47 Songs About Letting Go & Moving On

“The Dance” by Garth Brooks

Song year: 1989

“The Dance “is a calming country melody that reflects on the idea of living life to the fullest, even in the face of loss and grief.

The song encourages listeners to cherish their memories and keep dancing, even when it feels like everything else has stopped.

“Gone Too Soon” by Michael Jackson

Song year: 1991

Written by the king of pop himself, “Gone Too Soon” is a touching ballet written for a friend of Michael who was kicked out of school for having AIDS.

The beauty of the song is that it mourns someone who was taken before their time and pays tribute to them through numerous heart-filled analogies and soothing instrumentals. It’s straightforward, calming, and perfectly captures the feelings of a tragic death.

“Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton

Song year: 1992

“Tears in Heaven” is a tearful track that speaks to the prospect of loss and the profound impact it can have on one’s life. It provides relief and consolation to those who are grieving and helps them find hope and healing in the memories of their loved ones, even if they’re gone.

“Beloved” by Mumford and Sons

Song year: 2018

As “Beloved” talks about in its lyrics, there are times you know that someone close to you is going to pass away. In that case, you must take it upon yourself to comfort them and let them know that they’re loved.

Letting them go is important, but you should never let them leave alone. You should hold their hands and let them draw their last breaths, knowing you care. It’s for this reason that the tune of the song is somewhat upbeat, and there’s a hint of hopefulness in the voice as he sings the words.

“Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

Song year: 1992

While the original singer was Dolly Parton in 1974, Whitney Houston took the song to a whole new level in her version 10 years later. Parton’s version is fantastic in its own right, but Houston’s vocals are so incredibly powerful that we had to choose her cover for this list.

You’ve likely heard this song before and know it’s all about saying goodbye. Perhaps in this instance, it refers to a breakup, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be applied to various aspects of a person’s life.

“I’m Still Here” by John Rzeznik

Song year: 2002

If you’re familiar with the underrated Disney film Treasure Planet, then you might know this one.

It’s a touchy-feely song that helps us remember that no matter what, we’re still here, and we’ve got to deal with all the loss and hardships that come our way. That’s why it’s important to remain vigilant, optimistic, and strong.

“Slipped Away” by Avril Lavigne

Song year: 2004

“Slipper Away” was written for Avril Lavigne’s grandfather, who passed away while she was on tour.

As all songs about letting go tell us, death is tough to deal with and tends to stick with you for the rest of your life. It’s even worse when we’re not there, and it happens unexpectedly. The regret of not being there hurts most of all, yet it happens all too often.

“Say You Love Me” by Fleetwood Mac

Song year: 1975

“Say You Love Me” is a classic rock song that speaks to the end of a relationship, with lyrics asking for closure and truth. The song describes feelings of loss, regret, and the need to move on.

“Let it Be” by The Beatles

Song year: 1970

“Let it Be” is about having faith and the strength to let it be when the going gets rough. There are allusions to mother Mary, who is often regarded as a symbol of purity, modesty, and faith, which complements the overarching message of endurance.

The song is one of the Beatles’ rock-defining tracks that made them famous and has touched the hearts of millions over the past 50 years. Even if you’re not religious or have a different faith, this song still has a worthwhile message and is quite pleasant to listen to if you’re ever feeling depressed or anxious.

“Rise Up” by Andra Day

Song year: 2015

Andra Day’s soulful memento presents a message of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. It implores the listener to draw upon their inner fortitude and to rise above the challenges that life presents, regardless of the past.

“Wake Me Up” by Avicii

Song year: 2013

As an artist who was taken before his time, Avicii gave the world hope and inspiration through his music.

One such song that accomplishes this is “Wake Me Up,” as it explores the darkness of adversity and ponders on the unpredictability of life. All you can really do is move forward and keep hoping for a better future.

Best Songs About Letting Go, Final Thoughts

Once again, losing someone isn’t easy. You have to live each day with the memories you made and the hardships you’ve faced, which is why it’s so hard to let go.

Hopefully, you can find a bit of peace within these songs, many of which were written by people who share a similar experience. Remember, it’s not about forgetting those who are gone; it’s about remembering them with a smile on your face.