Best Songs for Goodbye: 50 Picks

Saying goodbye is one of the hardest things we are asked to do, but it is a moment which numerous songs so poignantly captured. We have compiled 50 brilliant tracks which make saying goodbye a bit less hard — or at least which make you think you are not alone in how you feel.

Here is a decades- and genres-spanning list from classic rock and soul ballads all the way to country tearjerkers and current pop singles. You’ll find chart-toppers next to fan favorites diamonds in the rough, both with a note about why it’s an awesome farewell song.

Whether you are saying goodbye to a friend, ending a love affair, graduating, or closing a book on life in any other manner, there are full-bodied emotions in these ballads. There are those which you will cry over, some which you’ll chuckle at, and some which might even provide you with the backbone for a hearty “see you later.” Here are 50 of the best goodbye songs for all types of goodbyes.

I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston

For a goodbye love song, Whitney’s great 1992 ballad is generally first in mind. Written in 1973 by Dolly Parton, it was given a second lease on life when Whitney sang it in 1992 film The Bodyguard. That song totally dominated worldwide charts (14 weeks at #1 in US) and best summarizes the pain and hopes in saying goodbye to a person while you vow you’ll love them for the rest of their life.

See You Again by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth

For 2015, this heartfelt hip-hop/ pop collaboration became a farewell anthem for a generation. Employed in Furious 7 in a tribute musical dedication for actor Paul Walker, “See You Again” pairs Wiz Khalifa’s emotional rap lyrics with a heartfelt chorus by singer-songwriter Charlie Puth. At number one on Billboard Hot 100 for 12 straight weeks, it touched a chord in anyone whose lost a friend and wishes one day again to catch up with him or her.

Goodbye Yellow Brick Road by Elton John

Elton John’s 1973 classic is a wonderful ballad in which he bids farewell to stardom’s glittery lifestyle. As a title track for a Gold album, it uses a Wizard of Oz comparison for closing an illusion in lieu of reality. Elton’s sweeping composition and passionate vocals treated it as a Top 10 single as well as an iconic farewell anthem for those preferring a quiet life over a life of fame.

Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) by Green Day

This 1997 acoustic song by Green Day is a standard at graduations and farewell parties. Ironically titled but sincere in its intent, “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” is a bitter-sweet send-off for those listening (“I hope you had the time of your life’) as something is concluded and something else is about to begin.

It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday by Boyz II Men

Since 1991, Boyz II Men’s a cappella rendition of this ’70s film classic captures so perfectly how difficult it is to say goodbye. Its heartfelt harmonies and loving lyrics made it a Top 5 graduations and memorial service song favorite. Its name says it all: sometimes goodbye hurts, but tenderly it reminds us not to forget what we had.

Candle in the Wind by Elton John

Originally written in 1973 as a tribute to Marilyn Monroe, Elton John’s “Candle in the Wind” compares a beloved’s life with a candle burned too quickly. Elton famously rerecorded it in 1997 in tribute to Princess Diana, and it became an all-time greatest-seller. Its lovely melancholy tune and lyrics make it an iconic song about waving goodbye to an idol.

Leaving on a Jet Plane by Peter, Paul and Mary

Written by John Denver and performed by folk act Peter, Paul and Mary, this beautiful ballad in 1969 reached #1. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” embodies perfectly the ache of leaving a loved one behind, blending regret with promise of return. Even decades later, it is a classic ballad for goodbye for anyone setting out on a journey.

Never Can Say Goodbye by The Jackson 5

This 1971 Motown single by the Jackson 5 proves a bitter-sweet farewell even gets released on a buoyant note. Teenager Michael’s passionate singing fulfills the severity of not wanting to let go, though the song is no doubt a hook. A Top 5 pop single later a disco classic, it had endurance as a song about people who hate to give up.

Goodbye by Spice Girls

With this 1998 ballad came a last goodbye for a period in Spice Girl history. Released when Geri Halliwell left, “Goodbye” served not only as a goodbye in her honor but also as a thank you to everyone. Its emotional lyrics and uplifting harmonies reached for everyone’s heart worldwide, peaking at a #1 in the UK. Even a spry pop group shared a melancholic goodbye song appropriate for any age listener.

