Hey guys! Feeling a little down or just in the mood for some emotional tunes? You've come to the right place. In this article, we're diving deep into the top 10 sad songs of 2021 that you can download as MP3s. Get ready to grab your headphones, maybe a box of tissues, and let's get started. These songs are perfect for those moments when you just need to feel understood and let your emotions flow. Music has a powerful way of connecting with our deepest feelings, and these tracks are no exception.

Why Sad Songs?

Before we jump into the list, let's talk about why we even enjoy sad songs. It might seem counterintuitive to want to listen to something that makes us feel down, but there's actually a lot of psychology behind it. Sad songs can be incredibly cathartic. They allow us to process our emotions in a safe and controlled environment. When we listen to a song that resonates with our feelings of sadness or loss, it can feel like we're not alone in our experiences. This sense of connection can be incredibly comforting.

Furthermore, sad songs often have beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics that can be deeply moving. They can evoke a sense of nostalgia, remind us of past experiences, and help us to appreciate the beauty in life, even amidst the pain. Many people find that listening to sad songs actually improves their mood in the long run, as it allows them to confront and work through their emotions rather than suppressing them. Plus, sometimes it just feels good to have a good cry! So, without further ado, let's dive into our top 10 list of sad songs from 2021.

1. "drivers license" - Olivia Rodrigo

Alright, let's kick things off with a mega-hit that pretty much defined the sad song landscape of 2021: "drivers license" by Olivia Rodrigo. This song took the world by storm with its raw, honest lyrics and Rodrigo's incredibly emotive vocals. The song perfectly captures the heartbreak and confusion of a first love gone wrong. It's the kind of song that makes you want to scream-sing in your car (or maybe that's just me!).

Why it's a tearjerker: The lyrics are so specific and relatable, detailing the mundane realities of moving on after a breakup, like driving through the suburbs and seeing the places you used to go with your ex. Rodrigo's delivery is also incredibly vulnerable, making you feel like you're right there with her, experiencing the pain firsthand. The build-up in the song, from the quiet verses to the explosive bridge, is masterfully done, creating an emotional rollercoaster that's hard to resist. If you've ever gone through a tough breakup, this song will hit you right in the feels. It's the ultimate anthem for heartbroken teens (and adults!).

2. "traitor" - Olivia Rodrigo

Clearly, Olivia Rodrigo knows how to write a sad song! Coming in at number two is another gem from her debut album, "SOUR": "traitor." This song explores the complex emotions of betrayal and the lingering questions that haunt you after a relationship ends. It's not just about the initial act of betrayal, but also the slow burn of realizing that someone you trusted wasn't who you thought they were. The lyrical storytelling in "traitor" is top-notch, painting a vivid picture of heartbreak and disillusionment.

Why it's a tearjerker: The song's strength lies in its ability to capture the nuances of betrayal. It's not just about cheating; it's about the subtle ways in which trust can be eroded over time. The lyrics are filled with specific details that make the story feel incredibly real and personal. Rodrigo's vocals are once again stunning, conveying a mix of anger, sadness, and confusion. The bridge, in particular, is a powerful moment of catharsis, as she confronts the pain of being betrayed by someone she loved. This song is perfect for anyone who's ever felt like they were played or taken advantage of in a relationship. It's a raw and honest exploration of the darker side of love.

3. "Someone You Loved" - Lewis Capaldi

Okay, this one might be a bit older than 2021, but it's a timeless sad song that continued to resonate with listeners throughout the year. Lewis Capaldi's "Someone You Loved" is a powerhouse of emotion, with its soaring vocals and heart-wrenching lyrics. The song deals with the pain of loss and the struggle to move on after a relationship ends. It's a classic ballad that's sure to bring a tear to your eye.

Why it's a tearjerker: Capaldi's voice is the star of the show here, conveying a level of vulnerability and raw emotion that's hard to match. The lyrics are simple but effective, focusing on the universal experience of heartbreak and the longing for someone who's no longer there. The music video is also incredibly moving, adding another layer of emotional depth to the song. "Someone You Loved" is a song that you can listen to over and over again, each time finding new meaning in its lyrics and melody. It's a testament to the power of music to connect us in our shared experiences of love and loss.

4. "Happier Than Ever" - Billie Eilish

Don't let the title fool you; this song is a rollercoaster of emotions. "Happier Than Ever" by Billie Eilish starts off as a quiet, introspective ballad before exploding into a cathartic scream-fest. The song is about moving on from a toxic relationship and finding the strength to stand up for yourself. It's a powerful anthem of self-discovery and empowerment.

Why it's a tearjerker: The contrast between the quiet verses and the explosive chorus is what makes this song so impactful. Eilish's whispery vocals in the beginning create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, drawing you into her world. Then, when the chorus hits, it's like a dam breaking, releasing all the pent-up anger and frustration. The lyrics are raw and honest, detailing the struggles of being in a relationship with someone who constantly puts you down. "Happier Than Ever" is a song that will make you want to scream along with Eilish, releasing all your own pent-up emotions. It's a cathartic experience that's both painful and empowering.

