20 Songs About Loneliness And Being Alone

Loneliness is a feeling that many of us have experienced at some point in our lives, and for me, it’s been a familiar companion. The quiet moments when the world seems to fade away, leaving just you and your thoughts, can be both comforting and isolating. Music has always been my refuge during these times, offering solace and understanding when words fail. 

In this playlist, I want to share 20 songs that have resonated with me deeply, capturing the essence of loneliness and the complex emotions that come with being alone. Each track is a reminder that while we may feel isolated, we are never truly alone in our experiences.

1. “Lonely” by Akon

“Lonely” is a poignant song by Akon that delves into the themes of regret and isolation following a breakup. The song prominently samples Bobby Vinton’s 1964 hit “Mr. Lonely,” giving it a nostalgic yet modern feel. Akon narrates the story of a man who realizes too late the value of his partner. Throughout the song, he reflects on his mistakes and the pain he caused, expressing a deep sense of sorrow and longing for reconciliation. The chorus, with its repetitive and haunting refrain of “I’m Mr. Lonely,” underscores the profound emptiness he feels without his significant other. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one in several countries and becoming a defining track in Akon’s career.

2. “Should’ve Been Us” by Tori Kelly

Tori Kelly’s “Should’ve Been Us” from her debut album Unbreakable Smile captures the lingering feelings of loneliness and regret following a breakup. The song describes the singer’s emotional turmoil and the sense of loss she feels despite being surrounded by people. Kelly reflects on what could have been, imagining a perfect relationship that never came to fruition. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and the painful realization that the relationship had potential but ultimately failed. This track resonates with anyone who has experienced the heartache of a relationship that ended too soon.

3. “Only The Lonely” by Roy Orbison

Roy Orbison’s “Only The Lonely” is a classic ballad that explores the deep sense of isolation felt by those who have experienced heartbreak. The song’s melancholic melody and Orbison’s emotive vocals convey the pain of losing a loved one. The lyrics express the idea that only those who have endured similar heartache can truly understand the depth of his loneliness. Orbison sings about the nights spent crying and the overwhelming sense of sadness that accompanies a broken heart. This timeless track has resonated with listeners for decades, capturing the universal experience of loneliness after a loss.

4. “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton

Vanessa Carlton’s “A Thousand Miles” is an iconic song that speaks to the longing and loneliness felt when separated from a loved one. The song’s memorable piano riff and heartfelt lyrics describe the singer’s deep desire to be reunited with someone who is far away. Carlton sings about how everything around her reminds her of the person she misses, and she imagines traveling any distance to be with them again. The song captures the essence of yearning and the emotional strain of being apart from someone important. Despite its upbeat tempo, the underlying theme of loneliness is palpable throughout the track.

5. “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” by Green Day

“Boulevard of Broken Dreams” is one of Green Day’s most iconic songs, featured on their 2004 album American Idiot. The song captures the essence of loneliness and isolation through its lyrics and haunting melody. Lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong sings about walking a solitary path, symbolized by the “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” where he feels completely alone despite being in a bustling city. The lyrics “I walk a lonely road, the only one that I have ever known” and “Sometimes I wish someone out there will find me” poignantly express the deep sense of estrangement and yearning for companionship. The song’s melancholic tone is reinforced by its minor key and the use of a repetitive, haunting guitar riff.

6. “The Lonely” by Christina Perri

“The Lonely” by Christina Perri is a deeply emotional ballad that delves into the singer’s personal relationship with loneliness. Perri describes the song as her “love affair with loneliness,” capturing the quiet, painful, and often overwhelming nature of feeling alone. The lyrics convey a sense of resignation and acceptance of loneliness as a constant companion. Perri’s haunting vocals and the minimalist piano accompaniment emphasize the raw emotion and vulnerability expressed in the song. Lines like “Dancing slowly in an empty room, can the lonely take the place of you?” highlight the struggle of finding solace in solitude when longing for someone who is no longer there.

7. “Lonely” by Justin Bieber Ft. benny blanco

“Lonely” by Justin Bieber, featuring benny blanco, is a candid exploration of the singer’s experiences with fame and the isolation that often accompanies it. The song’s lyrics reveal Bieber’s feelings of vulnerability and the emotional toll of being in the public eye from a young age. He reflects on the loneliness he felt despite his success, singing, “What if you had it all but nobody to call? Maybe then you’d know me.” The stripped-down production, featuring piano and subtle instrumentation, allows Bieber’s raw and emotional vocals to take center stage, effectively conveying the depth of his loneliness and longing for understanding.

