15 Best Songs About Feeling Sad

Sadness is a universal emotion that we all experience at some point in our lives. Music has the power to amplify and validate those feelings. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best songs about feeling sad that capture the raw emotion of heartbreak, loss, and despair. From iconic ballads to modern hits, these songs have resonated with listeners and become anthems for those navigating challenging times.

If you’re a fan of songs about Feeling Sad, you may also enjoy songs about Jealousy, songs of 2006, songs about Long Distance Love, and songs of 2002.

“Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M.

“Everybody Hurts” is a tender and poignant song exploring people’s struggles and hardships. Through its evocative lyrics and soulful melody, R.E.M. delivers a message of empathy and hope to those who are suffering. The song speaks directly to the hearts of listeners, offering a comforting reminder that no one is alone in their struggles and that everyone experiences pain and hardship at some point in their lives. 

The song’s gentle yet powerful delivery provides solace to those feeling lost or hopeless, and its message of resilience and perseverance is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. With its timeless appeal, “Everybody Hurts” remains an essential and cherished anthem of comfort and hope for generations of music lovers.”

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“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong

“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong is a masterpiece of songwriting that has touched the hearts of millions. The song’s opening trumpet melody sets the stage for Armstrong’s soulful and passionate delivery as he sings of the beauty and wonder of the world around us. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, capturing the essence of life universally and timelessly. The song speaks to the good in humanity, reminding us to appreciate the small things in life and never lose sight of the beauty surrounding us. 

Armstrong’s unique vocal style and specific phrasing bring the song’s message to life, making it a true classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether it’s the first time you’ve heard the song or the hundredth, “What a Wonderful World” has the power to move you, to inspire you, and to fill you with hope for a brighter future.”

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“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana is a powerful and impactful song that changed the course of rock music forever. The track was released in 1991 and quickly became an anthem for disaffected youth and alternative music fans. Kurt Cobain’s lyrics, which touch on apathy and disillusionment, are delivered with raw passion and emotion. The guitar riff, driven by distorted power chords, is catchy and abrasive, perfectly encapsulating the song’s intensity. 

The driving rhythm section, with its heavy bassline and driving drum beat, adds to the overall energy of the track, creating a musical experience that is both powerful and unforgettable. To this day, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” remains one of the most iconic and beloved songs of the alternative rock genre and a testament to the timeless appeal of Nirvana’s music.

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“I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLachlan

Sarah McLachlan’s “I Will Remember You” is a powerful ballad that captures the essence of loss and the struggle to move on. The song’s poignant lyrics, set to a gentle and melodic arrangement, offer comfort and hope in the face of heartache. McLachlan’s beautiful and haunting voice conveys longing and sadness as she sings about the memories she will treasure forever. 

The song’s simple and elegant instrumentation provides the perfect backdrop for McLachlan’s voice, making it a timeless masterpiece that speaks to the hearts of listeners everywhere. Whether you’re losing a loved one or feeling nostalgic, this song will evoke deep emotions and bring comfort and solace.

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“Fix You” by Coldplay

“Fix You” is an evocative masterpiece by the British rock band Coldplay, which showcases the group’s exceptional talent for creating music that is both intimate and grandiose. The song opens with a slow, mournful piano melody that sets the tone for the emotional journey that is to come. As the song progresses, the instrumentation builds, with soaring strings and a driving beat adding to the epic feel of the piece. 

The lyrics of “Fix You” are incredibly moving, as they express a desire to help someone through a difficult time, to be there to lift them and offer a shoulder to lean on. With its uplifting message and powerful instrumentation, “Fix You” is a song that will resonate with listeners and provide comfort and solace in times of need.

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“Everybody’s Talkin'” by Harry Nilsson

“Everybody’s Talkin'” by Harry Nilsson is a folksy, upbeat song that tells the story of a man looking for a way to escape the noise and chaos of the world. The song’s simple, repetitive melody is driven by a folksy acoustic guitar and accompanied by lighthearted lyrics that encourage listeners to embrace the journey and find their path. Nilsson’s voice is strong and confident, capturing the spirit of the song and delivering its message with authenticity and heart. 

With its charming sound and uplifting message, “Everybody’s Talkin'” is the perfect anthem for anyone looking to escape the noise and find peace and solitude. Whether on a road trip, walking in nature, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, this song will surely bring a smile and a sense of comfort to your heart.

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“Someone Like You” by Adele

“Someone Like You” is a beautifully crafted song showcasing Adele’s emotional storytelling mastery. The song is a melancholy rumination on a lost love, as the singer reflects on the memories she shared with someone who is now out of her life. With its haunting melody and Adele’s soulful vocals, the song transports the listener to a place of deep introspection and sadness. 

The lyrics are powerful and relatable, as the singer expresses her hope for finding someone who can bring back the happiness she once felt. The song’s gentle piano-driven arrangement perfectly complements Adele’s voice, creating a powerful and unforgettable musical experience.

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“Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel

“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a masterpiece of modern folk music, a song that has captured the hearts of listeners for generations. With its elegant, soaring melody and lush orchestral arrangement, this iconic track is haunting and beautiful, offering hope and comfort in a world that can often seem harsh and unforgiving. 

