Get ready to feel all the emotions with this list of the saddest rock songs that will make you cry. Grab some tissues and check out the list of the most heart-wrenching songs below.
#1. “Here Come Those Tears Again” by Jackson Browne
If you’re looking for a sad rock song that will bring tears to your eyes, look no further than “Here Come Those Tears Again” by Jackson Browne.
This emotional ballad tells the story of a person struggling to move on from a past relationship and the pain and heartache that comes with it.
With Browne’s soulful vocals and poignant lyrics, it’s no wonder this song has become a classic for anyone in need of a good cry.
#2. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt
If you’re in the mood for some heart-wrenching music, look no further than Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me.”
This classic sad rock song is a powerful ballad about unrequited love and the pain of not being able to make someone feel the same way.
With haunting lyrics and Raitt’s soulful vocals, this song is sure to bring a tear to your eye.
#3. “Pale Blue Eye”s by The Velvet Underground
Looking for a sad rock song about love? Check out “Pale Blue Eyes” by The Velvet Underground.
This melancholic tune features lyrics about lost love and regret, set to a slow and haunting melody.
It’s a classic example of the emotional depth that rock music can convey, and a must-listen for anyone who’s ever experienced heartbreak.
#4. “Trouble” by Cat Stevens
This is a classic sad rock song about love. The lyrics express the pain and heartache of a troubled relationship.
With lyrics like “Oh, trouble, trouble, trouble, trouble, feels like every time I get back on my feet, she comes around and knocks me down again.”
The melancholic melody and Stevens’ emotive vocals add to the emotional impact of the song, making it a favorite for those who have experienced the ups and downs of love.
#5. “The Flame” by Cheap Trick
One of the saddest classic rock songs is “The Flame” by Cheap Trick. The song tells the story of a love that has ended, leaving the feeling lost and alone.
The lyrics are filled with heartache and longing, making it a favorite among fans who appreciate the emotional depth of classic rock ballads.
#6. “Space Oddity” by David Bowie
David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” is often considered one of the saddest classic rock songs. The melancholic melody and Bowie’s haunting vocals add to the emotional impact of the song, making it a timeless classic.
#7. “The River” by Bruce Springsteen
This song is often considered one of the saddest classic rock songs.
The lyrics tell the story of a young couple whose dreams are shattered by the harsh realities of life, leaving them feeling trapped and hopeless.
The haunting melody and Springsteen’s emotive vocals make this song a powerful and poignant tribute to the struggles of everyday people.
#8. “I Can’t Tell You Why” by The Eagles
One of the saddest rock songs of all time is “I Can’t Tell You Why” by The Eagles.
The song, released in 1979, is a heart-wrenching ballad about a failing relationship and the inability to explain why it’s falling apart.
The lyrics, combined with the soulful vocals and haunting guitar riffs, make for a truly emotional listening experience.
It’s no wonder this song has stood the test of time as a classic in the rock genre.
#9. “Can’t Get It Out of My Head” by Electric Light Orchestra
The haunting melody and lyrics about a lost love that can’t be forgotten have resonated with listeners for decades.
The song’s melancholic tone and emotional depth make it a classic in the genre of sad rock songs.
#10. “The Killing Of Georgie Pt. 1&2 by Rod Stewart
The lyrics are poignant and emotional, and Stewart’s vocals add to the overall feeling of heartbreak and loss. The song tells the story of a young gay man named Georgie who is murdered in New York City.
#11. “The Needle and the Damage Done” by Neil Young
The haunting lyrics and acoustic guitar melody tell the story of the devastating effects of drug addiction, on both the user and those around them.
The song was written by Young in the early 1970s and was inspired by the deaths of his friend due to drug abuse.
#12. “Changes” by Black Sabbath
The song, written by lead vocalist Ozzy Osbourne, is a departure from the band’s typical heavy metal sound and instead features a piano and strings.
The lyrics reflect on the changes and challenges of life, including the loss of loved ones and the struggle to find meaning in a world that can be cruel and unforgiving.
#13. “She’s Leaving Home” by The Beatles
One of the saddest rock songs of all time is “She’s Leaving Home” by The Beatles. The song tells the story of a young girl who runs away from home, leaving her parents heartbroken and searching for answers.
The haunting melody and poignant lyrics have made it a classic among fans of the band and of rock music in general.