End of the Road by Boyz II Men

Since 1992, this ballad by Boyz II Men boasts lush harmonies which express the pain of a love ending. It spent a record 13 weeks at #1 on Billboard Hot 100 and served background music for countless breakup scenes. Even decades later, its soulful chorus (“.end of road’) continues to tug at one’s heartstrings and is a classic song about saying goodbye to love.

Seasons in the Sun by Terry Jacks

1974 Hit Based on a French Melody, “Seasons in the Sun” is a song of musical farewell note. Sung in a male voice by Terry Jacks as he is saying goodbye to friends and families while remembering happy times shared with them. Its mellifluous melody and bitter-sweet lyrics transformed it into an international number-one song which continues to make people emotional but thankful for times shared.

Bye Bye Bye by *NSYNC

Certain goodbyes are a force for empowerment – as *NSYNC served up with this 2000 anthem song. “Bye Bye Bye” is a sassy breakup song about a bad affair with a killer hook. It was a global hit for the boy band. With its catchy “bye bye bye” hook, it still offers a great send-off for anyone in need of a confidence boost.

I Will Remember You by Sarah McLachlan

This 1995 ballad is a beautiful homage to keeping alive recollections of a loved one who’s gone on ahead. “I Will Remember You” gained fame for its live renditions and TV departures. McLachlan’s soft, emotive voice is a promise that even if you wave goodbye, you’ll still hold a piece of that person in you.

Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton

Written in the grip of a terrible loss in his young son, Eric Clapton’s 1992 song remains one of all-time saddest goodbye tracks. “Tears in Heaven” is Clapton in a state of confusion about whether he will recognize his loved one in the great hereafter, conveying raw emotions in a few simple realities. Gentle melody and sentiment swept around the world as it aided many people in dealing with life’s hardest goodbye.

Farewell by Rihanna

Even pop stars are permitted tough goodbyes. Here in this 2011 ballad anthem, Rihanna is singing to a loved one about leaving for a dream. She is encouraging him even though her heart aches while she sings about missing him. “Farewell” shows you it is an act of love itself to release his grip on you — a bitter-sweet goodbye fraught with promise for tomorrow.

On the Road Again by Willie Nelson

Not all goodbyes are sad. Willie Nelson’s classic song “On the Road Again” (1980) is a joyous farewell celebrating life on tour and thrill of adventures yet unseen. Its driving rhythm and Nelson’s signature twangy voice make it an uplifting leaving-home experience. It is this carefree farewell saying “see you later” with a grin.

How Can I Help You Say Goodbye by Patty Loveless

This 1993 ballad is a sensitive rendering of life’s harsh goodbyes. Patty Loveless sings of a young girl gone, a wife or girlfriend in a divorce breakup, a daughter bid farewell by her mother — all initiated by asking “how do I help you say goodbye?” Its easy melody combined with compassionate lyrics made it a country classic for comforting whoever is in a hurtful farewell.

50 Ways to Leave Your Lover by Paul Simon

Break-ups don’t always have to sadden. Paul Simon’s comedic 1975 song “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” provides sassy one-liners about how you might end a relationship (“slip out the back, Jack”). Its memorable chorus and comical rhymes made it a first solo #1 single for Simon. Its playful take on leaving someone behind reveals even a hard goodbye might have a lighter heart.

Hit the Road Jack by Ray Charles

Ray Charles made it to #1 in 1961 with this breezy R&B song which basically boots an unwanted lover out the door. Driven by call-and-respond singing and catchy piano riffing, “Hit the Road Jack” is a giddy version of saying “goodbye and riddance.” That phrase itself became a catchphrase throughout pop culture, a testament to just how timeless this casual goodbye song still is.

Goodbye My Lover by James Blunt

James Blunt’s 2005 piano ballad is like a diary extract of sorrow. Blunt unleashes raw emotions in a breakup in his song “Goodbye My Lover,” his voice shaking with misery. Intimate production alongside no-holds-barred lyrics makes it easy for anyone saying goodbye to something valuable to grab onto in a big way. It wasn’t a massive chart-stopper, but its fragility and poetiness made it an international anthem for broken-hearted individuals.

