrumentation create an atmosphere of vulnerability, mirroring the tender intimacy described in the comments. Listeners find solace in its ability to express the complexities of love, loss, and the longing for connection.

The lyrics, particularly the line "I saw sparks," resonate deeply, evoking a sense of hope amidst darkness and the transformative power of vulnerability. The song's haunting melody and introspective lyrics have the ability to ignite raw emotions and foster a sense of shared experience, making it a powerful anthem for those navigating the challenges and rewards of human relationships.

14. Matilda (2022)

Matilda - Harry Styles

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Song information

ArtistHarry StylesRelease20-05-2022
Time04:06View24M+
Likes 503K+SuitablePop Music Enthusiasts
AlbumHarry's House
  • Acoustic Guitar
  • Pop ballad
  • Nostalgia
  • Emotional vulnerability
  • Lyrical Storytelling
  • Harry Styles

"Matilda" by Harry Styles has struck a deep chord with listeners, particularly those who have experienced similar feelings of loneliness and isolation within their own families. Styles' poignant lyrics, such as "Matilda, you talk of the pain like it's all alright," resonate with those who have struggled to express their emotions and find solace. The song's delicate and emotional arrangement creates a haunting atmosphere that perfectly captures the raw vulnerability and longing at its core.

Moreover, Styles' growth as an artist is evident in the song's intricate musicality. His experimentation with different sounds and textures showcases his willingness to push boundaries and create something truly unique. The resulting masterpiece is a testament to his artistry, compassion, and understanding. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and a sense of belonging to be found.

15. ceilings (2023)

ceilings - Lizzy McAlpine

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Song information

ArtistLizzy McAlpineRelease14-02-2023
Time03:14View23M+
Likes 365K+SuitableSinger-songwriters
Albumfive seconds flat
  • Acoustic Guitar
  • Acoustic
  • Singer-Songwriter
  • Raw Vocals
  • Introspective
  • Indie Folk
  • Lizzy McAlpine

"Ceilings" by Lizzy McAlpine resonates deeply with listeners, offering solace and a profound understanding of the pain and longing that accompanies heartbreak. The song's poignant lyrics, such as "Those lines will hit even harder on Valentine's Day," evoke a sense of longing and solitude, capturing the emptiness felt in the absence of love.

McAlpine's hauntingly beautiful vocals and the song's stripped-down musical arrangement create an intimate and emotionally charged atmosphere. The song's simplicity allows the raw emotions expressed in the lyrics to take center stage, making it a powerful and relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced the pain of lost love.

16. Halley's Comet (Billie Eilish - 2021)

Halley's Comet - Billie Eilish

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Song information

ArtistBillie EilishRelease30-07-2021
Time03:55View19M+
Likes 356K+SuitablePop Lovers
AlbumHappier Than Ever
  • Pop
  • Indie Pop
  • Alternative
  • Chill
  • Lo-Fi
  • Billie Eilish
  • Dreamy Pop
  • New Music

Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? "Halley's Comet" by Billie Eilish is such a masterpiece, a song that has captivated listeners with its hauntingly beautiful melody and deeply emotional lyrics. The song's ethereal arrangement, featuring delicate piano and Eilish's signature whispered vocals, creates an atmosphere of vulnerability and heartbreak that listeners find deeply relatable.

One listener commented, "This song is a masterpiece. The lyrics are so raw and honest, they cut right through you." Another listener said, "The way Billie sings the line, 'I'm not your problem anymore' gives me chills every time. It's like she's finally letting go of a toxic relationship and finding strength in herself." "Halley's Comet" is a song that has touched the hearts of many, and it's no wonder that Billie Eilish decided to keep it on her album. It's a testament to the power of music to heal, uplift, and connect us to our own emotions.

