18 Songs about Breaking Up That Will Help You Get Through

Breakups can be incredibly painful experiences, and sometimes it can feel like nothing will help you get through the heartache. However, music has the power to heal and soothe, and there are countless songs about breaking up that can help you process your emotions and move forward. From classic ballads to contemporary pop hits, these songs capture the raw pain and confusion that comes with the end of a relationship.

Whether you need to cry it out, rage against the injustice of it all, or simply find solace in knowing you’re not alone, this list of 18 songs about breaking up is sure to offer some comfort and catharsis during this difficult time.

1.Somebody That I Used To Know – Gotye feat. Kimbra

“Somebody That I Used To Know” by Gotye featuring Kimbra is a poignant breakup song that explores the emotions of two former lovers. The song begins with a minimalistic acoustic guitar riff and slowly builds up with the addition of percussion, synthesizers, and other instruments. Gotye’s soulful vocals express the pain and confusion of a breakup, while Kimbra’s response adds a different perspective to the story. The lyrics are introspective and reveal the bitter feelings that can arise when a relationship ends. The song’s unique sound and haunting melody, coupled with its relatable lyrics, have made it a classic in the realm of modern breakup anthems.

2.Tangled Up in Blue – Bob Dylan

“Tangled Up in Blue” is a folk rock song by Bob Dylan, released on his 1975 album “Blood on the Tracks.” The song is known for its intricate storytelling, where Dylan recounts a relationship that was both passionate and tumultuous. The lyrics are deeply personal and reflective, with Dylan describing the highs and lows of the relationship with vivid imagery and metaphors. The melody is accompanied by acoustic guitar, harmonica, and organ, creating a dreamy and introspective atmosphere. “Tangled Up in Blue” is widely regarded as one of Dylan’s most poignant works, and its influence can still be felt in contemporary folk and rock music.

3.Crying – Roy Orbison

“Crying” by Roy Orbison is a classic ballad released in 1961 that has become one of his most recognizable and enduring hits. The song features Orbison’s distinctive vocals, which showcase his impressive range and emotive power. The lyrics describe the pain of heartbreak and the difficulty of holding back tears, with the melancholic melody and sweeping orchestral arrangements heightening the emotional impact. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing its status as a timeless classic. “Crying” is a quintessential example of Orbison’s ability to express deep emotions through his music and remains a beloved classic to this day.

4.Maps – Yeah Yeah Yeahs

“Maps” by Yeah Yeah Yeahs is an indie rock song that was released in 2003 as the lead single from their debut album, “Fever to Tell.” The song is known for its raw, emotional energy, with lead singer Karen O’s powerful vocals delivering a heartfelt performance. The lyrics describe the pain of a failing relationship and the desire to hold onto it despite the inevitable end. The driving drums, distorted guitar riffs, and driving bassline create an intense and dynamic sound that perfectly complements the song’s theme. “Maps” remains a fan favorite and a standout track in Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ catalog, showcasing the band’s raw and passionate style.

5.The Scientist – Coldplay

“The Scientist” by Coldplay is a soulful and introspective song released in 2002 as part of their second album, “A Rush of Blood to the Head.” The song features lead singer Chris Martin’s plaintive vocals and a simple piano melody that gradually builds with the addition of acoustic guitar, bass, and drums. The lyrics describe the pain and regret of a failed relationship, with Martin asking if he should go back and try to fix what went wrong. The song’s haunting melody and emotional depth have made it a fan favorite and a staple in Coldplay’s live performances. “The Scientist” remains a powerful and introspective song that resonates with listeners to this day.

6.I Know its Over – The Smiths

“I Know It’s Over” is a haunting ballad by The Smiths that was released on their 1986 album “The Queen is Dead.” The song features Morrissey’s distinctive vocals, which convey a deep sense of loneliness and despair. The lyrics are introspective and explore themes of heartbreak and hopelessness, with Morrissey acknowledging the end of a relationship and accepting the pain that comes with it. The music is sparse and atmospheric, with a melancholic guitar riff and subtle use of strings and piano creating a somber and introspective mood. “I Know It’s Over” is widely regarded as one of The Smiths’ most powerful and emotionally affecting songs.