Too Good at Goodbyes by Sam Smith

Sam Smith’s soaring vocals are at their best in this 2017 anthem born of his own painful life. “Too Good at Goodbyes” chronicles how heartbreak caused him to guard his heart (“never gonna let you close to me”). The song rocketed to #1 in the UK and its catch-as-catch-can chorus appeared to tap a universal vein. It’s an anthem for anyone wounded one too many times and gets ready for next goodbye.

Before You Go by Lewis Capaldi

Perhaps his most intimate ballad is 2019’s “Before You Go” by Lewis Capaldi. Written in the aftermath his aunt’s suicide, the song wrestles with guilt and second-guessing over whether or not he would have been able to make a difference. Through his bare-faced honesty and soaring tenor, it went to #1 in the UK. It’s a guilt-ridden goodbye we can all relate to in our thoughts over a loss.

Never Say Goodbye by Bon Jovi

Though not released as a US single, this 1987 power ballad is a nostalgic celebration of first loves and enduring friendships. Despite not receiving a US single release, “Never Say Goodbye” was a slow dance anthem amongst fans. With passionate vocals and a lyric about holding close those special moments in mind, it retains the sentiment that though life moves forward, true friends in the end never say goodbye.

Goodbye My Friend by Linda Ronstadt

Linda Ronstadt’s clean voice gives this 1989 track a comforting quality. Karla Bonoff’s song “Goodbye My Friend” addresses saying goodbye to a cherished buddy. Instead of mere sadness, its lyrics take pride in celebrating a buddy’s life and in love remaining. She sings it with sincerity and poise. It wasn’t a mass-market chart smash but is cherished dearly for its uplifting truth that friendship and love remain even when we bid farewell.

(Na Na Hey Hey) Kiss Him Goodbye by Steam

Though you might not recognize the name in the head above water state, its “na na na, hey hey, goodbye” hook you definitely will. Back in 1969, one-hit wonders Steam brought this cheeky kiss-off all the way to #1. Originally a song for saying you’re finished with an ex, it later was a sporting stadium anthem for rubbing it in on the losing team. Decades later, it still is the ultimate easy goodbye everybody’s familiar with.

Careless Whisper by George Michael

With its memorable sax riff and mellow production, “Careless Whisper” is an ’80s classic farewell ballad. George Michael put it out in 1984 and watched it reach #1 worldwide. It doesn’t once use the word “goodbye,” but in its eulogy for adultery and regret (“I’m never gonna dance again”), it is an end-of-affair song. Luscious, melancholy song that it is, it is a classic for those wallowing in breakup guilt.

If You Leave Me Now by Chicago

Chicago’s 1976 soft-rock ballad “If You Leave Me Now” was their first #1 song and took a Grammy too. With soulful leads by Peter Cetera, it’s an anguished serenade asking a lover not to depart (“you’ll take away the biggest part of me”). Its lush string and horn sections give it a golden glow still melting hearts today.

Goodbye Stranger by Supertramp

Supertramp’s 1979 single puts a sprightly spin on goodbye. “Goodbye Stranger” sounds like a man had a innocent fling but it’s his turn to migrate. Upbeat keys and sunny harmonies make it an airy song despite its goodbye mood. It reached the US Top 20 and is distinctive in delivering a goodbye so remarkably effervescent.

Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) by Journey

Journey’s 1983 hard-rock ballad embodies a breakup’s suffering in throbbing guitars and synths. On “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” Steve Perry wails about two loves pushed on different paths even though he wishes it wasn’t so. It was a Top 10 single, and its addictive beat and passionate chorus give energy in a broken heart – a great push for dragging oneself through a tough goodbye.

Fade to Black by Metallica

Then in 1984 there was a surprise for fans in a form of eerie ballad titled “Fade To Black” depicting hopelessness and suicide. Composed in first-person form for an individual about to say goodbye to life, it began softly with an acoustic prelude before evolving into an angry electric guitar. Dark as it is, “Fade To Black” was one of the best metal compositions about dealing with death.

