Valentine's Day: Massive Spike In Heartbreak Song Streaming In Sa

Valentines Day 14 February is a day of celebrating love. However, love doesnt always work out - and people often turn to music to soothe their souls when this happens.

According to Spotify data shared with Current Affairs ZA , streaming of heartbreak songs spiked 116 in South Africa between 13 and 15 February over the past three years.

Heartbreak during Valentines is seemingly worse in Sub-Saharan Africa as a whole, with the region showing a 194 increase in heartbreak song listening.

Nigeria leads the charge with a staggering 626 surge, followed by Ghana at 226 and Uganda at 206. Kenya also experienced a substantial increase of 189, with Tanzania seeing a rise of 132.

Surprisingly, 52 of listeners of heartbreak songs in Sub-Saharan Africa are men, with women making up 46.

During the 2024 Valentines season, the most played heartbreak tracks include global hits like Someone You Loved by Lewis Capaldi, lovely by Billie Eilish and Khalid, and Say You Wont Let Go by James Arthur, Spotify said.

Spotify data also reveals that users frequently listen to Tate McRae, Lord Huron and Tom Odell during this period, alongside emerging artists whose emotionally charged music resonates deeply with listeners.

Furthermore, listeners most often stream heartbreak songs between 16:00 and 18:00, typically during their commute home or as they unwind for the evening.

If love hasnt worked out and youre in your feels during Valentines Day 2025, try out Spotify Africa's End In Tears playlist. Alternatively, you could set the mood with 100 Best African Love Songs .