When sadness strikes, music becomes a universal balm, offering solace in moments of heartbreak, loss, or reflection. As Pakistan navigates the joys and challenges of 2025, Today Pakistan News presents a curated list of top songs you must listen to during sad moments—tracks that resonate deeply with the soul, blending global hits with local echoes, as of March 13, 2025.
1. “Hurt” – Johnny Cash (2002)
Johnny Cash’s haunting cover of Nine Inch Nails’ “Hurt” tops our list with its raw portrayal of regret and mortality. The sparse acoustic guitar and Cash’s weathered voice strike a chord for anyone facing personal struggles—perfect for a quiet night in Karachi or Quetta.
2. “Someone Like You” – Adele (2011)
Adele’s soulful ballad about love lost remains a tearjerker in 2025. Its piano-driven melody and heartfelt lyrics—“Never mind, I’ll find someone like you”—echo the pain of breakups, a universal sentiment felt from Lahore’s streets to Islamabad’s cafes.
3. “Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo” – Farida Khanum (1970s)
This Pakistani ghazal classic, with Farida Khanum’s emotive delivery, captures the ache of separation. Its timeless plea—“Don’t insist on leaving today”—resonates with listeners in Peshawar or Hyderabad seeking comfort in cultural roots.
4. “Tears in Heaven” – Eric Clapton (1992)
Written after the tragic loss of his son, Clapton’s gentle guitar and tender vocals offer a cathartic release for grief. In Pakistan, where family ties run deep, this song speaks to those mourning loved ones in 2025.
5. “Hallelujah” – Leonard Cohen (1984, Jeff Buckley 1994)
Jeff Buckley’s ethereal rendition of Cohen’s masterpiece blends melancholy with hope. Its poignant lyrics—“Love is not a victory march”—make it a go-to for reflective moments in Skardu’s serene valleys.
6. “Dil Jalane Ki Baat” – Ali Sethi (2020)
Ali Sethi’s modern take on Punjabi folk brings heartbreak to life with soul-stirring vocals. A favorite among Pakistan’s youth, it’s a must-listen for late-night introspection in Faisalabad or Multan.
7. “Everybody Hurts” – R.E.M. (1992)
This anthem of shared pain—“When your day is long and the night, the night is yours alone”—reminds listeners they’re not alone. Its universal appeal uplifts spirits across Pakistan’s urban and rural divides.
“Music heals by letting us feel deeply,” says Lahore-based therapist Sana Malik. “These songs mirror our emotions, offering a safe space to process sadness.” Whether you’re reeling from a breakup or a tough day, this playlist—spanning decades and genres—promises solace. Stream them on Spotify or YouTube, and share your favorites at todaypakinews@gmail.com as we navigate 2025’s emotional tides together: