Songs about suicide have been a popular and enduring theme in music for decades.
From the haunting ballads of Billie Holiday and Neil Young to the explosive anthems of Linkin Park and My Chemical Romance, these songs explore the many complex emotions and experiences associated with suicide and self-harm.
Let’s take a look at some songs that might help you get through whatever you are going through.
1.Gloomy Sunday by Billie Holiday
Gloomy Sunday, also known as the “Hungarian Suicide Song,” is a beautiful song originally composed in 1933 by Hungarian pianist and composer Rezső Seress.
The song gained notoriety due to its melancholic melody and lyrics about suicide
Billie Holiday’s haunting rendition of the song in 1941 only added to its dark reputation, cementing it as a classic song about despair and hopelessness.
2.Mad World by Tears for Fears
Mad World is a melancholic and haunting song by the British band Tears for Fears.
The song was originally released in 1982
It experienced renewed popularity in 2001 when a cover version by Gary Jules was featured in the film “Donnie Darko.”
The song’s lyrics speak to the isolation and despair of modern life, with lines like:
“The dreams in which I’m dying are the best I’ve ever had.”
Despite its dark themes, the song has resonated with listeners around the world, becoming a beloved classic of the 80s and beyond.
3.Suicide is Painless by Johnny Mande
American composer Johnny Mandel wrote the song “Suicide is Painless,” with lyrics by Mike Altman.
The song is most famous for being the theme song of the television show MAS*H, which aired from 1972 to 1983.
The lyrics of the song touch on the theme of suicide and the pain and suffering caused by war.
Despite its dark subject matter, the song has become an enduring classic and has been covered by many artists over the years
4.Adam’s Song by Blink-182
Adam’s Song is a song by the American rock band Blink-182
It was released in 1999 as part of their album “Enema of the State.”
Band members Tom DeLonge and Mark Hoppus wrote the song, which deals with themes of depression, loneliness, and suicide.
Despite its dark subject matter, the song became a hit and remains a popular and powerful piece of music to this day, resonating with many who have experienced similar struggles.
5.The Needle and the Damage Done by Neil Young
The Needle and the Damage Done is a poignant and deeply personal song by Canadian singer-songwriter Neil Young.
He originally released the song in 1972 as part of his album “Harvest,” and it is widely regarded as a classic of the singer-songwriter genre.
The lyrics of the song were inspired by the heroin addiction and subsequent death of Young’s friend and fellow musician Danny Whitten.
The song is a raw and emotional exploration of the destructive power of addiction and the toll it can take on both the individual and those around them
6.Fade to Black by Metallica
Fade to Black is a song by the American heavy metal band Metallica
It was originally released in 1984 as part of their album “Ride the Lightning.”
Lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist James Hetfield wrote the song, which deals with themes of depression, suicide, and despair.
The lyrics were inspired by Hetfield’s personal struggles with depression and the accompanying feelings of hopelessness.
7.Hurt by Johnny Cash
Hurt is a song originally written by Trent Reznor and performed by his band, Nine Inch Nails, in 1994.
In 2002, country music legend Johnny Cash recorded a cover of the song for his album “American IV: The Man Comes Around.”
The song’s lyrics deal with themes of self-harm, addiction, and regret, and Cash’s haunting
It’s emotional rendition of the song is widely regarded as one of the most powerful covers in music history.
The song’s music video, which features footage of Cash’s life and career,
It has also become an iconic and deeply moving piece of art in its own right
8.Black by Pearl Jam
Black is a song by the American rock band Pearl Jam.
It was originally released in 1991 as part of their debut album “Ten.”
Lead vocalist Eddie Vedder wrote the song, which powerfully and emotionally explores heartbreak, loss, and the pain of unrequited love.
The lyrics of the song are deeply personal and reflect Vedder’s own experiences of heartbreak and betrayal.
Despite never being released as a single, “Black” has become one of Pearl Jam’s most beloved and iconic songs
9.Everybody Hurts by R.E.M.
Everybody Hurts” is a song by the American rock band R.E.M.
It released in 1992 as part of their album “Automatic for the People.”
The band members wrote the song, which deals with themes of loneliness, sadness, and hopelessness.
The lyrics of the song aim to comfort and reassure those who may be going through difficult times, .
The song’s uplifting chorus and gentle melody have made it one of R.E.M.’s most beloved and enduring hits
10.Wake Up by Arcade Fire
Wake Up is a song from the debut album “Funeral” by the Canadian indie rock band Arcade Fire.
Wake Up was released in 2004 and has gained immense popularity among fans due to its powerful lyrics and soaring melody.
The lyrics of the song focus on the themes of loss, grief, and the pursuit of hope and meaning in difficult times.
If you enjoyed learning about the lyrics of this iconic hit, be sure to check out more of my content about song lyrics for other timeless classics and modern favorites
