11 Underrated Sad Songs: Deeply Moving Songs

Hey there, music enthusiasts! TBone here, the heart and soul behind Level Tunes. As a DJ and a die-hard music fan, I’ve always been passionate about sharing those hidden gems that don’t always make it to the top of the charts.

Today, I’m diving into a topic that’s close to my heart: underrated sad songs. We all have those moments when we need a tune that resonates with our blues, right?

I’ve handpicked 11 songs that are not just beautifully melancholic but also criminally underrated. These tracks have been my solace during tough times, and I believe they deserve more recognition.

So, let’s embark on this emotional journey together, discovering songs that touch the soul in ways mainstream hits often miss. Get ready to add some incredible tracks to your playlist!

Here are the underrated sad songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Sad Songs

Underrated sad songs in a list format:

1. “River of Tears” by Eric Clapton

From the album “Pilgrim” (1998, Reprise Records), “River of Tears” is a masterpiece by Eric Clapton that often gets overshadowed by his more famous hits. This song is a poignant reflection of Clapton’s personal grief and loss, particularly following the tragic death of his son. The guitar work, as expected from Clapton, is both soulful and intricate, weaving a tapestry of emotion that’s hard to escape. The reason I chose this song is its raw power to evoke deep emotions, making it a perfect companion for those reflective, introspective moments.

2. “Truce” by Twenty One Pilots

“Truce” is a hidden gem from Twenty One Pilots’ album “Vessel” (2013, Fueled by Ramen). This song is a hauntingly beautiful piano ballad that delves into themes of depression and hope. Tyler Joseph’s vocals are filled with a vulnerability that’s both relatable and comforting. The simplicity of the arrangement makes it even more powerful. I included “Truce” in this list because of its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, offering a sense of solace and understanding.

3. “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron

Featured on the album “Strange Trails” (2015, IAMSOUND Records), “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron is a melancholic ballad that gained some popularity after being featured in a TV show but still remains underrated. The song’s ethereal sound, combined with its nostalgic lyrics about lost love, creates a haunting atmosphere. I chose this song for its ability to transport listeners to a different time and place, evoking a sense of longing and bittersweet memories.

4. “Elephant” by Jason Isbell

From Jason Isbell’s album “Southeastern” (2013, Southeastern Records), “Elephant” is a heart-wrenching song about dealing with a loved one’s terminal illness. Isbell’s storytelling prowess shines through in this track, painting a vivid and emotional picture. The song’s stark and raw approach to such a sensitive topic is both brave and moving. I selected “Elephant” for its honest and unflinching look at pain and mortality, something that’s rarely captured so poignantly in music.

5. “Lua” by Bright Eyes

“Lua,” from the album “I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning” (2005, Saddle Creek Records), is a beautifully sad song by Bright Eyes. Conor Oberst’s fragile vocal delivery, accompanied by a simple acoustic guitar, makes this song a standout. It’s a raw portrayal of loneliness and the struggles of dealing with personal demons. I included “Lua” in this list for its intimate and bare approach to songwriting, which creates a deep connection with the listener.

6. “Casimir Pulaski Day” by Sufjan Stevens

Sufjan Stevens’ “Casimir Pulaski Day” is from his album “Illinois” (2005, Asthmatic Kitty). This song is a melancholic narrative about loss, faith, and the complexity of human emotions. Stevens’ gentle voice, combined with the soft strumming of the banjo, creates a deeply touching and introspective experience. I chose this song for its storytelling ability and the way it gracefully handles the themes of love and loss.

7. “Small Hands” by Keaton Henson

From the album “Dear…” (2012, Motive Sounds Recordings), “Small Hands” by Keaton Henson is a heartbreakingly beautiful song. Henson’s delicate and emotional vocal delivery, coupled with minimalistic instrumentation, makes this track a raw expression of grief and sorrow. The reason behind choosing this song is its profound simplicity and the ability to convey deep emotions with so few words.

8. “I Know It’s Over” by The Smiths

Featured on “The Queen Is Dead” (1986, Rough Trade Records), “I Know It’s Over” is a classic by The Smiths that often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. Morrissey’s melancholic lyrics and Johnny Marr’s emotive guitar work create a timeless piece about unrequited love and despair. I included this song for its poetic lyrics and the way it perfectly captures the essence of heartache.

9. “Blood” by The Middle East

“Blood” is a track from The Middle East’s album “The Recordings of the Middle East” (2009, Spunk Records). This song is an evocative blend of folk and indie, with a haunting melody that stays with you long after the song ends. The reason for its inclusion is the way it builds up from a gentle beginning to a powerful climax, mirroring the emotional journey of the lyrics.