#14. “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones
Considered by many to be one of the saddest rock songs ever, “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that speaks to the pain of lost love and the struggle to move on.
With its melancholy melody and poignant lyrics, the song has become a classic of the rock genre and a favorite of fans around the world.
Whether you’re feeling heartbroken or just in need of a good cry, “Wild Horses” is sure to tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling emotionally raw.
#15. “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)” by Elton John
The lyrics express the pain and loss felt by Elton and many others after Lennon’s death, making it a poignant and emotional tribute to a beloved musician.
#16. “Ride On” by AC/DC
“Ride On” by AC/DC is often considered one of the saddest rock songs ever written. The slow, bluesy tune tells the story of a man who has lost everything and is left with nothing but his motorcycle.
The lyrics are haunting and emotional, with lead singer Bon Scott’s raw vocals adding to the melancholy feel of the song. Despite its sadness, “Ride On” remains a beloved classic in the world of rock music.
#17. “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac
One of the saddest rock songs ever is “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac. The lyrics, written by Stevie Nicks, reflect on the passage of time and the changes that come with it.
The song has been covered by numerous artists and has become a beloved classic in the rock genre. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics continue to resonate with listeners today.
#18. “Keep Me in Your Heart” by Warren Zevon
If you’re looking for a sad rock song about love, “Keep Me in Your Heart” by Warren Zevon is a great choice.
The song was released in 2003, just a year before Zevon’s death from lung cancer. It’s a poignant and heartfelt tribute to the power of love and the pain of loss.
The lyrics are simple but powerful, and the melody is hauntingly beautiful. If you’re in the mood for a good cry, this song is sure to deliver.
#19. “All My Love” by Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin’s “All My Love” is a heart-wrenching, soulful ballad about the power of love and how it can sometimes be fleeting despite its intensity.
With its beautiful lyrics, powerful guitars, and plaintive vocals, this sad rock song perfectly captures the pain of saying goodbye to something you thought would last forever.
#20. “Sure Got Cold After the Rain Fell” by ZZ Top
“Sure Got Cold After the Rain Fell” by ZZ Top tells the story of heartbreak and loss like few other rock songs can.
The song’s underlying sadness is captured in its moody guitars and bluesy vocals, while its lyrical imagery poignantly paints a picture of a relationship that has gone wrong.
Initially hopeful and upbeat, the song gradually gives way to resignation as its narrator realizes that his love will never return.
For many listeners, this classic track captures both the pain and beauty of unrequited love like no other song can.
#21. “The Weight of Love” by Black Keys
If you’re in the mood for some melancholic rock music, “The Weight of Love” by Black Keys is a great choice.
With its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, this song is sure to tug at your heartstrings.
#22. “One” by Metallica
Metallica’s “One” is a classic example of a sad rock song. The lyrics tell the story of a soldier who has lost his limbs, sight, hearing, and ability to speak and is trapped in his own body.
The haunting melody and heavy guitar riffs add to the emotional weight of the song.
#23. “The End” by The Doors
One of the most iconic sad rock songs is “The End” by The Doors. With its haunting lyrics and Jim Morrison’s emotional delivery, the song explores themes of death and loss.
It has become a classic in the rock genre and continues to resonate with listeners today.
#24. “Nutshell” by Alice in Chains
One of the most well-known sad rock songs is “Nutshell” by Alice in Chains. The haunting lyrics and melancholic melody capture the pain and struggle of loneliness.
#25. “Villains of Circumstance” by Queens of The Stone Age
The lyrics are full of regret and resignation as the person moves on from their broken dreams, and finds themselves in an uncertain place.
This harrowing ballad ultimately serves as an emotional reminder of how our decisions can lead to heartbreak and despair – something many listeners can relate to.
#26. “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac
“Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac is one of the saddest love rock songs ever written.
It tells a story of a love lost, with heartbreakingly honest lyrics like “Loving you isn’t the right thing to do” and “Talking about breaking up is never an easy thing to do”.
The song’s inspiring and uplifting melody, combined with its melancholic words make it a timeless classic that still resonates with people today.
Despite its melancholic theme, it ultimately serves as a reminder that no matter how hard things may seem right now, there is always hope for brighter days ahead.
#27. “The Wind Cries Mary” by Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix’s “The Wind Cries Mary” is often considered one of the saddest rock songs. With its haunting melody and melancholic lyrics, the song tells the story of lost love and the pain of heartbreak.
