Why does the cello have such a "sad" sound to it?

Question

Why is it when the lower notes of a song are played on a cello, it sounds so somber? I found this phenomenon (if it can be called that) it is most obvious to me on the Max Payne theme song and in Cannon in D

Answer 1

Or Janos Starker.

The cello has a "human" voice.  Perhaps that's the sadness you hear.

It is a sublime instrument.

Answer 2

hello Phil! and yes, the cello can have a somber tone. BUT listen to YoYo Ma play it, and maybe you'll have a different view. : }