22 Songs about Being Hurt that Offer Some Solace

Heartbreak and pain are some of the most universal experiences in life, and music has long been a powerful tool for processing and expressing those feelings. There are countless songs that capture the raw emotions of heartbreak, betrayal, and loss, providing comfort and solace to those going through tough times.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 22 songs about being hurt that offer some solace. These songs cover a range of genres and time periods, but they all share a common thread of emotional honesty and vulnerability. From the hauntingly beautiful ballads of Adele and Sam Smith to the gritty, soulful anthems of Janis Joplin and Amy Winehouse, these songs will speak to anyone who’s ever experienced heartbreak or felt the sting of betrayal. Whether you’re looking for a cathartic cry or just need a little comfort in a tough time, these songs are sure to offer some solace and remind you that you’re not alone in your pain.

1. Let’s Hurt Tonight – OneRepublic

“Let’s Hurt Tonight” by OneRepublic is a soulful pop-rock ballad that explores the emotional aftermath of a difficult breakup. The song’s powerful vocals, melodic piano chords, and soaring orchestration create a poignant atmosphere that captures the pain and longing of the lyrics. The opening lines, “when, when we came home, worn to the bones / I told myself, this could get rough,” set the tone for the introspective and heartfelt lyrics that follow. Lead singer Ryan Tedder’s evocative vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion, while the song’s sweeping chorus provides a cathartic release for the listener. “Let’s Hurt Tonight” is a stirring anthem of heartbreak and resilience that showcases OneRepublic’s trademark blend of pop sensibility and emotional depth.

2. Easy On Me – Adele

“Easy On Me” is the lead single from Adele’s highly-anticipated fourth studio album, “30”. The song marks the British singer-songwriter’s return to the music scene after a five-year hiatus, and it doesn’t disappoint. The track is a powerful ballad that showcases Adele’s soulful vocals and poignant lyricism. The song’s stripped-down production, featuring just piano and strings, allows Adele’s voice to take center stage, conveying the emotional weight of the lyrics. The opening lines, “there ain’t no gold in this river / that I’ve been washing my hands in forever,” set the stage for a song that explores the pain of past mistakes and the hope for a better future. “Easy On Me” is a stunning showcase of Adele’s talent as a singer and songwriter, and a testament to her ability to capture the complexities of the human experience through her music.

3. Hurt – Johnny Cash

“Hurt” is a cover of a song originally written and performed by the industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails, but it is the iconic rendition by country music legend Johnny Cash that has become a beloved classic. Cash’s version is a haunting, stripped-down take on the original, featuring just his distinctive baritone voice and acoustic guitar. The song’s lyrics, which explore themes of regret, addiction, and mortality, take on a new level of emotional resonance in Cash’s hands, as the singer reflects on his own life and struggles. The music video for “Hurt,” which features footage of Cash’s own life and career, adds an extra layer of poignancy to the song’s already powerful lyrics. “Hurt” is a masterful example of Cash’s ability to infuse even the darkest subject matter with raw emotion and humanity.

4. Stitches – Shawn Mendes

“Stitches” is a pop song by Canadian singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes, released as the second single from his debut album “Handwritten”. The song is a catchy and upbeat track that showcases Mendes’ soulful vocals and knack for writing infectious hooks. The lyrics describe the pain of a broken heart, with lines like “You watch me bleed until I can’t breathe / I’m shaking falling onto my knees.” The chorus, which repeats the word “stitches” as a metaphor for the healing process, is a memorable and anthemic hook that is sure to get stuck in your head. “Stitches” is a standout track from Mendes’ debut album and a testament to his talent as a songwriter and performer in the pop genre.

5. Love Hurts – Nazareth

“Love Hurts” is a power ballad originally written and performed by the American rock band The Everly Brothers, but it is the version by Scottish rock band Nazareth that has become a classic. The song is a slow and soulful track that explores the pain and heartbreak that can come with romantic love. The lyrics, which describe the physical and emotional toll of a failed relationship, are delivered with raw emotion by lead singer Dan McCafferty, whose gritty vocals perfectly capture the song’s themes. The song’s simple yet powerful instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar and piano, adds to the overall atmosphere of melancholy and longing. “Love Hurts” is a timeless classic that has resonated with audiences for decades and continues to be a staple of classic rock radio.

6. Hurt Feelings – Mac Miller

“Hurt Feelings” is a introspective and introspective hip-hop track by the late American rapper Mac Miller. The song was released as a part of Miller’s fifth studio album, “Swimming,” and is one of the standout tracks from the album. The song features Miller rapping over a laid-back instrumental that incorporates a sample from Brazilian musician Marcos Valle’s “Mentira.” The lyrics explore Miller’s personal struggles with fame, self-doubt, and the pressures of being in the public eye. The chorus, which repeats the phrase “I’m feeling like I gotta get away, get away, get away,” is a poignant and relatable refrain that captures the emotional depth of the song. “Hurt Feelings” is a powerful and personal track that showcases Miller’s talent as a rapper and his ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.