Hendrix’s soulful guitar playing adds to the emotional depth of the song
#28. “Out of Tears” by The Rolling Stones
The lyrics tell a beautiful story of pain, loss, and heartache that resonates with many people. It features emotive and haunting vocals that together create a powerful atmosphere of sadness and despair.
The story follows a broken-hearted protagonist who is attempting to cope with the end of an important relationship, though it takes all his might to fight off his overwhelming sorrows.
#29. “Yesterday” by The Beatles
“Yesterday” is a classic song by the iconic British band, The Beatles. It was released in 1965 and has since become one of the most covered songs in history.
The song features a simple melody and heartfelt lyrics that have resonated with audiences for decades.
#30. “Crying All the Time” by Alexandra Savior
This is one of the saddest rock songs. It speaks to the human experience of heartache and sorrow, while also acknowledging that we can’t always control our emotions.
The lyrics refer to the sadness that follows a relationship gone wrong, as well as trying and failing to get it back on track.
The vocals soar above the music, driving home the message that no matter how much we try, sometimes nothing can save us from our own feelings of despair.
#31. “Pictures of You” by The Cure
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4zGvXYNw3A
“Pictures of You” by The Cure is a wistful, melancholic song about the bittersweet memories of lost love.
Written by lead singer Robert Smith and released in 1989, it is possibly one of the band’s most well-known ballads.
#32. “Under the Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
The Cure’s “Pictures of You” is a melancholic song that captures the pain of lost love and memories. The haunting melody and lyrics evoke a sense of longing and sadness, making it a popular choice for those in need of a good cry or emotional release.
#33. “The Time Has Come Again” by The Last Shadow Puppets
The Last Shadow Puppets’ “The Time Has Come Again” is a melancholic tune that tugs at the heartstrings.
With its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, it’s the perfect song to listen to when you’re feeling down and need to cry.
The emotional depth of the song is sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced heartbreak or loss.
#34. “Linger” by Cranberries
The melancholic melody and haunting lyrics of “Linger” by the Cranberries have the power to evoke deep emotions and tug at the heartstrings of listeners.
The song’s mournful tone and poignant lyrics about a past love that still lingers in the mind and heart make it a classic sad song that resonates with many.
#35. “Bother” by Stone Sour
“Bother” by Stone Sour is a poignant and emotional song that touches on themes of loneliness, heartbreak, and despair.
The haunting melody and powerful lyrics resonate with listeners, evoking a sense of sadness and introspection.
The song’s raw and honest portrayal of pain and loss has made it a favorite among fans of alternative rock and has cemented its place as a classic sad song.
#36. “Bittersweet Symphony” by The Verve
This is a melancholic song that captures the feeling of longing and regret. The haunting melody and poignant lyrics evoke a sense of sadness and introspection, making it a popular choice for those seeking a cathartic listening experience.
#37. “Blue Denim” by Stevie Nicks
This is a heart-wrenching song that captures the pain of lost love. With haunting lyrics and a melancholic melody, the vocals convey a sense of longing and sadness that is sure to tug at the heartstrings of listeners.
#38. “All Apologies” by Nirvana
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUJ699t3xXU
Stevie Nicks’ “Blue Denim” is a heart-wrenching song that captures the pain of lost love. With haunting lyrics and a melancholic melody, Nicks’ vocals convey a sense of longing and sadness that is sure to tug at the heartstrings of listeners.
#39. “Lover, You Should’ve Come Over” by Jeff Buckley
Jeff Buckley’s “Lover, You Should’ve Come Over” is a hauntingly beautiful rock ballad that showcases his incredible vocal range and emotional depth.
The song’s melancholic lyrics and soaring guitar riffs have made it a beloved classic among rock fans.
#40. “You See Me Crying” by Aerosmith
This is a classic rock song that captures the emotion of heartache and longing. It tells the story of a broken relationship in which one person has moved on while the other is still stuck in the past.
#42. “November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses
With its powerful lyrics, melodic guitar riffs, and explosive choruses, the song paints an emotional portrait of love fading away with time.
#43. “Let Down” by Radiohead
The lyrics express a sense of sadness and disillusionment towards modern society and technology as evidenced by lines like “you know you should be glad/but you don’t feel so good.”
