Taylor Swift’s biggest tear-jerkers: The songs that break the Hearts of Swifties
Taylor Swift's loyal fans have taken to social media to rank the superstar's most tear-jerking songs.
In a heartfelt discussion on X (formerly known as Twitter), Swifties opened up about the Taylor Swift songs that never fail to bring them to tears. Known for her emotional depth, Swift’s discography is filled with songs that hit home. Here’s a look at the tracks that have fans reaching for tissues, ranked from bittersweet to utterly devastating.
'Robin' (The Tortured Poets Department: Anthology, 2024)
'Robin' captures the fragile beauty of childhood wonder. Through poetic lyrics about adventure and curiosity, it reflects a nostalgic tenderness. Describing a child-like ruler who is blissfully unaware of life’s inevitable harshness, this track is bittersweet. Swifties who love songs about growing up slowly but surely find themselves emotional here, feeling a deep connection to the innocence portrayed in the lyrics.
'The Prophecy' (The Tortured Poets Department: Anthology, 2024)
In ‘The Prophecy’, Swift crafts a tragic tale of yearning and uncertainty. With haunting lines such as 'I guess a lesser woman would’ve lost hope' and a plea to change a supposedly destined future, the song wrestles with fate, ambition and the anguish of waiting for love that seems destined never to arrive. It’s the kind of song that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt powerless against their own destiny — a cry for a different ending.
'Never Grow Up' (Speak Now, 2010)
Swift takes a walk down memory lane with ‘Never Grow Up’, capturing the universal pain of watching children grow and life change. Fans who remember holding on to their childhood dreams and loved ones can’t help but have their heartstrings tugged. The message of the song – that growing up means leaving behind a familiar and safe world of comfort – speaks to both parents and young listeners alike. As the song plays out, it’s not just about children growing older, but the passage of time itself.
'Illicit Affairs' (Folklore, 2020)
'Illicit Affairs' tears at the heart with its detailed portrayal of secrecy, shame, and heartbreak. Swift’s gentle yet pained voice leads listeners through the painful reality of a love that must be hidden. Its raw emotion and the sense of irreversible damage caused by infidelity make it one of Swift’s most gut-wrenching tracks. This song resonates with anyone who has ever been lost in a complicated and damaging relationship.
'Marjorie' (Evermore, 2020)
'Marjorie' is a delicate tribute to Swift’s late grandmother. Written with a mixture of gratitude, nostalgia and grief, the track explores the idea that those we’ve lost are never truly gone. The inclusion of real audio clips of 'Marjorie' adds a personal touch, creating a beautiful yet heartbreaking ode to a woman who clearly had a profound impact on Swift. Fans who have lost loved ones find solace in the poignant reflection on memories that continue to live within us.
'Ronan' (Red, 2012)
Based on the true story of a four-year-old boy who passed away from cancer, ‘Ronan’ stands as one of Swift’s most emotional and touching songs. Written with input from Ronan’s mother, it gives voice to the indescribable pain of losing a child. Swift’s gentle vocals and the stripped-back production create an intimate, sorrowful ballad that tugs at the deepest emotions. Fans often cite 'Ronan' as the song that brings them to tears without fail, as it captures the devastation of a loss too painful to put into words.
'Soon You’ll Get Better' (Lover, 2019)
Topping the list is 'Soon You’ll Get Better', a heart-wrenching song about Swift’s own mother’s battle with cancer. It’s raw, vulnerable and achingly personal. The trembling in Swift’s voice as she sings lines such as, 'I hate to make this all about me / But who am I supposed to talk to?' makes it impossible not to cry. Fans dealing with their own struggles or watching loved ones go through illness feel an undeniable connection to the fear and hope that this song embodies. It’s a masterclass in emotional storytelling and remains Swift’s most powerful tearjerker to date.
Each of these tracks exemplifies Swift’s gift for connecting with listeners on a deeply emotional level, from childhood innocence to the heartache of loss. Whether they serve as reminders of personal experiences or speak universally to human struggles, these songs have earned their place as the ultimate Swiftie tear-jerkers.
