Musicians create music from their own experiences with the hope of touching others going through the same situation. One of the most prominent emotions that appears in music across generations is heartbreak. Break-up songs for an artist are among the most revealing, raw and true tunes in their catalogues.
The artist’s truth that is revealed in these songs allow others to heal and let go of their pain. The songs, whether they speak to the pain or the reclamation of one’s own power, become anthems for recovery. Each lyric becomes weaved into the spirit of the person experiencing its truth. Break-up songs serve both the creator and the listener, each finding their own sense of peace from them.
There are multiple emotional phases that one must go through when healing and letting go of a relationship. However, these 10 break-up songs will help you every step of the way.
“Take a Bow” by Rihanna
In a little over three minutes, Rihanna delivered one of the most iconic break-up songs of the last decade. “Take a Bow,” a bonus track from the rerelease of her third studio album “Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded,” features RiRi singing about the end of a relationship. The song’s lyrics fully embodies the spirit of being completely done with an ex, with no chance of rekindling. This song is for women who are tired of excuses and drama, making it perfect for letting go of a relationship.
“Me, Myself and I” by Beyoncé
Queen Bey made her debut as a solo artist in 2003 with the “Dangerously in Love” studio album. Along with other timeless hits from that release, “Me, Myself and I” stood out as an empowering female anthem. In the break-up song, Beyoncé encourages women to find strength in their independence and self-reliance.
“Cry For You” by Jodeci
Legendary R&B group Jodeci’s “Cry For You” is the go-to break-up song for a fresh break up. Released in 1993 on their sophomore album “Diary of a Mad Band,” this song tells the story of a man who just lost his lover and doesn’t believe he can live without the person. The introduction, which is spoken over the classic 90s beat, sets the tone for listeners. “Cry For You” is the break-up song to play when you want a good cry to release your feelings.
“Nobody Gets Me” by SZA
As the recipient of four awards at the 2024 Grammys, SZA’s music clearly resonates with her audience. “Nobody Gets Me,” a song on the Best Progressive R&B Album “SOS,” brings listeners into her world after her break-up. The ballad embodies the singer’s emotions, showcasing her feelings of melancholy and longing. It’s the perfect song to play when the break-up is fresh to start the healing process.
“I Should’ve Cheated” by Keyshia Cole
Keyshia Cole’s “I Should Have Cheated” tells the story of a situation that many women know all too well: gaslighting. The lyrics showcase a woman who found out her now ex-boyfriend cheated on her, after accusing her of the same thing. The break-up song is perfect for women who have been wronged in their relationship.
“Call Out My Name” by The Weeknd
Abel Tesfaye, known publicly as The Weeknd, is an artist who is no stranger to making hits. With numerous awards and accolades attached to his name, Tesfaye continuously releases music that resonates with the community. “Call Out My Name” from his 2018 release “My Dear, Melancholy,” is a break-up song about putting more into a relationship than the other person. The lyrics showcase his desire for the person to love and need him, as much as he does for them.
“Before You Walk Out My Life” by Monica
In 1995, Monica released a song that would stand the test of time. Featured on her debut album, “Before You Walk Out My Life” is a break-up song that emphasizes getting peace at the end at the end of a relationship. She admits to things that she could have done better, acknowledging that she didn’t mean to hurt her partner. However, knowing that the relationship is finished, she wanted to make things right between them. The song is the perfect tune to play during your time of acceptance and peace.
“So Sick” by Ne-Yo
Ne-Yo is an R&B legend with music, producing and writing credits position him as a top artist in the genre. While his debut album consists of many timeless hits, “So Sick” is a standout among the rest. Ne-Yo sings about being over the love songs, the tears and the sadness. The break-up song is all about reconciling with the end of a relationship and moving on.
“Pick Up Your Feelings” by Jazmine Sullivan
Jazmine Sullivan’s “Heaux Tales” came at the best time and received raving reviews. The 14-track album features iconic songs, including the “Pick Up Your Feelings.” The break-up song embodies the feeling of moving on completely after a relationship. Sullivan urges an ex-lover to come and pick up all of the things that he left at her door. Through her lyrics, she is urging every woman to return all of the extra baggage and reclaim their power.
“End of the Road” by Boyz II Men
As a popular R&B group emerging from the 90s, Boyz II Men has a catalogue of extraordinary hits. In their debut album, “Cooleyhighharmony” the then-quartet released the soulful ballad “End of the Road.” The lyrics symbolizes someone knowing its the end of a relationship, even though they’re not ready to let go. It’s a break-up song that fully embodies the nuances of an ending relationship.