#44. “My Immortal” by Evanescence
This is a timeless rock classic. It is a powerful and emotive piece of music that expresses the pain of losing someone you love.
The thunderous guitar riffs create an aggressive atmosphere, setting the mood for an intense emotional experience.
The prominent piano melodies add a layer of beauty to the song while providing moments of respite from its otherwise dark tone.
#45. “Snuff” by Slipknot
The opening lyrics paint the picture of a protagonist in despair who finds solace in finding someone to believe in and love. The track contains dark undertones and profound lyrics, as well as aggressive guitar riffs that further add to its gripping atmosphere.
#46. Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton
“Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton is a classic rock song from his album, Unplugged. It expresses the deep sorrow of losing someone close and reflects on how life will be different without them.
#47. “Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Greenday
“Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Green Day is a rock song about loss and reflection.
The song encapsulates the pain and sadness associated with the passing of a loved one, while also conveying hope that time will heal all wounds.
The bittersweet lyrics tell an emotional story of how memories linger on and bring back both joy and sorrow.
#48. “I Should Have Known” by Foo Fighters
“I Should Have Known” by Foo Fighters is a powerful rock song that evokes intense emotions.
The emotion-packed lyrics are set to an energetic musical backdrop featuring driving guitar riffs and rhythmic drumbeats that make it the perfect anthem for those who want to express their feelings of regret.
#49. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd is a sad classic rock song. The song expresses a feeling of longing for someone who is absent and mourning the fact that they are no longer around.
#50. “Blackout” by Muse
The song “Blackout” by the British rock band Muse is a powerful and intense track that showcases the band’s signature sound.
The lyrics explore themes of darkness, isolation, and the struggle to find hope in difficult times, making it a favorite among fans of the band’s music.
#51. “The Garden” by Rush
The Garden by Rush is a melancholic rock song that talks about the inevitability of life’s changing cycles in both happy and sad moments.
The song serves as an important reminder that sorrow will always be there to balance joy, yet it also conveys the hope that despite change, there can be new beginnings.
#52. “Julia” by The Beatles
“Julia” by The Beatles is a melancholic rock song written by John Lennon, with Paul McCartney credited as its co-writer.
With soft acoustic guitar accompaniment and subtle yet effective vocal harmonies from Lennon and McCartney, this classic Beatles song conveys a raw emotion that speaks to anyone who has ever been in love: heartache, longing, loneliness, and hope for redemption.
#53. “Who Wants to Live Forever” by Queen
“Who Wants to Live Forever” by Queen is a rock anthem that taps into the core of mortality and explores the idea of everlasting life.
The lyrics contemplate a world where “love is alive forever” and raise questions about what it really means to be immortal.
#54. “Hurt” by Nine Inch Nails
“Hurt” by Nine Inch Nails is an iconic rock song that speaks to the deepest recesses of the human soul.
The hard-hitting rhythm, brooding melodies and searing lyrics combine to create a powerful soundscape of struggle and despair.
#56. “Don’t Go Away” by Oasis
Oasis’ “Don’t Go Away” is an emotionally resonant, yet heartbreakingly sad rock ballad that can make even the toughest person shed a tear.
#57. “Lazarus” by David Bowie
If you’re looking for a sad rock song that will make you cry, “Lazarus” by David Bowie is a great choice. The song was released in 2016, just days before Bowie’s death, and the lyrics are hauntingly prophetic.
The melancholic melody and Bowie’s emotive vocals make for a powerful and emotional listening experience.
#58. “Don’t Give Up” by Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel’s “Don’t Give Up” is a heart-wrenching rock ballad that has the power to bring tears to your eyes.
The song’s lyrics and Gabriel’s emotive vocals combine to create a powerful message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.
#59. “Love Hurts” by Incubus
“Love Hurts” by Incubus is a sad rock song about love with an emotional and vulnerable message. It tells the story of a relationship gone wrong and the narrator’s struggle to cope with it.
The lyrics are deeply personal, sharing pain and sadness over broken love and the challenges that come with it.
#60. “Lost Cause” by Beck
Lost Cause by Beck is an emotional and hauntingly sad rock song. It shows the singer’s feelings of being insecure, lost and feeling like a burden on everyone around.
The lyrics are beautifully written, expressing complex emotions without relying on metaphors or cliches. He sings of being stuck in a rut and how he’s ‘sick of trying’ to get out of it.