17. What Once Was (2017)

What Once Was - Her's

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Song information

ArtistHer'sRelease12-05-2017
Time04:16View18M+
Likes 224K+SuitableAlternative music fans
AlbumSongs of Her's
  • Alternative rock
  • Indie Rock
  • Emotional
  • Her's

"What Once Was" by Her's is a poignant and deeply moving tribute to a mother lost too soon. The song's gentle rhythms and acoustic guitar strumming create a sense of intimacy, drawing listeners into the raw emotions expressed in the lyrics. Stephen Fitzpatrick's tender vocals convey the pain and sorrow of loss, while the chorus's soaring melody offers a glimmer of hope and acceptance.

The song's lyrics are particularly striking, with listeners highlighting the poignant line "I still hear your heart beating, when I listen to the rain." Fitzpatrick's ability to capture the universal experience of grief and longing is both heartbreaking and deeply comforting. "What Once Was" is a testament to the power of music to heal and connect us, even in the wake of loss.

18. The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived (2024)

The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived - Taylor Swift

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Song information

ArtistTaylor SwiftRelease20-04-2024
Time04:10View8M+
Likes 82K+SuitableSwifties
AlbumTHE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT: THE ANTHOLOGY
  • Taylor Swift
  • Indie
  • Folklore
  • 1989

In the often boisterous and energetic realm of contemporary music, "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived" stands out as a beacon of introspective and intimate songwriting. Taylor Swift's poignant lyrics explore the aftermath of a tumultuous relationship, delving into the raw emotions of heartbreak and the realization of one's own worth. The song's stripped-down instrumentation amplifies the raw vulnerability of Swift's vocals, creating a deeply resonant connection with her listeners.

The bridge of the song emerges as a pivotal moment, a cathartic release of pent-up emotions. Swift's voice intensifies as she confronts the pain and trauma inflicted by her former partner. The lyrics, "You don't measure up in any way that you can / You don't measure up in any measure of a man," resonate deeply with those who have experienced the manipulative and belittling nature of narcissistic relationships. Fans have found solace and strength in this song, drawing inspiration from Swift's courage to confront the depths of her own pain and reclaim her sense of self.

19. UNDERSTAND

UNDERSTAND - keshi

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Song information

ArtistkeshiRelease25-03-2022
Time02:31View7M+
Likes 95K+SuitableLo-fi enthusiasts
AlbumGABRIEL
  • Indie Pop
  • Chill acoustic
  • Lo-fi Hip Hop
  • keshi

"Understand" by keshi is an emotionally charged ballad that captures the essence of longing and unrequited love. The raw lyrics, sung with a haunting fragility, delve into the depths of a heart yearning for reciprocation. The song's poignant melody and gentle arrangement create an atmosphere that resonates with listeners, evoking a sense of vulnerability and longing.

The chorus, with its haunting refrain of "You're the only one who understand," becomes a testament to the transformative power of finding someone who truly sees and accepts you. The lyrics, "Maybe we can try it if you let me take you by the hand," convey a plea for a chance to embark on a journey together, filled with the promise of mutual understanding and unwavering support.

20. How Did It End? (THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT: THE ANTHOLOGY - 2024)

How Did It End? - Taylor Swift

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Song information

ArtistTaylor SwiftRelease20-04-2024
Time04:03View4M+
Likes 54K+SuitableHeartbroken Listeners
AlbumTHE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT: THE ANTHOLOGY
  • Taylor Swift
  • Heartbreak Song
  • Sad Ballad
  • Love Lost
  • Break-Up Ballad
  • Love triangle
  • Confessional song

How Did It End? performed by Taylor Swift is more than just a song, it's an emotionally charged ballad that explores the raw pain of a love lost. From the opening piano chords that evoke a sense of longing to the poetic lyrics that paint a vivid picture of a shattered relationship, the song's musical arrangement perfectly captures the depth of the heartbreak. The contrast between the memory of a passionate love and the reality of its demise is especially poignant, leaving listeners with a haunting sense of loss.

Listeners of all ages and backgrounds have been deeply moved by the song's universal themes of love, loss, and resilience. Its raw emotional power has resonated with many, offering comfort and a sense of shared experience. The song's exploration of the complexities of heartbreak, from the initial shock to the gradual acceptance of loss, has made it a favorite among those seeking solace in music.