5. "Before You Go" - Lewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi makes another appearance on our list with "Before You Go," a deeply personal and emotional song about dealing with the suicide of an aunt. The song explores themes of grief, guilt, and the struggle to understand why someone would take their own life. It's a powerful and moving tribute to a loved one lost too soon.

Why it's a tearjerker: "Before You Go" is a raw and honest exploration of grief, and Capaldi doesn't shy away from the difficult emotions that come with it. The lyrics are incredibly specific and personal, making the song feel like a window into his own experience. Capaldi's vocals are once again stunning, conveying a sense of pain and vulnerability that's hard to ignore. The song is a reminder of the importance of mental health and the need to reach out for help when we're struggling. It's a powerful and moving tribute to a loved one lost too soon, and a reminder of the importance of cherishing the time we have with those we care about.

6. "Ghost of You" - 5 Seconds of Summer

Switching gears a bit, "Ghost of You" by 5 Seconds of Summer is a hauntingly beautiful ballad about the lingering presence of a past love. The song captures the feeling of being haunted by memories and the struggle to move on after a relationship ends. It's a more mature and introspective sound for the band, showcasing their growth as songwriters and musicians.

Why it's a tearjerker: The song's strength lies in its atmospheric production and evocative lyrics. The melody is hauntingly beautiful, creating a sense of longing and nostalgia. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of being haunted by the ghost of a past love, unable to escape the memories and emotions that linger. "Ghost of You" is a song that will stay with you long after you've finished listening, its haunting melody and poignant lyrics echoing in your mind. It's a beautiful and moving exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.

7. "Heather" - Conan Gray

"Heather" by Conan Gray is a bittersweet ballad about unrequited love and the pain of watching someone you care about fall for someone else. The song is told from the perspective of someone who is secretly in love with a person who is already in love with someone else named Heather. It's a relatable and heartbreaking tale of longing and jealousy.

Why it's a tearjerker: The song's strength lies in its honesty and vulnerability. Gray's lyrics capture the raw emotions of unrequited love, the jealousy and longing that come with watching someone you care about fall for someone else. The song is also incredibly relatable, as many people have experienced the pain of unrequited love at some point in their lives. "Heather" is a song that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt like they weren't good enough, or who's ever had to watch someone they love fall for someone else. It's a raw and honest exploration of the pain of unrequited love.

8. "Moral of the Story" - Ashe

"Moral of the Story" by Ashe is a brutally honest and introspective song about the lessons learned from a failed relationship. The song explores themes of heartbreak, regret, and the realization that sometimes things just don't work out the way you planned. It's a song that will resonate with anyone who's ever gone through a tough breakup.

Why it's a tearjerker: The song's strength lies in its honesty and relatability. Ashe's lyrics are incredibly candid, detailing the ups and downs of her relationship and the painful lessons she learned along the way. The song is also surprisingly uplifting, offering a message of hope and resilience in the face of heartbreak. "Moral of the Story" is a song that will make you cry, but it will also make you feel stronger and more empowered. It's a reminder that even in the midst of heartbreak, there's always a lesson to be learned and a chance to grow.

9. "July" - Noah Cyrus ft. Leon Bridges

"July" by Noah Cyrus featuring Leon Bridges is a soulful and melancholic duet about the pain of separation and the longing for a lost love. The song is a slow-burning ballad with haunting vocals and poignant lyrics. It's the kind of song that you want to listen to on a rainy day, wrapped in a blanket with a cup of tea.

Why it's a tearjerker: The combination of Cyrus and Bridges' vocals is what makes this song so special. Their voices blend together seamlessly, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The lyrics are simple but effective, focusing on the universal experience of longing for someone who's no longer there. "July" is a song that will tug at your heartstrings and remind you of the power of love and loss. It's a beautiful and moving duet that will stay with you long after you've finished listening.

10. "afterglow" - Ed Sheeran

Closing out our list is "afterglow" by Ed Sheeran, a tender and heartfelt ballad about the enduring power of love. The song is a stripped-down acoustic track with Sheeran's signature vocals and honest lyrics. It's a song that celebrates the beauty of simple moments and the joy of being in love.

Why it's a tearjerker: While it's not overtly sad, "afterglow" has a bittersweet quality that makes it incredibly moving. The lyrics are about appreciating the small things in life and cherishing the moments you have with the people you love. The song is a reminder that even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, there's always beauty and love to be found. "afterglow" is a song that will make you feel grateful for the people in your life and remind you of the power of love to heal and inspire. It's a beautiful and heartwarming ballad that will leave you feeling hopeful and uplifted.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Our top 10 sad songs of 2021 that you can download as MP3s. Whether you're going through a breakup, dealing with loss, or just in the mood for some emotional tunes, these songs are sure to hit the spot. Remember, it's okay to feel sad sometimes, and music can be a powerful tool for processing our emotions and finding comfort in difficult times. So go ahead, download these songs, grab your headphones, and let the tears flow. You might just feel a little bit better afterward! And remember, music is a universal language that connects us all in our shared experiences of love, loss, and everything in between.