7.I Don’t Want To Talk About It – Everything But The Girl

“I Don’t Want to Talk About It” is a ballad originally written by Danny Whitten of the band Crazy Horse, but popularized by Everything But The Girl in 1988. The song features Tracy Thorn’s delicate and emotive vocals, backed by acoustic guitar and subtle orchestral arrangements. The lyrics describe the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship, with Thorn expressing her reluctance to discuss the emotional pain she’s going through. The song’s gentle melody and introspective lyrics make it a poignant and relatable reflection on the complexities of love and heartbreak. “I Don’t Want to Talk About It” remains a beloved classic and a highlight of Everything But The Girl’s discography.

8.Landslide – Fleetwood Mac

“Landslide” is a folk rock song by Fleetwood Mac that was released in 1975 as part of their self-titled album. The song features Stevie Nicks’ distinctive vocals and simple acoustic guitar accompaniment, creating an intimate and introspective sound. The lyrics describe the passage of time and the changes it brings, with Nicks reflecting on the choices she’s made in life and the difficulties she’s faced. The song’s melody is haunting and emotive, with Nicks’ vocal delivery perfectly capturing the introspective and wistful mood of the lyrics. “Landslide” remains one of Fleetwood Mac’s most beloved and enduring songs, and a classic of the folk rock genre.

9.River – Joni Mitchell

“River” is a melancholic and introspective song by Joni Mitchell that was released in 1971 as part of her album “Blue.” The song features Mitchell’s distinctive vocals and a haunting piano melody, creating a poignant and introspective sound. The lyrics describe the pain and regret of a failed relationship, with Mitchell using the metaphor of a river to express her feelings of loss and longing. The song’s melody is emotive and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the introspective and melancholic mood of the lyrics. “River” remains one of Mitchell’s most beloved and enduring songs, and a classic of the singer-songwriter genre.

10.Someone Like You – Adele

“Someone Like You” is a powerful and emotionally charged ballad by Adele that was released in 2011 as part of her second album “21.” The song features Adele’s soulful and powerful vocals, backed by a simple piano accompaniment that gradually builds with the addition of strings and drums. The lyrics describe the heartbreak and pain of a failed relationship, with Adele expressing her longing for closure and acceptance. The song’s melody is soaring and emotive, perfectly capturing the raw emotion of the lyrics. “Someone Like You” remains one of Adele’s most popular and beloved songs, and a modern classic of the ballad genre.

11.Hey, That’s No Way to Say Goodbye – Leonard Cohen

“Hey, That’s No Way to Say Goodbye” is a melancholic and introspective song by Leonard Cohen that was released in 1967 as part of his debut album “Songs of Leonard Cohen.” The song features Cohen’s distinctive baritone vocals and a gentle acoustic guitar accompaniment, creating a somber and introspective sound. The lyrics describe the complexities of love and the pain of separation, with Cohen expressing his reluctance to say goodbye to his lover. The song’s melody is haunting and emotive, perfectly capturing the introspective and melancholic mood of the lyrics. “Hey, That’s No Way to Say Goodbye” remains a classic of Cohen’s discography and a highlight of the singer-songwriter genre.

12.Nothing Compares 2 U – Sinead O’Connor

“Nothing Compares 2 U” is a powerful and emotive ballad by Sinead O’Connor that was released in 1990 as part of her album “I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got.” The song features O’Connor’s soulful and powerful vocals, backed by a simple piano and strings accompaniment that gradually builds to a powerful crescendo. The lyrics describe the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship, with O’Connor expressing her longing for her former lover and the emptiness she feels without them. The song’s melody is emotive and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the raw emotion of the lyrics. “Nothing Compares 2 U” remains one of O’Connor’s most iconic and enduring songs, and a modern classic of the ballad genre.