FAQ
Below are some FAQs related to the saddest rock songs:
Why is rock music sad?
While not all rock music is sad, many songs in the genre do tend to have a melancholic or introspective tone. This can be attributed to the genre’s roots in blues and folk music, which often dealt with themes of heartbreak, loss, and struggle.
Additionally, many rock musicians have used their music as a form of catharsis, expressing their own personal pain and emotions through their lyrics and sound.
Is rock music damaging?
Rock music has been heavily debated with regard to whether or not it is damaging. On one hand, some people argue that rock music can lead to aggression and a lack of focus.
On the other hand, studies suggest that this style of music can act as a form of therapy for some people and be used as a creative outlet for self-expression.
Ultimately, it depends on the individual and how they choose to use rock music; if listened to responsibly and in moderation, it can be an enjoyable experience without any adverse effects.
Is it OK to listen to rock?
Yes, it is perfectly okay to listen to rock. Rock music has been around for decades and is loved by millions of people worldwide.
The genre also includes many subgenres such as blues-rock, jazz-rock, and indie-rock.
Listening to rock can be an exciting experience as the high-energy beats combined with powerful lyrics can give a sense of freedom, power, and inspiration in life.
Moreover, due to its huge fanbase and evolution over time, there will always be something new to discover when listening to rock so it never gets old!
Is it good to sleep with rock music?
It really depends on the individual. Some people find that listening to rock music helps them relax and fall asleep, while others find it too stimulating and prefer softer, more calming music.
It’s important to experiment and find what works best for you.
How does rock affect the brain?
Studies have shown that listening to music, including rock, can activate the brain’s reward system and release dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation.
It can also improve mood, reduce stress, and even enhance cognitive function.
However, the effects can vary depending on individual preferences and the specific type of music being listened to.
Why rock music is good for your health?
Studies have shown that listening to rock music can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even improve cognitive function.
The high-energy beats and lyrics can also boost mood and motivation, making it a great choice for workouts or when you need a pick-me-up.
Plus, playing an instrument or singing along can provide a creative outlet and improve overall well-being.
Are metal fans smarter?
No scientific evidence exists to definitively answer the question “Are metal fans smarter?”. However, there is anecdotal evidence that suggests metal fans may actually be more knowledgeable than their peers in certain areas.
Studies have found that metal music sparks creativity and increases a person’s ability to complete cognitive tasks, suggesting that metal fans may have an enhanced capacity for problem-solving.
Is rock music for introverts?
Rock music has been a popular genre across the world for decades and has often been associated with introverts.
It is mainly because of its slow, steady rhythm and melancholy lyrics that can be comforting to those who are naturally more introverted.
Ultimately, rock music does have a certain appeal to introverts as it allows them to express themselves in a way that feels comfortable to them.
Why are metal fans so nice?
Metal fans are some of the most passionate and dedicated music lovers around. It’s this enthusiasm and dedication that has earned them a reputation for being so nice. They know how important it is to support each other.
Are heavy metal fans violent?
No, heavy metal fans are not violent. Heavy metal music is often associated with a culture of rebellion and anti-social behavior, but research has consistently shown that heavy metal fans are no more likely to be violent than fans of any other genre.
In fact, the majority of heavy metal enthusiasts identify themselves as peaceful individuals who simply enjoy the music and appreciate the message it conveys.
Heavy metal can often be an outlet for those looking to express feelings of anger and frustration, yet these same feelings can easily be found in people who prefer other genres.
Overall, the stereotype that all heavy metal fans are violent is false and unsupported by evidence.
What personality types listen to metal?
People who listen to metal music come from a variety of personality types. Many are drawn to the intensity and emotionality of metal, as well as its musical complexity.
Metal fans often have darker aesthetics, favoring black clothing and leather jackets.
Generally, people attracted to metal music tend to be independent thinkers who prefer freedom over societal norms.
They are often seen as rebels or outsiders who push boundaries and create their own paths in life.
Despite its sometimes disturbing subject matter and aesthetic, metalhead culture is actually full of warmth, camaraderie, and creativity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sadness is a part of life and music can often be a great outlet to express and explore these emotions.
The songs featured in the post are some of the most popular sad rock songs that evoke strong emotions and bring people closer together.
Whether you are going through a breakup, grieving loss, or just feeling down, these songs may provide comfort during difficult times.
