11 Sad Songs by Pink: Emotion in Motion

Hey music lovers and fellow DJs, TBone here from Level Tunes!

With over 20 years in the music industry, I’ve spun records, curated playlists, and shared countless tracks that touch the soul.

Today, I’m diving deep into a genre I absolutely adore, and that’s brought us some of the most poignant, heart-wrenching tunes out there.

I’m talking about the incredible Pink and her repertoire of songs that can bring a tear to even the toughest of us. Why focus on the sad songs, you ask? Because they resonate.

They tell stories, evoke emotions, and connect us on a human level. So, I’ve handpicked 11 sad songs by Pink that have not only moved me but have also been a significant part of my two-decade-long journey in music.

Let’s explore these tracks together and find beauty in the melancholy.

Here are the sad songs by Pink that you can check out:

List Of Sad Songs by Pink

Sad songs by Pink in a list format:

“Who Knew”

“Who Knew” is one of those tracks that instantly grabs your heart and refuses to let go. Released in 2006 as part of Pink’s fourth studio album, “I’m Not Dead,” this song comes to us from the creative powerhouse of Pink, Max Martin, and Dr. Luke. It’s under the banner of LaFace Records, a label known for nurturing unique talents. What draws me to “Who Knew” is its haunting melody coupled with Pink’s raw, emotional delivery. The song delves into the pain of losing someone unexpectedly, capturing the essence of grief and the wishful thinking of having more time. It’s the kind of track that, no matter how many times you hear it, always leaves a lump in your throat. The juxtaposition of upbeat instrumentation with the somber theme is Pink at her best – showcasing her ability to navigate complex emotions through music.

“Just Give Me a Reason”

Released in 2012 as part of the album “The Truth About Love,” “Just Give Me a Reason” is a poignant duet between Pink and Nate Ruess, the lead vocalist from Fun. This song, under the RCA Records label, stands out for its beautiful narrative of seeking to revive a fading relationship. The collaboration between Pink and Ruess is magical, with their voices blending to create a powerful dialogue between two lovers trying to hold onto each other. The song’s success is not just in its melody or its lyrical depth but in its universal message – the fight for love against all odds. I chose this song because it’s a masterpiece of storytelling in music, showcasing Pink’s versatility as an artist and her ability to convey complex emotional states through song.

“Try”

From Pink’s sixth studio album, “The Truth About Love” (2012), comes “Try,” a song that epitomizes resilience and the courage to keep going in the face of adversity. Released under RCA Records, “Try” showcases Pink’s unmatched ability to blend pop rock with a message that’s both empowering and heart-wrenching. The song’s lyrics, co-written by Pink and Busbee, urge listeners to keep trying in love and life, even when the odds seem stacked against them. What I love about “Try” is its compelling narrative, delivered through Pink’s powerful vocals and a melody that sticks with you long after the song ends. It’s a reminder that vulnerability and strength can coexist, making “Try” a standout track in Pink’s discography.

“Family Portrait”

“Family Portrait,” featured on Pink’s second album “Missundaztood” (2001), is a deeply personal song that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of divorce. Released under Arista Records, this track stands as a testament to Pink’s songwriting prowess, offering a raw and unfiltered look into her own experiences with a broken home. The emotional weight of “Family Portrait” is palpable, with Pink’s delivery conveying a mix of pain, longing, and a desperate wish for a different reality. I’m drawn to this song because it bravely tackles a subject many find hard to speak about, doing so with honesty and sensitivity. It’s a powerful reminder of music’s ability to heal and connect us through shared experiences.

“Glitter in the Air”

Featured on her fifth studio album, “Funhouse” (2008), “Glitter in the Air” is a breathtaking ballad that showcases Pink’s incredible vocal range and her ability to capture the subtleties of human emotion. Released by LaFace Records, this song is a poetic exploration of vulnerability, wonder, and the fleeting moments that define our existence. The live performance of “Glitter in the Air” at the Grammy Awards was a defining moment for Pink, combining aerial acrobatics with a vocal performance that left audiences spellbound. I chose this song for its beauty and its ability to transport listeners to a place of introspection and awe. It’s a reminder of Pink’s artistry, both as a vocalist and a performer.

“Please Don’t Leave Me”

“Please Don’t Leave Me” comes from Pink’s fifth album, “Funhouse,” released in 2008. This track, under LaFace Records, digs deep into the theme of fear of abandonment, wrapped in a catchy, up-tempo beat that contrasts sharply with its lyrical content. Pink’s ability to mix pop sensibilities with deeply personal themes is on full display here. The song’s video further illustrates the turbulent emotions involved in clinging to a relationship even at its breaking point. I love this song for its raw honesty and the way it combines Pink’s signature blend of humor and heartbreak, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who’s ever feared losing someone they love.

“Sober”

“Sober,” another gem from “Funhouse” (2008), explores the theme of finding clarity and identity outside of the party scene and substance abuse. With its powerful lyrics and compelling melody, the song reflects Pink’s

personal journey towards self-discovery and the realization that one can find strength and happiness within themselves, without the need for external validation or escape through substances. Released by LaFace Records, “Sober” stands out for its introspective lyrics and Pink’s passionate vocal performance, which conveys the internal struggle and ultimate liberation in facing one’s demons head-on. The song resonates with me because it’s about the challenge of confronting and overcoming personal battles, a universal experience that Pink translates into a powerful and uplifting anthem. It’s a testament to her skill as a songwriter and her courage to share such a personal story with the world.