13.You Oughta Know – Alanis Morissette

“You Oughta Know” is a powerful and confrontational song by Alanis Morissette that was released in 1995 as part of her album “Jagged Little Pill.” The song features Morissette’s raw and emotive vocals, backed by driving guitars and drums that give the song a fierce energy. The lyrics describe the anger and frustration of a woman who has been jilted by her former lover, with Morissette expressing her desire for revenge and closure. The song’s melody is intense and explosive, perfectly capturing the raw emotion of the lyrics. “You Oughta Know” remains one of Morissette’s most iconic and memorable songs, and a classic of the alternative rock genre.

14.I Can’t Make You Love Me – Bonnie Raitt

“I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a haunting and heart-wrenching ballad by Bonnie Raitt that was released in 1991 as part of her album “Luck of the Draw.” The song features Raitt’s soulful and emotive vocals, backed by a delicate piano accompaniment and gentle guitar and strings that give the song a wistful and introspective sound. The lyrics describe the pain and futility of a one-sided love, with Raitt expressing her sadness and resignation in the face of her lover’s indifference. The song’s melody is emotive and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the raw emotion of the lyrics. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” remains one of Raitt’s most beloved and enduring songs, and a classic of the ballad genre.

15.Ain’t No Sunshine – Bill Withers

“Ain’t No Sunshine” is a soulful and melancholic song by Bill Withers that was released in 1971 as part of his debut album “Just As I Am.” The song features Withers’ smooth and emotive vocals, backed by a simple arrangement of guitar, bass, and drums that gives the song a sparse and intimate sound. The lyrics describe the loneliness and despair of a man whose lover has left him, with Withers repeating the refrain “ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone” throughout the song. The song’s melody is emotive and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the raw emotion of the lyrics. “Ain’t No Sunshine” remains one of Withers’ most beloved and enduring songs, and a classic of the soul genre.

16.Happier – By Marshmello Feat. Bastille

“Happier” is a catchy and emotive song by Marshmello featuring Bastille that was released in 2018. The song features upbeat electronic production with a driving beat and catchy hooks, as well as emotive vocals from Bastille’s lead singer Dan Smith. The lyrics describe the bittersweet feeling of seeing an ex move on and find happiness with someone else, with Smith expressing his hopes that his former lover will be happier with their new partner. The song’s melody is upbeat and catchy, with a hook that is easy to sing along to. “Happier” was a commercial success and remains a popular and catchy pop song.

17.Dry Your Eyes – The Streets

“Dry Your Eyes” is a poignant and emotional song by The Streets that was released in 2004 as part of their album “A Grand Don’t Come for Free.” The song features Mike Skinner’s introspective and emotive vocals, backed by a simple arrangement of acoustic guitar, piano, and strings that gives the song a sparse and intimate sound. The lyrics describe the heartbreak and pain of a man whose lover has left him, with Skinner offering words of comfort and support to his friend who is going through the same experience. The song’s melody is emotive and haunting, perfectly capturing the raw emotion of the lyrics. “Dry Your Eyes” remains one of The Streets’ most beloved and enduring songs, and a classic of the UK garage genre.

18.Tell Me How – Paramore

“Tell Me How” is an emotional and introspective song by Paramore that was released in 2017 as part of their album “After Laughter.” The song features lead singer Hayley Williams’ emotive vocals, backed by a simple arrangement of piano and atmospheric synths that give the song a wistful and introspective sound. The lyrics describe the pain and confusion of a failing relationship, with Williams expressing her frustration and longing for her partner to communicate with her. The song’s melody is emotive and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the raw emotion of the lyrics. “Tell Me How” showcases Paramore’s growth as a band, and their ability to create emotionally impactful and introspective music.