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1. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
The ending of “Bohemian Rhapsody” is iconic for its chilling simplicity. After a whirlwind of operatic chaos and rock fury, Freddie Mercury’s final words, “Nothing really matters…” resonate deeply with listeners. This poignant conclusion encapsulates the song’s existential themes, leaving a lasting impact. The juxtaposition of the song’s earlier intensity with this quiet ending creates a powerful emotional contrast. Queen’s ability to blend various musical styles culminates in an unforgettable finale that has been celebrated since its release in 1975. The song has been streamed over 1.6 billion times on Spotify, showcasing its enduring popularity.
2. “Someone Like You” – Adele
Adele’s “Someone Like You” concludes with a gentle, trembling falsetto that embodies vulnerability and raw emotion. The final notes linger in the air, leaving listeners with a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. This ending is particularly powerful as it reflects the song’s themes of heartbreak and acceptance. Adele’s vocal delivery is both haunting and unforgettable, making it a standout moment in modern music. Released in 2011, the song has sold over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone, solidifying its place in music history.
3. “Blackstar” – David Bowie
David Bowie’s “Blackstar” serves as a haunting farewell, released just days before his death in January 2016. The song’s cryptic lyrics and eerie instrumentation culminate in an ending that feels like a final statement from the artist. Bowie’s declaration, “I’m not a pop star…” resonates with fans, emphasizing his complex relationship with fame. The song’s experimental nature and poignant conclusion have led to widespread acclaim, with many considering it one of his best works. “Blackstar” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, highlighting its impact.
4. “Motion Picture Soundtrack” – Radiohead
The final track on Radiohead’s “Kid A,” “Motion Picture Soundtrack,” ends with ghostly harps and organs, creating an ethereal atmosphere. This haunting conclusion feels like being pulled into another dimension, leaving listeners in a reflective state. The song’s surreal quality aligns with the album’s overall themes of alienation and existentialism. Released in 2000, “Kid A” marked a significant shift in the band’s sound and has since been hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time. The ending of “Motion Picture Soundtrack” encapsulates the album’s innovative spirit.
5. “Hey Jude” – The Beatles
The outro of “Hey Jude” is a communal cry of release and joy, with the famous na-na-na refrain extending for several minutes. This ending invites listeners to join in, creating a sense of unity and celebration. The song’s message of encouragement and resilience resonates deeply, making it a timeless anthem. Released in 1968, “Hey Jude” has sold over 8 million copies in the U.S., and its sing-along ending remains one of the most memorable moments in music history. The Beatles’ ability to connect with audiences is exemplified in this powerful conclusion.
6. “Runaway” – Kanye West
Kanye West’s “Runaway” features an outro that stretches over three minutes, filled with distorted, wordless pain. This messy yet genius conclusion serves as a cathartic release, allowing listeners to experience a range of emotions. The rawness of the outro reflects West’s vulnerability and artistic vision, making it a standout moment in his discography. Released in 2010, “Runaway” has been critically acclaimed and is often cited as one of West’s best works. The emotional weight of the ending leaves a lasting impression on listeners.
7. “Jesus of Suburbia” – Green Day
Green Day’s “Jesus of Suburbia” is a 9-minute punk opera that culminates in a glorious, bittersweet crescendo. The song’s ending captures the essence of youth in freefall, reflecting themes of rebellion and disillusionment. This powerful conclusion showcases the band’s ability to blend storytelling with musicality, making it a standout track on their album “American Idiot.” Released in 2004, the album has sold over 6 million copies in the U.S. alone, and “Jesus of Suburbia” remains a fan favorite for its epic finale.
8. “Hurt” – Johnny Cash (Nine Inch Nails cover)
Johnny Cash’s cover of “Hurt” features a frail vocal delivery that transforms the song into a poignant goodbye. The ending serves as a confession, encapsulating a moment of truth and reflection. Cash’s interpretation adds a layer of depth, making it a powerful farewell to his legacy. Released in 2002, this version has been widely acclaimed, with many considering it one of the greatest covers of all time. The emotional weight of the ending resonates with listeners, leaving a lasting impact.
9. “Ultralight Beam” – Kanye West
In “Ultralight Beam,” the choir fades gently, and Chance the Rapper’s verse echoes, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The ending feels like the gates of heaven closing softly behind you, leaving listeners in a state of contemplation. This powerful conclusion aligns with the song’s themes of faith and hope, making it a standout moment on West’s album “The Life of Pablo.” Released in 2016, the song has been praised for its innovative production and emotional depth, solidifying its place in modern music.
10. “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” – Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” concludes on a slow fade, evoking the feeling of a memory slipping through your fingers. This poignant ending encapsulates the song’s narrative of heartbreak and nostalgia, leaving listeners with a sense of longing. The extended version, released in 2021, has been met with critical acclaim, showcasing Swift’s storytelling prowess. The emotional weight of the ending resonates deeply, making it a powerful conclusion to an already impactful song. Swift’s ability to connect with her audience through her lyrics is exemplified in this haunting finale.
11. “Perfect Day” – Lou Reed
Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” ends with a haunting reprise of the line “You’re going to reap just what you sow.” This simple yet profound statement lingers, leaving listeners contemplating the consequences of their actions. The song’s ending contrasts with its earlier sweet and serene tones, creating a powerful emotional shift. Released in 1972, “Perfect Day” has become a classic, celebrated for its lyrical depth and haunting conclusion. The song’s enduring impact is a testament to Reed’s artistry.
12. “Exit Music (For a Film)” – Radiohead
Radiohead’s “Exit Music (For a Film)” builds from a whisper to a scream, only to end in silence. This cinematic conclusion leaves listeners in a state of shock and reflection. The song’s themes of escape and despair are encapsulated in its powerful ending, making it a standout track on the album “OK Computer.” Released in 1997, the album has been hailed as one of the greatest of all time, with “Exit Music (For a Film)” contributing to its legacy. The ending’s emotional intensity resonates deeply with listeners.
13. “Champagne Supernova” – Oasis
“Champagne Supernova” by Oasis drifts away slowly with a psychedelic wash of guitars, like fading sunlight on a perfect day. This dreamy ending leaves listeners in a state of contemplation, reflecting the song’s themes of nostalgia and longing. Released in 1996, the song has become a staple of Britpop, celebrated for its anthemic quality and memorable conclusion. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Oasis’s ability to craft powerful musical moments. The ending’s ethereal quality resonates with listeners, leaving a lasting impression.
14. “Space Oddity” – David Bowie
David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” ends with Major Tom lost in space, and the song just drifts into silence. This haunting conclusion leaves listeners with a sense of isolation and wonder. Released in 1969, the song has become one of Bowie’s most iconic works, celebrated for its innovative storytelling and memorable ending. The song’s themes of exploration and existentialism are encapsulated in its powerful conclusion, making it a timeless classic. The ending’s emotional impact resonates deeply with listeners.
15. “Holocene” – Bon Iver
Bon Iver’s “Holocene” concludes with the last lines humming and dissolving like breath in winter air. This quiet yet impactful ending leaves listeners in a state of reflection, encapsulating the song’s themes of introspection and self-discovery. Released in 2011, the song has been praised for its lyrical depth and haunting conclusion. The song’s ethereal quality and emotional weight make it a standout moment in modern music. The ending’s subtlety resonates deeply with listeners, leaving a lasting impression.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
