4 of the Angstiest Rock Breakup Songs of the 2000s

Heartbreak is no easy thing to deal with. Sometimes, there’s no dealing with it at all. All one has to do is ride the waves of grief until it’s time to move on. So, why not go with the ebb and flow of a breakup with some sick, angsty rock tunes? Let’s dive into four of the angstiest rock breakup songs from the 2000s!

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1. “Pain” by Jimmy Eat World

Alt-rock outfit Jimmy Eat World are no strangers to a solid breakup song. However, our favorite is definitely “Pain” from the 2004 album Futures. Lyrics like “I never thought I’d walk away from you / I did / But it’s a false sense of accomplishment / Every time I quit” are a punch to the gut.

2. “Gives You Hell” by The All-American Rejects

This is definitely one of the angstiest pop punk rock breakup songs of the 2000s, and also one of The All-American Rejects’ most memorable songs. “Gives You Hell” is definitely on the cheeseball side of power pop and pop punk, but it’s a banger nonetheless. 

If you need a song that is more upbeat and validating over a somber breakup song, this one’s perfect for you.

3. “Which To Bury, Us Or The Hatchet?” by Relient K

When a breakup happens, especially suddenly, it can be really hard to overcome one’s anger and ability to reflect on the good times. This 2004 anthem describes that whole, complicated emotion quite beautifully. 

“Which To Bury, Us Or The Hatchet?” by Relient K is all about having love for someone and not necessarily hating them for dumping you, but needing time away from them nonetheless.

4. “All Hail The Heartbreaker” by The Spill Canvas

“All Hail The Heartbreaker” by The Spill Canvas is one of our favorite angstiest rock breakup songs from the 2000s. This track comes from the band’s 2004 album Sunsets & Car Crashes. Honestly, the whole of that alt-rock emo pop album is essential listening, but “All Hail The Heartbreaker” is the most noteworthy breakup song on that record.

If you find yourself obsessively thinking about all the details about the one who got away after a breakup, you’ll probably find some comfort in this song.

Photo by Paul Harries/Courtesy of The Syndicate

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