1. 'Let Her Go' by Passenger
This guitar-dominated medley about lost love dominated mainstream radio in 2014. Though the protagonist of the song is expressing his regret for giving up the woman he loved, the soothing arrangement consisting of guitar and violin combined with Passenger's soothing, gravelly voice make the song very comforting to listen to.
Well, you only need the light
When it's burning low
Only miss the sun
When it starts to snow
Only know you love her
When you let her go
2. 'Mandolin Rain' by Bruce Hornsby and the Range
One of Bruce Hornsby's few songs to gain mainstream attention, released in 1986. Hornsby is a grossly underrated talent, with a knack for catchy, elaborate arrangements, and stellar piano skills, both of which he shows off on 'Mandolin Rain,' a quintessential display of his brilliance as a musician. Admiration of such qualities lightens the depressing tone of this song, on which Hornsby reminisces about a former lover, and expresses sadness and nostalgia over the fact that she's gone. The descriptive songwriting is another plus, as Hornsby's description of his fond memories with his lover paints a vivid picture in our minds.
Listen to the mandolin rain
Listen to the music on the lake
Oh, listen to my heart break
Every time she runs away
Oh, listen to the banjo wind
A sad song drifting low
Listen to the tears roll
Down my face as she turns to go
3. 'The Tracks of My Tears' by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles
A Motown classic, released in 1965 at the height of Motown's success, this song appears to have an upbeat tone, but a closer listen at the lyrics reveals that Smokey Robinson is expressing his longing to be with the only woman who he will ever truly love, and his heartbreak over not being with her. Despite that, Robinson's crooning is a delight for the ear, making this tune irresistible.
So take a good look at my face
You'll see my smile looks out of place
If you look closer
It's easy to trace
The tracks of my tears
4. 'You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling' by the Righteous Brothers
Another oldie from the 1960s, this time about a present relationship, the protagonist laments the lost spark in his relationship with his lover. The brothers' crooning makes this a treat to listen to, and as the desperation of the song becomes more intense, the song gradually builds momentum in the bridge, and the resulting climax is quite satisfactorily delightful. I often find myself listening to this one on repeat, and it brightens my mood.
You've lost that lovin' feelin'
Whoa, that lovin' feelin'
You've lost that lovin' feelin'
Now it's gone...gone...gone...woah