7. Love the Way You Lie – Eminem & Rihanna

“Love the Way You Lie” is a collaboration between American rapper Eminem and Barbadian singer Rihanna. The song, which was released as the lead single from Eminem’s seventh studio album “Recovery,” is a powerful and emotional ballad that explores the toxic nature of a dysfunctional relationship. The song’s chorus, which features Rihanna singing “Just gonna stand there and watch me burn / Well, that’s all right because I like the way it hurts,” has become a memorable and iconic hook that perfectly captures the song’s themes. The track features Eminem rapping over a brooding and haunting instrumental that builds to a cathartic climax. “Love the Way You Lie” is a masterful collaboration between two of the biggest names in modern music and a testament to their ability to create timeless and impactful songs.

8. Someone You Loved – Lewis Capaldi

“Someone You Loved” is a heart-wrenching power ballad by Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi. The song, which was released as a single from his debut album “Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent,” is a piano-driven track that showcases Capaldi’s raw and emotive vocals. The lyrics explore the pain and regret that comes with a failed relationship, with lines like “Now the day bleeds into nightfall / And you’re not here to get me through it all.” The chorus, which repeats the phrase “Someone you loved” as a haunting refrain, is a memorable and emotionally resonant hook that has made the song a worldwide hit. “Someone You Loved” is a standout track from Capaldi’s debut album and a testament to his talent as a songwriter and performer in the pop genre.

9. Everybody Hurts – R.E.M.

“Everybody Hurts” is a poignant and anthemic ballad by the American rock band R.E.M. The song was released as a single from their eighth studio album “Automatic for the People” and has become one of the band’s most iconic and enduring tracks. The song’s lyrics offer words of comfort and support to anyone who is struggling with pain, loneliness, or depression. The chorus, which repeats the phrase “Everybody hurts sometimes,” is a simple yet powerful mantra that has resonated with listeners all over the world. The song’s instrumentation, featuring a gentle piano melody and lush orchestration, perfectly complements the emotional weight of the lyrics. “Everybody Hurts” is a timeless classic that has helped countless people find solace and strength during difficult times.

10. Life After You – Daughtry

“Life After You” is a soaring rock ballad by the American band Daughtry. The song, which was released as the second single from their second studio album “Leave This Town,” is a powerful and emotional ode to moving on after a difficult breakup. The lyrics express a sense of hope and determination, with lines like “This is gonna be the best day of my life / My li-i-i-i-i-ife” and “Now I’m picking up the pieces from spending all of these years / Putting my heart back together.” The song’s instrumentation features a catchy guitar riff and pounding drums that drive the song forward. “Life After You” is a standout track from Daughtry’s discography and a testament to their ability to craft emotionally resonant rock music.

11. My Immortal – Evanescence

“My Immortal” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by American rock band Evanescence. Released in 2003, the song was written by the band’s lead singer, Amy Lee, and former guitarist Ben Moody. It’s a powerful expression of loss, heartbreak, and grief, with Lee’s emotive vocals backed by a delicate piano melody and soaring strings. The lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, reflecting on the pain of losing someone and the struggle to let go. The song’s atmospheric production and Lee’s dynamic performance make “My Immortal” one of Evanescence’s most beloved and enduring tracks, and a standout ballad of the early 2000s rock scene.

12. Hurt Me Now – Quinn Lewis

“Hurt Me Now” is an introspective and melancholic pop song by Australian singer-songwriter Quinn Lewis. The song explores the complicated emotions that arise when a relationship is falling apart, with Lewis’s vocals conveying a sense of raw vulnerability. The lyrics express a sense of resignation and acceptance, with lines like “If it’s over, then it’s over / I don’t wanna be the one to let it drag on” and “Go ahead and hurt me now / You don’t have to say it out loud.” The song’s instrumentation is understated, with a simple guitar melody and subdued percussion that allow Lewis’s vocals to take center stage. “Hurt Me Now” is a hauntingly beautiful track that showcases Lewis’s skill as a songwriter and vocalist.

13. Hurts Like Heaven – Coldplay

“Hurts Like Heaven” is an energetic and uplifting rock song by the British band Coldplay. The track features driving percussion and an anthemic guitar riff that build to a soaring chorus, making it one of the standout tracks from their fifth studio album “Mylo Xyloto.” The lyrics tell a dystopian story of a rebel hero fighting against oppressive forces, with lines like “Do you ever get the feeling that your story’s too damn real / And in the present tense?” and “Oh, it’s such a perfect day / I’m glad I spent it with you.” The song’s upbeat tempo and positive message make it a fan favorite and a staple of Coldplay’s live performances. “Hurts Like Heaven” is a high-energy rock anthem that showcases Coldplay’s ability to blend meaningful lyrics with catchy melodies.

14. Going Under – Evanescence

“Going Under” is a haunting and powerful rock song by the American band Evanescence. The track features soaring vocals from lead singer Amy Lee, as well as driving guitar riffs and pounding percussion that create a sense of urgency and intensity. The lyrics speak to feelings of helplessness and being trapped in a difficult situation, with lines like “Now I will tell you what I’ve done for you / 50,000 tears I’ve cried / Screaming, deceiving and bleeding for you / And you still won’t hear me.” The chorus is particularly memorable, with Lee belting out the words “Going under” over and over again. “Going Under” was a commercial success upon its release and remains a fan favorite, thanks to its powerful instrumentation and emotionally charged lyrics.