10. “The Funeral” by Band of Horses

From their album “Everything All the Time” (2006, Sub Pop Records), “The Funeral” by Band of Horses is a song that combines melancholy lyrics with a soaring melody. The contrast between the introspective verses and the explosive chorus makes this track both heartbreaking and uplifting. I chose “The Funeral” for its emotional depth and the way it resonates with listeners who have experienced loss.

11. “Flume” by Bon Iver

“Flume,” from Bon Iver’s debut album “For Emma, Forever Ago” (2007, Jagjaguwar), is a hauntingly beautiful song. Justin Vernon’s unique falsetto and the sparse, atmospheric instrumentation create a sense of isolation and introspection. This song is included for its raw emotional power and the way it captures the feeling of solitude and introspection in its purest form.

Fun Facts: Underrated Sad Songs

“River of Tears” by Eric Clapton

• Fact 1: “River of Tears” was written during a particularly difficult period in Clapton’s life, marked by his separation from his then-partner. The song reflects his personal pain and sorrow.
• Fact 2: The guitar solo in “River of Tears” is often praised for its emotional depth. Clapton’s ability to express his feelings through his guitar work is a hallmark of this song.

“Truce” by Twenty One Pilots

• Fact 1: “Truce” is the closing track of the album “Vessel,” and it’s significantly quieter compared to the other tracks. This was a deliberate choice to end the album on a reflective and personal note.
• Fact 2: The song is often used by fans as an anthem for hope and survival, especially in the context of mental health and depression.

“The Night We Met” by Lord Huron

• Fact 1: “The Night We Met” gained a significant boost in popularity after being featured in the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why,” where it was used in a pivotal dance scene.
• Fact 2: The song has a time-traveling theme, which is a recurring motif in Lord Huron’s music, often reflecting on nostalgia and the passage of time.

“Elephant” by Jason Isbell

• Fact 1: “Elephant” is known for its storytelling, which is a characteristic of Jason Isbell’s songwriting. The song doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of cancer, making it a brutally honest piece.
• Fact 2: Despite its heavy subject matter, Isbell never actually uses the word “cancer” in the lyrics, a deliberate choice to focus more on the emotional impact rather than the disease itself.

“Lua” by Bright Eyes

• Fact 1: “Lua” showcases Conor Oberst’s ability to write deeply personal and introspective lyrics. The song reflects on themes of loneliness and the struggles of young adulthood.
• Fact 2: The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart, a rare achievement for an indie folk song, highlighting its widespread appeal despite its somber tone.

“Casimir Pulaski Day” by Sufjan Stevens

• Fact 1: The song is named after a holiday in Illinois celebrating Casimir Pulaski, a Revolutionary War figure. The holiday’s inclusion in the song adds a layer of depth to the storytelling.
• Fact 2: Stevens blends personal narrative with religious imagery in this song, which is reflective of his upbringing and personal beliefs.

“Small Hands” by Keaton Henson

• Fact 1: Keaton Henson is known for his reclusive nature, which adds to the intimate and vulnerable feel of his music, particularly in “Small Hands.”
• Fact 2: The music video for “Small Hands” features delicate puppetry, which won the UK MVA for Best Budget Indie/Rock Video in 2012.

“I Know It’s Over” by The Smiths

• Fact 1: Morrissey’s emotive lyricism in “I Know It’s Over” is often considered some of his best work, capturing the essence of despair and unrequited love.
• Fact 2: The song is a fan favorite at Smiths’ concerts, known for its powerful live performances that often left audiences deeply moved.

“Blood” by The Middle East

• Fact 1: “Blood” was used in several films and TV shows, which helped bring the song to a wider audience. Its cinematic feel fits well with visual storytelling.
• Fact 2: The Middle East, an Australian band, disbanded not long after their rise to fame, making “Blood” one of the few legacies of their brief but impactful career.

“The Funeral” by Band of Horses

• Fact 1: “The Funeral” has been used in numerous TV shows, commercials, and movies, becoming somewhat of a go-to track for emotionally charged scenes.
• Fact 2: The song’s lyrics are open to interpretation, with fans often debating their meaning. The ambiguity adds to the song’s appeal and emotional depth.

“Flume” by Bon Iver

• Fact 1: “Flume” was part of Bon Iver’s debut album, which Justin Vernon famously recorded in a remote cabin in Wisconsin during a particularly harsh winter.
• Fact 2: The album, including “Flume,” was initially self-released, with Vernon handling most of the instrumentation and recording himself, adding to the song’s intimate and personal feel.

And there you have it, folks! A journey through 11 underrated sad songs that deserve a spot in your playlist. Each track tells a story, evoking emotions that resonate deeply. Remember, music is a companion in every mood, and these songs are sure to be there for you in your reflective moments. Keep listening and exploring!

Thanks for reading.

TBone