“Beam Me Up”

From the album “The Truth About Love” (2012), “Beam Me Up” is a tender ballad that showcases a different side of Pink’s musical repertoire. This track, released under RCA Records, is a heartfelt plea for solace and understanding, a momentary escape from the pain of loss. The song’s acoustic arrangement and Pink’s emotive delivery create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, inviting listeners into a shared space of grief and longing. What draws me to “Beam Me Up” is its simplicity and raw emotion, highlighting Pink’s ability to connect on a deeply personal level through her music. It’s a beautiful, poignant piece that speaks to the heart’s capacity for love and the pain of separation.

“I Don’t Believe You”

“I Don’t Believe You,” featured on Pink’s fifth studio album, “Funhouse” (2008), dives into the complexities of doubt and denial in a relationship on the brink of collapse. Through LaFace Records, Pink delivers a song that is both delicate and powerful, with lyrics that capture the confusion and denial that comes with not wanting to accept the end of a relationship. The simplicity of the arrangement allows Pink’s voice to carry the emotional weight of the song, showcasing her talent for conveying vulnerability and strength simultaneously. I’m captivated by “I Don’t Believe You” because it’s a raw, honest reflection on love and loss, demonstrating Pink’s depth as an artist and her ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion.

“Who Knew”

Yes, I’ve mentioned “Who Knew” again because it’s worth reiterating the impact of this song. Its significance in Pink’s catalogue and its emotional resonance with listeners make it a pivotal track in understanding her as an artist and as a person. The song’s exploration of loss and the wishful thinking of immortality in memories showcases Pink’s skill in crafting songs that speak directly to the soul. It’s a masterpiece of pop music, blending catchy melodies with profound lyrical depth, a testament to Pink’s enduring talent and her ability to touch on universal themes with grace and power.

“Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken”

“Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken,” from the album “Beautiful Trauma” (2017), is a powerful anthem of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Released under RCA Records, this song stands as a declaration of Pink’s unwavering spirit and her commitment to speaking out for what she believes in. The simplicity of the piano accompaniment paired with Pink’s raw vocal delivery makes for a stark, impactful statement on the strength of the human spirit. This song resonates with me for its message of empowerment and Pink’s ability to inspire through her music. It’s a reminder that, no matter the obstacles, our wild hearts cannot be broken.

“90 Days”

Featuring Wrabel, “90 Days” is a track from Pink’s eighth studio album, “Hurts 2B Human” (2019), released under RCA Records. This song delves into the emotional turmoil of separation and the introspective journey of questioning one’s decisions and relationships. The duet’s harmonies, combined with a minimalist production, highlight the song’s introspective nature, making it a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. What makes “90 Days” stand out is its raw honesty and the relatable depiction of vulnerability in the face of uncertainty. It’s a beautifully crafted song that showcases Pink’s ability to evolve as an artist while staying true to her emotional and lyrical depth.

Fun Facts: Sad Songs by Pink

“Just Give Me a Reason”

• Collaboration Origin: The collaboration between Pink and Nate Ruess for “Just Give Me a Reason” wasn’t planned from the start. Nate Ruess initially came to work on a completely different song. However, during the session, Pink played him the first verse of “Just Give Me a Reason,” and he loved it so much that they ended up writing the rest of the song together.
• Accidental Hit: Pink has mentioned in interviews that “Just Give Me a Reason” was almost left off the album because she didn’t realize its potential as a hit. It was Nate Ruess and her husband, Carey Hart, who convinced her of the song’s power, leading to its release and subsequent success.

“Try”

• Choreographed Perfection: The music video for “Try” is renowned for its intense and emotionally charged dance sequence. The choreography was done by the Golden Boyz (RJ Durell and Nick Florez) and by the incredible performance artist Sebastien Stella. Pink trained extensively to perform the intricate dance, showcasing her commitment to her artistry beyond just singing.
• Inspiring Lyrics: “Try” was inspired by the saying, “Why do we fall? So we can learn to pick ourselves back up.” This message of resilience and perseverance resonates throughout the song, making it an anthem for anyone facing challenges or setbacks.

“Family Portrait”

• Personal Story: “Family Portrait” is one of Pink’s most autobiographical songs. It delves into her feelings and experiences growing up in a family going through divorce. Pink has shared that the song was difficult for her mother to listen to because of its raw and honest depiction of their family’s struggles.
• Healing Through Music: Despite its initial impact, “Family Portrait” played a significant role in healing the relationship between Pink and her mother. The song’s release opened up a dialogue between them, showcasing the power of music to mend and foster understanding.

“Glitter in the Air”

• Grammy Performance: Pink’s performance of “Glitter in the Air” at the 2010 Grammy Awards is often cited as one of the most memorable Grammy moments. She sang while performing an aerial silk routine high above the audience, all without missing a beat, truly showcasing her versatility and fearlessness as a performer.
• Critical Acclaim: The song received widespread acclaim for its lyrical depth and Pink’s vocal performance. It was praised as a highlight of the “Funhouse” album and considered by many as one of Pink’s best live performances, further cementing her status as a powerhouse vocalist and performer.

“Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken”

• Social Message: “Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken” was inspired by Pink’s involvement with the movie “Suffragette,” which tells the story of women’s fight for their rights. The song became an anthem for social justice and empowerment, resonating with audiences worldwide for its powerful message.
• Unplugged Performance: Pink chose to perform “Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken” at the 2018 Grammy Awards in a simple, stripped-down setting, wearing a white T-shirt and jeans. This choice highlighted the song’s message rather than the spectacle, drawing attention to its lyrics and Pink’s vocal delivery.

As we journey through these 11 sad songs by Pink, we’re reminded of the power of music to touch our souls, evoke emotions, and connect us. Pink’s artistry shines, offering solace and understanding through her poignant lyrics and unforgettable melodies. Let’s keep finding comfort in the music we love.

Thanks for reading.

TBone