8. “All By Myself” by Eric Carmen

“All By Myself” is a classic ballad by Eric Carmen that has become an anthem for those experiencing loneliness. Released in 1975, the song is known for its powerful, emotive delivery and orchestral arrangement. Carmen’s lyrics express the deep sense of isolation and heartache that comes from being alone, particularly after a romantic relationship has ended. The chorus, with its soaring melody and poignant repetition of “All by myself, don’t wanna be all by myself anymore,” captures the universal feeling of longing for companionship and the pain of solitude. The song’s dramatic arrangement, featuring a prominent piano and sweeping strings, enhances the emotional impact of Carmen’s heartfelt performance.

9. “Lonely Boy” by The Black Keys

“Lonely Boy” is a gritty rock anthem that explores the themes of unrequited love and emotional perseverance. Released in 2011, it became one of The Black Keys’ most popular tracks. The song’s driving guitar riffs and energetic beat contrast with its melancholic lyrics, creating a powerful emotional impact.

The lyrics depict a narrator who is deeply in love with someone who doesn’t reciprocate those feelings. Lines like “Well, I’m so above you, and it’s plain to see, but I came to love you anyway” and “So you tore my heart out, and I don’t mind bleeding” illustrate the speaker’s willingness to endure emotional pain for the sake of love. The repetitive chorus, “Oh, oh-oh, I got a love that keeps me waiting,” encapsulates the frustration and loneliness of unrequited affection.

The song also touches on themes of abandonment and generational trauma, adding depth to the narrative of loneliness. Overall, “Lonely Boy” resonates with listeners who have experienced the isolation and pain of loving someone who doesn’t love them back.

10. “Scared To Be Lonely” by Martin Garrix and Dua Lipa

This collaboration between DJ Martin Garrix and pop star Dua Lipa is a dance-pop track that delves into the fear of being alone and its impact on relationships. Released in 2017, the song combines Garrix’s electronic production with Lipa’s emotive vocals.

The lyrics explore the concept of staying in a relationship out of fear of loneliness rather than genuine love. Lines like “Is it just our bodies? Are we both losing our minds?” question the authenticity of the connection between the two people in the song. The chorus, “Is it just our bodies? Are we both losing our minds? Is the only reason you’re holding me tonight ’cause we’re scared to be lonely?” directly addresses the central theme of the fear of solitude.

The song resonates with listeners who have experienced the struggle between genuine connection and the desire to avoid being alone. Its combination of catchy beats and introspective lyrics made it a commercial success and a poignant exploration of modern relationships.

11. “To Be So Lonely” by Harry Styles

From his 2019 album “Fine Line,” “To Be So Lonely” is a introspective track that examines the aftermath of a breakup and the complexities of personal growth. The song blends pop, rock, and folk influences, showcasing Styles’ eclectic musical style.

The lyrics present a narrator who is grappling with the end of a relationship and his own role in its demise. Lines like “Don’t blame me for falling / I was just a little boy” suggest a plea for understanding, while the repeated phrase “arrogant son of a bitch” indicates a harsh self-awareness. The chorus, “Don’t call me baby again, it’s hard for me to go home / Be so lonely,” captures the emotional turmoil and isolation felt after a breakup.

The song explores themes of regret, self-reflection, and the struggle to move on. It resonates with listeners who have experienced the loneliness that comes with personal growth and the end of a significant relationship.

12. “Alone Again” by The Weeknd

“Alone Again” is the opening track from The Weeknd’s 2020 album “After Hours.” Known for his dark, introspective style, The Weeknd delivers a haunting exploration of isolation and self-destruction in this song.

The lyrics describe a narrator who is in Las Vegas, seemingly to escape his loneliness, but finding himself more isolated than ever. Lines like “I’m living someone else’s life, suppressing who I was inside” suggest a loss of identity and a struggle with authenticity. The repeated plea “Hey, hey, hey / Mr. Lonely” emphasizes the overwhelming sense of solitude.

The song touches on themes of substance abuse, emotional numbness, and the desperate search for connection. It resonates with listeners who have experienced profound loneliness and the struggle to find oneself in the midst of isolation.

13. “Right Where You Left Me” by Taylor Swift

“Right Where You Left Me” is a bonus track from Taylor Swift’s 2020 album evermore. The song vividly captures the feeling of being emotionally stuck in the moment of heartbreak. Swift uses evocative imagery to describe a woman who remains frozen in time at the place where her lover left her. The lyrics, “Friends break up, friends get married / Strangers get born, strangers get buried / Trends change, rumors fly through new skies / But I’m right where you left me,” emphasize the protagonist’s inability to move on while the world continues around her. The song’s melancholic tone and Swift’s emotive delivery make it a powerful exploration of the enduring impact of lost love.