15. Celine Dion – I Love You Goodbye

“I Love You Goodbye” is a heart-wrenching ballad by Canadian singer Celine Dion. The song is a powerful reflection on the end of a relationship, with Dion delivering an emotionally charged performance that showcases her impressive vocal range. The lyrics are bittersweet, expressing both love and heartache as Dion sings about letting go of someone she cares deeply about. The song is driven by a simple piano melody that builds in intensity as the track progresses, with sweeping strings and a soaring chorus adding to the emotional impact. “I Love You Goodbye” is a standout track from Dion’s extensive catalog of hits, and remains a beloved song among fans of the singer’s powerful ballads.

16. Let It Hurt – Rascal Flatts.

“Let It Hurt” is a poignant ballad by American country music group Rascal Flatts. The song is a powerful exploration of the pain and heartbreak that come with the end of a relationship, with the band’s signature harmonies adding an extra layer of emotional depth to the lyrics. The melody is simple and understated, allowing the lyrics to take center stage as the band sings about the healing process that comes after a breakup. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the band urging listeners to “let it hurt” in order to move on and find a new beginning. “Let It Hurt” is a standout track from Rascal Flatts’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to craft emotional and relatable songs that resonate with their fans.

17. La La La – Naughty Boy

“La La La” is an upbeat and catchy pop song by British producer Naughty Boy, featuring the vocals of Sam Smith. The song is built around a lively, infectious melody that incorporates elements of electronic dance music and African rhythms, with a thumping bassline and syncopated beats that are sure to get listeners moving. The lyrics tell a story of a person trying to shut out the noise of the world and live in their own bubble, represented by the repeated refrain of “la la la”. Sam Smith’s soulful vocals add a touch of vulnerability and depth to the track, making it more than just a simple pop song. “La La La” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and cementing Naughty Boy’s status as a rising star in the music industry.

18. Russian Roulette – Rihanna

“Russian Roulette” is a powerful ballad performed by the Barbadian singer Rihanna. The song was written by Ne-Yo and produced by Chuck Harmony. It was released as the lead single from Rihanna’s fourth studio album, “Rated R,” in 2009. The song is about a dangerous game of love, where the stakes are high, and the consequences of losing can be fatal. Rihanna’s haunting vocals and emotive lyrics make this song a standout. The song’s dark and moody production, coupled with the powerful chorus, creates an atmosphere of tension and despair. The music video further explores the song’s themes, with Rihanna depicted in a game of Russian roulette. The song was a commercial success and peaked in the top 10 in several countries.

19. TKO – Justin Timberlake

“TKO” is a song by American singer-songwriter Justin Timberlake, released in 2013 as the second single from his fourth studio album, “The 20/20 Experience – 2 of 2.” The song features a dark and moody beat with a mix of electronic and rock elements. The lyrics depict the end of a tumultuous relationship, with Timberlake comparing his lover to a boxer who keeps hitting him with a knockout blow, leaving him helpless and defeated. The song showcases Timberlake’s impressive vocal range, as well as his ability to blend different genres of music to create a unique sound. It was well received by critics and peaked at number 36 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

20. Hurt – Christina Aguilera

“Hurt” is a powerful ballad that showcases Christina Aguilera’s stunning vocal range and emotional depth. The song was written by Aguilera, Linda Perry, and Mark Ronson and explores the pain and vulnerability of love. Aguilera’s raw and emotive performance is supported by a haunting piano melody and soaring orchestral arrangements, which intensify as the song builds to its climax. The accompanying music video features Aguilera in various stages of transformation and reflects the song’s themes of self-reflection and growth. “Hurt” is a standout track in Aguilera’s discography and a testament to her vocal prowess and ability to convey powerful emotions through her music.

21. Hurt Me – Juice WRLD

“Hurt Me” is a song by American rapper Juice WRLD, released in 2018 as part of his album “Goodbye & Good Riddance.” The song explores themes of heartbreak and the struggle to move on from a past relationship. The lyrics express a desire for closure and the ability to let go of someone who has hurt the artist deeply. The track’s somber melody and introspective lyrics perfectly capture the raw emotions of heartbreak, and Juice WRLD’s signature melancholic delivery brings an added layer of depth to the song. Overall, “Hurt Me” is a powerful and emotional track that showcases the late rapper’s raw talent for expressing his innermost feelings through music.

22. Grenade – Bruno Mars

“Grenade” is a song by Bruno Mars that explores the theme of unrequited love. The song’s lyrics describe the lengths to which the narrator is willing to go to prove his love for his partner, including taking a grenade for them. Despite his willingness to sacrifice everything for the relationship, the narrator feels that his partner is indifferent to his love and takes it for granted. The song’s emotional depth is emphasized by Mars’ passionate delivery and the dramatic production, which includes driving drums and soaring strings. “Grenade” became a massive hit upon its release, topping charts around the world and cementing Bruno Mars’ status as one of the most talented and versatile pop artists of his generation.