Music and heartbreak go hand in hand. Just think about it — so many classic songs were penned after a monumental breakup. Love and lust are two of the topics that make certain lyrics so relatable. Music is also a great way to get over someone. Sure, the song may forever be tainted by the memory of the split, but in a way, it’ll serve as the perfect memento from a connection that just wasn’t meant to be. Here are 11 great songs to listen to that’ll help ease your heartache.
- “Back To Black,” Amy Winehouse Amy was such an amazing talent with incredible vocals. While it’s a shame that she passed away so young, at least people will always get to hear her voice. “I didn’t really have anything else to go back to so I guess I went back to a black for a few months, you know… Doing silly things, as you do when you’re 22 and you’re young and in love,” she explained to CNN.
- “Since U Been Gone,” Kelly Clarkson This one’s a personal favorite. Just ask my roommates circa-2003. They were forced to listen to Kelly Clarkson on loop after a relationship had soured. This song is more or less an anthem. When the guy is out of your life, you’ll come out of it stronger than ever. The lyrics are simple but powerful. “But since you been gone, I can breathe for the first time. I’m so moving on, Yeah, yeah. Thanks to you, Now I get what I want.”
- “My Happy Ending,” Avril Lavigne This was another one that was in constant rotation about a year later. Think what you will about Avril Lavigne, but her second studio album really had a lot of heart and emotion behind it. Feel free to belt out “We were meant to be, supposed to be, but we lost it” as loud as you want in the comforts of your own home.
- “Into Your Arms,” The Lemonheads This one is straight-up one of my favorite songs. The Lemonheads are often forgotten when it comes to ’90s nostalgia, but their hit “Into Your Arms” is one of the most subtly romantic songs out there. Keep in mind, this one might make you a bit sadder if you didn’t have enough ample time to breathe. It could maybe serve as your new theme song for your next relationship.
- “Song For The Dumped,” Ben Folds Five Did you get dumped and feel bitter about it? Well, do I have the song for you. I was blasting “Song For The Dumped” well before I even had my first boyfriend, knowing it’d likely be my fallback song in case the inevitable happened. This one was even based on a true story. Drummer Darren Jessee reportedly got dumped by his now-ex girlfriend Summer after paying for their dinner.
- “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together,” Taylor Swift A lot of Taylor Swift songs will help ease your heartache. The reason is that Taylor helped heal her own heart by writing music and “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” is one of the best. Even the song title will serve as the perfect chant as you quietly list all of the reasons why this guy doesn’t deserve you. This song, in particular, is rumored to be about actor Jake Gyllenhaal.
- “All I Ask,” Adele Adele is also a great artist to reference when it comes to heartbreaking ballads. “All I Ask” is off of her album 25 and includes powerful lyrics like “If this is my last night with you, Hold me like I’m more than just a friend.” If you’re not feeling this one, you should try “Someone Like You.” It always gives me chills.
- “You Oughta Know,” Alanis Morissette Let’s take a moment to bow down to Alanis Morissette. The popular singer, who just announced a huge tour, even has a musical celebrating her music. In 1995, “Jagged Little Pill” was the album that everyone had in their collection and could never part with. If you’re angry and bitter about your breakup, this song will put you in a much better place.
- “Ex-Girlfriend,” No Doubt This song isn’t as powerful as “You Oughta Know,” but it still deserves a spot on the list. If your heartache is due to a fling, this song will truly speak to you. In it, Gwen Stefani claims that she knew it wouldn’t work out from the start, but still took a chance. “I kinda always knew I’d end up your ex-girlfriend,” she sings. “I hope I hold a special place with the rest of them.” Let’s be happy that she’s since found love with Blake Shelton.
- “Ex’s & Oh’s,” Elle King Singer Elle King explicitly talks about four relationships that fell apart in the song “Ex’s & Oh’s,” which is quite brave. Back in 2015, Entertainment Weekly pegged her as being “rock’s new renegade.” It’s safe to say that she got the last laugh after these relationships perished since the song went platinum.
- “Without You,” The Cure When you break up with someone, you have to listen to The Cure. It’s almost a rule. “Without You” might make you cry, but it’ll also help you heal. Take the time to be upset and then remember that a better relationship is right around the corner.