14. “A Solitary Man” by Johnny Cash

“A Solitary Man” is a poignant song by Johnny Cash that delves into the singer’s feelings of loneliness and his inability to maintain lasting relationships. The song narrates the story of a man who has been betrayed by past lovers and has decided to remain solitary until he finds someone who won’t break his heart. The lyrics, “I’ll be what I am / A solitary man,” convey a sense of resignation and melancholy, highlighting the emotional toll of repeated heartbreak. Cash’s deep, resonant voice adds a layer of depth to the song, making it a touching reflection on loneliness and the search for genuine companionship.

15. “Wake Up Alone” by The Chainsmokers and Jhene Aiko

“Wake Up Alone” is a collaboration between The Chainsmokers and Jhene Aiko that explores the emptiness that can accompany fame and material success when genuine love is absent. The song’s lyrics describe a person who has everything they could want—money, fame, and material possessions—but still feels a profound sense of loneliness. The chorus, “Will you still care in the morning? / When the magic’s gone, gone, oh,” captures the fear of being abandoned once the superficial aspects of life fade away. Aiko’s soulful vocals and The Chainsmokers’ atmospheric production create a hauntingly beautiful track that resonates with anyone who has felt the void of loneliness despite external success.

16. “Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely” by The Backstreet Boys

“Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely” is a heartfelt ballad by The Backstreet Boys that delves into the pain and emptiness of losing a loved one. Released in 1999, the song features poignant lyrics and a melancholic melody that convey a deep sense of sorrow. The chorus, “Show me the meaning of being lonely / Is this the feeling I need to walk with?” expresses the struggle to understand and cope with the overwhelming emotions of loneliness and grief. The song’s emotive delivery and powerful harmonies make it a timeless anthem for those grappling with the loss and the search for meaning in their solitude.

17. “Lonely Is The Night” by Air Supply

“Lonely Is The Night” is a poignant ballad by Air Supply, released in 1986 as the lead single from their album Hearts in Motion. The song, written by Albert Hammond and Diane Warren, delves into the emotional struggles of a long-distance relationship. The lyrics express the narrator’s realization that life without their partner is unbearably lonely. Lines like “Lonely is the night when I’m not with you, lonely is the night ain’t no light shining through” capture the profound sense of emptiness and longing experienced when separated from a loved one. The song’s soft rock melody and heartfelt delivery make it a touching exploration of the pain and challenges of being apart from someone you love.

18. “Supalonely” by BENEE Ft. Gus Dapperton

“Supalonely” by BENEE featuring Gus Dapperton is a bittersweet anthem that juxtaposes upbeat music with melancholic lyrics. Released in 2020, the song explores feelings of loneliness and self-deprecation following a breakup. BENEE’s lyrics, such as “I know I fucked up, I’m just a loser,” convey a sense of regret and self-blame. The song also touches on themes of escapism and the struggle to cope with emotions, as illustrated by lines like “Now I’m in the bathtub, cryin’.” Despite its somber themes, “Supalonely” has an element of empowerment, embracing loneliness with a catchy chorus and danceable beat, making it a relatable track for anyone who has felt left behind in a relationship.

19. “Lonely Together” by Avicii Ft. Rita Ora

“Lonely Together” is a collaboration between Avicii and Rita Ora, released in 2017. The song combines Avicii’s signature electronic production with Ora’s powerful vocals to explore the theme of seeking temporary solace in companionship to escape loneliness. The lyrics describe two people who come together to avoid being alone, even if their connection is fleeting. The chorus, “Let’s be lonely together, a little less lonely together,” highlights the desire for human connection, even if it’s just for a short while. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious melody contrast with its underlying message of transient relationships and the quest to alleviate loneliness through shared moments.

20. “Driver’s License” by Olivia Rodrigo

“Driver’s License” by Olivia Rodrigo is a deeply emotional song that captures the heartache and loneliness following a breakup. Released in 2021, the song narrates Rodrigo’s experience of getting her driver’s license, a milestone she had looked forward to sharing with her ex. The lyrics, “I got my driver’s license last week, just like we always talked about,” quickly turn to sorrow as she drives through familiar places, reminded of her lost love. The chorus, “Guess you didn’t mean what you wrote in that song about me, ’cause you said forever, now I drive alone past your street,” poignantly conveys the pain of seeing an ex move on. The song’s raw emotion and relatable narrative of young love and heartbreak have resonated with listeners worldwide, making it a modern breakup anthem.

Submit Your Song to This Playlist

Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.

Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.