Paul Simon’s insightful lyrics paint a vivid picture of the difficulties we all face, but they also offer a glimmer of light in the form of a steadfast friend who will help us cross troubled waters. Whether you are listening to “Bridge Over Troubled Water” for the first time or the hundredth, this song can uplift and inspire, reminding us of our deep connection.

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“The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel

“The Sound of Silence” is a haunting and sad ballad first released by Simon & Garfunkel in 1964. With its simple yet evocative melody and piercingly insightful lyrics, the song has become one of the most iconic and enduring works in the history of popular music. At its core, “The Sound of Silence” is a meditation on the isolation and loneliness that can often accompany modern life. 

It is a call to action for people to connect on a deeper, more meaningful level. The song’s timeless message, delivered with a delicate and delicate touch, continues to resonate with listeners today. It is an essential and powerful piece of art that speaks to the human experience in all its complexity.

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“Yesterday” by The Beatles

“Yesterday” by The Beatles is a musical masterpiece that showcases the incredible songwriting talent of Paul McCartney. With its captivating melody, powerful lyrics, and soulful delivery, “Yesterday” accurately represents the iconic band’s musical prowess. The song’s simple structure and instrumentation, consisting of only McCartney’s acoustic guitar and his vocals, highlight the raw emotion and vulnerability expressed in the lyrics. 

Through its melancholic and reflective lyrics, “Yesterday” captures the pain of lost love and the universal longing we have all experienced at some point. The song’s timeless appeal has cemented its place as one of the most beloved and enduring tracks in the history of popular music.

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“Hurt” by Johnny Cash

“Hurt” by Johnny Cash is a haunting and moving tribute to the human condition. With its powerful and poignant lyrics, the song explores the complex emotions that come with life’s struggles, including regret, pain, and self-reflection. The song’s simple yet effective musical arrangement, featuring Cash’s deep and soulful voice over a haunting piano melody, adds to its emotional impact. 

The music and lyrics create a powerful and unforgettable musical experience, showcasing Cash’s mastery of the Americana genre and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. “Hurt” is a testament to the enduring legacy of Johnny Cash and his impact on popular music.

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“All I Could Do Was Cry” by Etta James

Etta James’ “All I Could Do Was Cry” is a timeless expression of heartbreak and loss. This blues ballad features James’ soulful voice at its finest as she sings about a love that has gone wrong. The song begins with a sense of disbelief as the protagonist learns of her lover’s infidelity. The mood quickly turns to sadness and despair, with James’ powerful voice conveying the total weight of her character’s emotions. 

Her voice is raw and emotional, making it impossible not to feel the pain and sadness she is expressing. With its simple but powerful melody, “All I Could Do Was Cry” has become one of James’ most beloved and enduring tracks and is a true testament to the power of the blues genre.

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“Stay” by Rihanna ft. Mikky Ekko

“Stay” is a melancholy masterpiece exploring a failing relationship’s complexities. Featuring the stunning vocals of Rihanna and the haunting harmonies of Mikky Ekko, this song is a stunning representation of contemporary R&B. The song opens with a slow piano melody that creates an atmosphere of sadness and regret. 

Rihanna’s soulful voice conveys the pain of the narrator struggling to keep her relationship together. Ekko’s harmonies add emotional depth to the song, creating a sense of longing and despair. The chorus is a mighty, emotional outpouring, with Rihanna begging her lover to stay, while Ekko’s harmonies add a haunting quality to the song. This song is a genuinely moving tribute to the power of love and the pain of heartbreak.

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“Say You Love Me” by Fleetwood Mac

“Say You Love Me” by Fleetwood Mac is a classic love song that showcases the band’s signature blend of folk-rock and pop influences. The song features a beautiful, soaring melody underpinning a solid bass line and a percussive beat. Stevie Nicks delivers a soulful and emotional vocal performance as she sings about the longing and vulnerability of being in love. Her lyrics are simple and direct yet consequential in their expression of love and devotion. 

The instrumentation on the track is lush and full, with intricate guitar work, lush harmonies, and intricate drumming to create a rich and dynamic soundscape. Overall, “Say You Love Me” is a timeless love song that captures the essence of Fleetwood Mac’s iconic sound.

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“Sledgehammer” by Peter Gabriel

“Sledgehammer” by Peter Gabriel is an upbeat and quirky track that showcases his unique blend of rock, pop, and world music. The song’s bright horns, driving beat, and catchy chorus have made it one of the most iconic and memorable tracks of the 80s. The lyrics, which describe the unbridled passion and determination of someone in love, are delivered with Gabriel’s distinctive vocal style and convey a playful energy. 

The music video for “Sledgehammer” was a technological marvel of its time, combining live-action and animation to create a visually stunning experience. The video’s imaginative and playful spirit is a testament to Gabriel’s creativity and continues to be a defining moment in the history of music videos. To this day, “Sledgehammer” remains a classic and a testament to Gabriel’s enduring musical legacy.

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Best Songs About Feeling Sad Recap

In conclusion, music can evoke deep emotions, and there is no shortage of songs that capture the essence of sadness. The above list of Best Songs About Feeling Sad is a starting point for anyone looking for solace or catharsis in music. No matter what you’re going through, remember that you’re not alone, and there’s always a song out there that can speak to your heart.

Don’t miss out! Check out our other playlists about songs by Lana Del Rey, songs of 2017, songs about Pride Month, and songs about Anxiety.