When words are lost, music translates the sadness. Graphic by Chelsea Copeland.

CHELSEA COPELAND | OPINION COLUMNIST | ccopeland@butler.edu 

We all have that playlist we run to in moments of sorrow or sometimes even in the moments where the smiles on our faces couldn’t be more real. Just because the lyrics are sad doesn’t mean you have to have to be sad to enjoy the song. 

I don’t have to be down when I listen to sad songs. I love the soothing beat and the emotion radiating from the singer’s voice, but there’s more to sad songs. To me, the ideal playlist is composed of different genres of emotional music and doesn’t follow the stereotype surrounding sad songs. 

First-year theater major Sam Miller is inclined to believe that just because a song conforms to a sad feeling does not mean that you must be sad.

“Sometimes sad music isn’t supposed to make you upset,” Miller said. “It’s supposed to make you feel seen.”

We formulate playlists based on songs we like, though the songs’ vibe doesn’t have to stay consistent; you pick songs that convey a message we resonate with. However, the genre of sad songs you listen to can have a lot to say.

Relationship heartbreak

I can not argue with the fact that this style of music is addicting, but that doesn’t mean you need to listen to these songs just to remind you of that summer fling you fell in love with. Yes, heartbreak hurts but listening to songs that remind you of that person will get you nowhere except trapped in the cycle of loving someone you can’t have. 

Keegan O’Connor, a first-year music performance and psychology double major, believes that it is vital to maintain a balance when listening to heartbreak songs.

“I think it’s a little concerning if someone only listens to heartbreak songs,” O’Connor said. “That’s like being a little trapped in that genre, but I think they’re generally good.” 

There is comfort within the lyrics that lets you know you aren’t the only one struggling with the pain of a breakup, but you are worth more than someone who broke you.

Listening to the intricate lyrics of songs like “The Exit” by Conan Gray can support you in the lowest moments. If you go against your better judgment and decide to listen to songs like this, be sure to exit the song before you think too hard about your ex-situationship. 

Revenge 

If you listen to revenge music, you are honestly terrifying. Regardless of how good the music is, there are better ways to handle a sh*tty ex than making an entire playlist about wishing upon their downfall — maybe try getting over them? If this is the entirety of your sad playlist, I strongly suggest a rage room or even an anger management course!

Yes — I just recommended anger management, but it is an amazing resource that anyone should use, and if you are still stuck on your ex, it might be beneficial to work on possible attachment issues. I cannot think of a song that is a more suitable example of overblown aggression than  “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood. This song is very well known for the revenge-seeking aspect and while the lyrics are catchy, executing them would not be legally advisable. 

Problems arise when you begin to further your song-inspired revenge plot into actions that cause damage. I know a lot of people joke about slashing three tires and not four, but — fun fact — if you slash any of their tires you are scary! 

If tire slashing is something you are considering, I suggest you listen to another style of music that won’t foster new ideas on how to get back at your ex. They aren’t worth your time anyway. 

Grief 

Grief is a b*tch. There is no other way to describe it than that. The emotions, devastation and silence become suffocating. If this is your favorite sub-genre, you might pivot to more product coping methods, because reliving the loss can amplify your pain. Instead of listening to songs about death, there are much better ways to cope, such as therapy or journaling. 

Listening to artists discuss the loss of a loved one is the furthest thing from a light or uplifting topic. I guess I am confused as to why you would want to listen to a song that reminds you of your loss and just reinstates those emotions. It’s almost like you want to sob uncontrollably instead of finding comfort in other things. 

“Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran is one of those songs that I can listen to on repeat, but I think an entire playlist of grief songs might drive me crazy. Compiling a playlist of grief songs just seems like you are intentionally putting yourself in a spot where tears are the only option. Sad music itself is a rollercoaster of emotions and grief music is one steep decline. 

Overall, sad music extends beyond these categories. Every sad playlist is composed of different songs that have a personal connection to you. Despite the fact I roasted these sub-genres, sad music is beautiful and can often be used in moments where you aren’t sad at all. 

First-year arts administration major Teagan Fore sees the beauty within sad songs that extend beyond the ones I have listed above. 

“I think sad girl … songs are one of the best genres of songs in the world,” Fore said. “They’re like chill, sad and fun because sad songs are fun.” 

Sad music is more than just words and underlying messages, it can provide an escape that people need. Even I need that escape, and funny enough I have a sad playlist on while writing this because the function of sad music knows no limits. Music can be used for whatever you decide, and despite the fact I roasted your playlist, I don’t mean it … or do I?