21 Best Songs for the Melancholy Soul ...

By Lezlie

21 Best Songs for the Melancholy Soul ...

I have come across many upbeat lists, but rarely have I seen a list of songs for the melancholy soul. Melancholy is best described as a feeling of pensive sadness, typically with no obvious cause. You could compare it to depression and if you think about it I’m sure you can think of at least one melancholy soul in your life. This list of songs for the melancholy soul are some of my favorite songs. Over the years I’ve added them to my playlist without realizing the connection. Do you find this list of songs for the melancholy soul comforting because you understand what it's like? Or do you find these songs to be a downer?

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1

Creep - Radiohead

This song is a classic. I love listening to it with this scene from "Ils se marièrent et eurent beaucoup d'enfants" aka "And They Lived Happily Ever After", starring Johnny Depp and Charlotte Gainsbourg.

2

Sitting on the Dock of the Bay - Otis Redding

This song used to make me cry as a little girl because I'd imagine this "old man" sitting alone by the water. It's still a classic and still stirs up my emotions.

3

Shadowboxer - Fiona Apple

I used to fall asleep to this entire cd by Fiona Apple when I was in middle school. Needless to say, I learned every single word to every single song. This has always been a melancholy favorite of mine.

4

Le Cafe Bleu - Soha

Have you ever heard a song in a different connection and the words didn't get in the way of connecting with the singer's message? I love this song and I don't even know what she's saying, but I can get a general sense from the feeling of it.

5

Don’t Know Why - Norah Jones

I love Norah Jones, don't you? This was her breakout hit and is still one of my favorite songs by her. There's something about her sweetness and reserved nature that I love.

Famous Quotes

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Peter Elbow
6

Sunday - Sia

This is some old school Sia, before she hit the airwaves singing about chandeliers. She's brilliant and this will always be a favorite of mine.

7

Sadness is a Blessing - Lykke Li

Lykke Li is a genius, that's pretty obvious. I love how this scene is shot, and though the song is incredibly sad I appreciate it. I'm not sure sadness is a blessing though. What do you think?

8

Goodbye Yellow Brick Road - Elton John

Elton's voice is so hauntingly beautiful in this song. I feel like I heard this song hundreds of times as background music before ever really listening to the words.

9

La Vie En Rose - Laura & Anton

Edith Piaf brought this song to life. But I always look for new versions of La Vie En Rose. I love this version.

10

Skinny Love - Birdy

I can relate to Birdy's heart and words, at least I have at times in my life. She's singing from her heart here.

11

The Scientist - Coldplay

Coldplay will always be my favorite band. It's hard to pick one song by them, but generally their songs make me want to run in the street and live life to the fullest. But this song is a bit melancholy and I love it for that reason.

12

House of Dreams - Naomi Pilgrim

Naomi Pilgrim is a bit under the radar, though she is friends with Lykke Li. I love this super dreamy video to go with this lovely song.

13

Anchor - Mindy Gledhill

When I first heard this song I played it on repeat. Then I searched for the video and instantly fell in love with the super creative Mindy Gledhill. I love this song.

14

Love is Blindness - Jack White

Jack White never ceases to amaze me. Though this song has an upbeat beat, you can still hear his pain in his voice.

15

I Will Follow You into the Dark - Death Cab for Cuties

Okay I have to admit, this song is a bit of a downer. But something about it is beautiful. I guess the idea of following a loved one anywhere, even into the scariest places. There have been times in life where I would have agreed, but I like the light now.

16

Carry on - Fun

I can't put my finger on why this song seems melancholy to me, but it made the list. What do you think?

17

Ho Hey - Lumineers

This song has a similar vibe to me as "Carry On".

18

Like a Star - Corrine Bailey Rae

The first time I saw Corrine Bailey Rae I had to know more about her. I wanted to be her friend and loved everything she exuded on screen. She's so lovely and her songs always tell great stories.

19

Clown - Emeli Sande

My friend told me about Emeli Sande for nearly a year before I gave her a serious listen. It's an amazing cd, with a few melancholy songs. This one I love.

20

King of Sorrow - Sade

Queen Sade, there is no one like her. She may be a melancholy Queen as well.

UPD:

Known for her smooth voice that drips with emotion, Sade delivers a bluesy depth in King of Sorrow that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the heavy cloak of sadness. The lyrics weave a tapestry of pain and reflection, matched impeccably by the sultry tones only she can produce. Watch the music video, absorbed by the narrative of struggle and the internal fight for peace amidst life's relentless challenges. Her unique brand of soul-infused music offers a comforting embrace to the melancholic heart, making this song a timeless companion for moments of introspection.

21

It Ain’t over Till It’s over - Lenny Kravitz

This song is for the lovers, on and offers, and those keeping hope alive in regards to love. It can be a rocky ride, but listen to Lenny's words!

Would you add any songs to this list? I’d love to know.

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

Listening to sad music is actually proven to make us feel better -- it's called emotional release; it provides a safe and sympathetic outlet for negative emotions

Love Ho Hey and I Will Follow You Into the Dark!!!

Skinny Love!!! I also love Words as Weapons by her.

I also suggest Mumford & Sons and Laura Marling for the "melancholy soul" :)

Love all these songs! Amazing! Thanks!

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