I’m Movin’ On by Rascal Flatts

This 2001 Rascal Flatts country song has inspired hundreds of thousands with dramatic life changes. “I’m Movin’ On” is a song about saying goodbye to the past — mistakes and regrets — and finding a certain level of courage in order to start anew. It won ACM Song of the Year. It’s not a goodbye to a person, but a goodbye to a life episode, with an optimistic outlook about what is next.

Somebody That I Used to Know by Gotye (feat. Kimbra)

This idiosyncratic 2011 indie-pop anthem by Gotye (feat. Kimbra) transcended borders in a completely unexpected way. “Somebody That I Used to Know” depicts a bitter breakup in both directions — Gotye first laments feeling disconnected, then Kimbra gets her moment. Its uncomplicated xylophone hook and naked lyrics struck a chord, reaching #1 in countless countries. It’s a modern-day lesson in how the other you you wave goodbye to becomes a stranger.

Don’t Speak by No Doubt

No Doubt’s 1996 breakout song “Don’t Speak” is a result of real heartbreak. Stefani wrote it about her breakup with bandmate Tony Kanal when both know it’s over but saying it aloud hurts. Her emotive vocals and song’s swell from quiet start to hard-rocking finish made it a ’90s anthem. “Don’t Speak” remains an accurate portrayal of the silence and tears when it’s over between you and somebody you loved.

The Long and Winding Road by The Beatles

Released in 1970 as The Beatles were breaking up, “The Long and Winding Road is” generally thought of as their mellow farewell. Paul McCartney’s wearied, reflective vocals set over a rich orchestra make it a thoughtful song. Most hear lyrics about a road leading back home as a symbolic statement of-lasting friendship or desire. It was a #1 single in the U.S., a sentimental goodbye from the Fab Four.

Time to Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman

Otherwise known as “Con Te Partirò,” it is this duet between Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman which soared into a global phenomenon in the late ’90s. With their operatic voices and soaring anthem-like melody, “Time to Say Goodbye” gives leaving a heroic quality. Originally written for a boxer’s final bout in 1996, it went number one in European charts and remains a strong modern farewell song.

We’ll Meet Again by Vera Lynn

Wartime farewell song in this 1939 classic World War II film. Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again” reassured the soldiers and girlfriends that one day or another, somehow or other, we’ll meet again. Its golden oldie tune even now gets a catch in the throat. Its inspirational message transcends decades — a standard in movies and events whenever a nostalgic reassuring farewell is in order.

Bye Bye Love by The Everly Brothers

This 1957 rock ’n’ roll standard by The Everly Brothers demonstrates even heartbreak can come in a happy tempo. “Bye Bye Love” is a song about a rejected lover waving goodbye while his girl is going out with a stranger. Yet such a song is a happy one thanks to strumming guitars and close harmonies which had everyone dancing in their seats. Contrast made it a colossal success as a standard in making breakup blues a sing-along song.

One More Day by Diamond Rio

This 2001 ballad recalls spending just one additional day with a departed loved one. Diamond Rio’s singing is all about tiny things they would accomplish if afforded a wee bit more time – no heroic act, just presence. “One More Day” spent a week at number one on the country chart and reassured numerous grieving listeners. Its premise is simple: a wee bit more time with someone you love would make all the difference.

My Way by Frank Sinatra

Sinatra’s 1969 signature tune is an absolute swan song. Reviewing his life proudly though nostalgically in “My Way,” Ol’ Blue Eyes proclaimed he had done it his way. From a French tune set to English lyrics by Paul Anka, it is now a universal anthem for last farewells. Once played in retirement celebrations as much as in funeral rites, it is now ideally synonymous with a gracious final goodbye.

I’ll Be Missing You by Puff Daddy & Faith Evans

Puff Daddy (Diddy) and Faith Evans came together in 1997 when they released “I’ll Be Missing You” in honor of late Notorious B.I.G. Employing a sample in their track derived from The Police’s “Every Breath You Take,” their tribute became a number-one-charting song around the world. Faith’s tearful chorus and Puffy’s rhymes speak of pain and love for a pre-maturally lost buddy. A eulogy and a celebratory anthem in this song is an effective farewell anthem for those it’s aided in coping with loss.

