There”s something uniquely cathartic about sad music. When times get hard, melancholic melodies are there for you. When life is going great, sad songs provide an opportunity to appreciate that good fortune. This applies to relationships too. Whether you”re long-term and committed, in an open relationship or single, sometimes a good anti-love song is just what you need.
“Love Yourself” – Justin Bieber
Even if you”re still fuming with residual teenybopper hatred for Justin Bieber, this is one song that shouldn”t be dismissed because of its artist”s track record. The song, which was penned by English musician Ed Sheeran, explores the process and frustrations of trying to move on from a past love. It”s catchy, soothing and relatable on every level.
“Don”t” – Ed Sheeran
Speaking of Ed Sheeran, the well-known artist turns his own broken love story into a fast-paced hit single. The song was written about Sheeran”s singer-songwriter ex-girlfriend, Ellie Goulding. While certain parts of the situation, like the lovers both being famous musicians, aren”t relatable, Sheeran captures the highs and lows of loving someone and what abrupt heart break feels like with a more up-beat tune.
Corrin Bond
“Winter in My Heart” – The Avett Brothers
With lilting vocals and longing lyrics, this folk rock band from North Carolina knows how to deliver the perfect melancholic melody. The Avett Brothers turn Romantic conventions on their head by denouncing the blooming beauty of warmer seasons, explaining that not even the fair weather or flowers of spring can alleviate a broken heart.
“When I was Your Man” – Bruno Mars
While this might seem like just another song where some soulful singer is crooning about a lost love, Bruno Mars spends less time wallowing and more time apologizing. Through his delicate melody and catchy lyrics, the eclectic performer expresses the feelings of regret that can result from a relationship gone wrong.
“Good Life” – Francis Dunnery
Through a soft melody and touching lyrics, this English musician takes a less conventional anti-love song approach. Instead of coming out of a relationship with anger or resentment, Francis Dunnery sings about wanting the best for a former love. The song also revolves around a painful truth – that sometimes, regardless of how great both individuals are, relationships just don”t work out.
Corrin Bond can be reached at [email protected] or on twitter @CorrBond