Graduation (Friends Forever) by Vitamin C

In 2000, pop singer Vitamin C put out a modern grad anthem. “Graduation (Friends Forever)” is a yearbook album: its sentimental lyrics talk about retaining school days and staying in touch. It wasn’t a behemoth Top 40 hit, but it made its way onto countless proms and graduations. Its bitter-sweet yearning married with optimism encapsulates so perfectly that ephemeral moment when friends leave for greener fields.

Goodbyes by Post Malone (feat. Young Thug)

2019 breakup anthem “Goodbyes” by Post Malone is evidence that breakups are a winner. Sung over an atmospheric rhythm track, Malone ruminates about ending a toxic relationship (“there’s no way I can save you, ’cause I need to be saved too”). Its hip-hop-pop fusion with a verse from Young Thug boosted it into the top 10. Its chorus-friendly vibe made “Goodbyes” a anthem for anyone ending the drama happily.

Someone Like You by Adele

Adele’s ballad from 2011 “Someone Like You” brought the whole world to tears and topped charts globally. Minimally accompanied by a piano, Adele bid a stately farewell to her past lover while wishing him all the best even when she hurts inside. Her naked, soaring voice makes the pain palpable. Such direct, emotional candor about freeing first love found a universal appeal in rendering a breakup anthem for a generation.

Don’t You (Forget About Me) by Simple Minds

Indelibly linked with the ending credits of The Breakfast Club, Simple Minds 1985 anthem “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” was a song of optimistic departures. Its iconic “la-la-la” refrain and the scene of an iconic raised fist etched the sentiment of friends saying their goodbyes but promising not to forget one another. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” reached #1 in the US and is still a classic reminder that even when we are saying goodbye, it is a cherished wish not to stay apart for good.

Irreplaceable by Beyoncé

2006 anthem “Irreplaceable” by Beyoncé converted a breakup into an act of empowerment. Backed by a sassy R&B rhythm track, the song includes her schooling a cheating man on how to exit — stat. It spent weeks at #1 and had everyone around the world singing its sassy lyrics. The lesson is a simple one: sometimes a great exit is ending up realizing your worth and leaving it behind.

Take This Job and Shove It by Johnny Paycheck

Tired of work? That’s what this 1977 country classic is all about. “Take This Job and Shove It” by Johnny Paycheck tells about a guy who’s had it with his rough boss and gets up and leaves. Its sassy chorus made it a catchphrase and even a film. To anyone who’s ever dreamed about making a dramatic exit at a job, this is the ultimate kiss-off song.

Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan’s 1973 song “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” is a gentle farewell anthem. Written for a scene in a film in which a terminally ill lawman is portrayed by Jason Robards, minimal lyrics (“Mama, take this badge off of me…”) convey a peaceful nod in the direction of death. Released in a gentle acoustic guitar arrangement with a hymn-like chorus in its mellowness, it conjures a peaceful end-of-day mood. It is commonly sung at life’s end as a bolster for loved ones lost.

Bye Bye by Mariah Carey

In 2008, Mariah Carey walked away from ballads for romances in exchange for ballads for mourning losses. “Bye Bye” is a mid-tempo R&B ballad for anyone who’s ever had a lost loved one. Mariah’s emotive vocals and sentimental lyrics make it simple to think their gone loved ones are not forgotten. It wasn’t a number-one single for her, but its generic nature is a reassurance; even saying “bye” stings a little less.

To Sir With Love by Lulu

Lulu’s 1967 hit “To Sir With Love” is a grateful note set to music, sung by students to their lovable teacher at their end-of-term send-off. Its earnest thanks (“you taught me right from wrong”) and easy melody was a knockout combination which made it reach #1 in the U.S. Even today it remains one of the nicest songs to sing in saying goodbye to a guide.

Everytime You Go Away by Paul Young

Paul Young’s soulful cover version recording of Hall & Oates’ take on “Everytime You Go Away” went to #1 in 1985 and became an ’80s classic. These are the hurts of distance: whenever his beloved goes away, it’s as if a piece of him goes too. His velvety, emotive interpretation made it a classic ballad which so eloquently captures how even a moment’s goodbye tug at the heartstrings.