200 Best Songs About Unrequited Love
Unrequited love. The dreamy gazes, the sleepless nights, and the pining heartaches that seem to last forever. Many of us have been there, and if not, we’ve certainly felt the sting through some iconic tunes.
So, let’s look at some serenades about one-sided love and “what could have been.”
Table of Contents
Top 7 Songs About Unrequited Love
Choosing the ultimate top of unrequited love songs was no easy feat, given the vast ocean of heart-wrenching tunes out there. Each of these tracks stands out for its unique take on the age-old tale of loving someone who might not even know your last name.
1. “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron
The Gist: An eerie, haunting reflection on a love that’s lost, but not forgotten.
Behind the Music: Making its debut in 2015, this track gained massive popularity after being featured in the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. The song captures the anguish of wanting to turn back time and undo the pain. When Ben Schneider (Lord Huron’s frontman) croons, “Take me back to the night we met,” it embodies the longing to relive moments with someone who isn’t around anymore. It’s not just about romantic love but also the pang of missing a cherished connection.
2. “Someone Like You” by Adele
The Gist: A heart-wrenching ballad that delves into the aftermath of running into an old flame who’s moved on.
Behind the Music: Dropping in 2011 as part of the 21 album, the track tells a tale of confronting the painful realization that someone you once loved is happy with someone else. It’s not just about the pain but also the maturity to wish them well.
The lyrics, “Never mind, I’ll find someone like you,” touch a chord, reminding listeners of their own tales of lost love.
3. “Lovefool” by The Cardigans
The Gist: A catchy tune that encapsulates the desperation of wanting love from someone who isn’t as committed.
Behind the Music: Released in the 90s, this upbeat track from The Cardigans might seem like a fun, pop song at first listen. But delve deeper into the lyrics, and you’ll find a narrative of a person pleading for love and attention.
The lines, “I don’t care about anything but you” showcases the depth of emotions.
4. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt
The Gist: A ballad about the pain of loving someone who doesn’t love you back.
Behind the Music: This emotional song was released in 1991. Bonnie Raitt’s raspy voice cuts deep, conveying a raw vulnerability. The lyrics, penned by Mike Reid and Allen Shamblin, unravel the painful realization of being in love with someone who doesn’t share the same feelings.
The heartache is palpable, especially with lines like, “I’ll close my eyes, then I won’t see, the love you don’t feel when you’re holding me.”
5. “Creep” by Radiohead
The Gist: A grungy anthem of feeling out of place and longing for someone out of reach.
Behind the Music: Radiohead dropped this track in 1992 and it quickly became a classic. Thom Yorke’s voice mixed with the grunge-inspired instrumentals encapsulates the feeling of being an outsider. The lyrics touch on the idea of longing to be something you’re not, especially for the sake of someone else’s affection.
“I want you to notice when I’m not around,” showcases that deep-seated need for acknowledgment from the object of affection.
6. “Teardrops On My Guitar” by Taylor Swift
The Gist: A sweet yet sad narrative of pining over a friend who’s infatuated with someone else.
Behind the Music: Young Taylor Swift, back in 2006, brought this track to life, depicting the story of a girl secretly in love with her friend Drew. The song, like many of Swift’s early hits, draws from her personal experiences, making it all the more relatable.
With lines like, “He’s the reason for the teardrops on my guitar,” Swift perfectly encapsulates the feeling of seeing your crush with someone else.
7. “Vincent” by Don McLean
The Gist: It dives deep into the theme of misunderstood genius – Vincent Van Gogh.
Behind the Music: Released in 1971, Don McLean’s “Vincent” is a tribute to the legendary painter. While the theme may not be traditionally romantic, the song embodies the essence of yearning for understanding and acknowledgment.
The line, “They did not listen, they did not know how,” beautifully mirrors the sentiments of unrequited love where feelings and affections go unnoticed or unappreciated.
Deep Longing and Unfulfilled Desires
The ache of wanting someone you can’t have, the feeling of longing paired with the sharp sting of knowing it’s a desire that will likely remain unfulfilled.
The songs listed below encapsulate that profound yearning, the kind that keeps you up at night, staring at the ceiling, wondering “what if?”
- “If I Can’t Have You” by Shawn Mendes: With an upbeat tempo belying the depth of its lyrics, Mendes captures the obsessive nature of unrequited love.
- “Not In That Way” by Sam Smith: Sam Smith’s hauntingly beautiful voice lays bare the agony of loving someone who doesn’t love you back.
- “The Heart Wants What It Wants” by Selena Gomez: Gomez delivers a raw, emotional account of clinging to a love that’s slipping through her fingers. It’s a soundtrack for those moments when you’re trying to let go but your heart won’t listen.
- “Can I Be Him” by James Arthur: Arthur’s longing to be the one his beloved desires.
- “Mercy” by Shawn Mendes: Another hit from Mendes, “Mercy” pleads for release from the torment of loving someone who doesn’t see you the way you see them.
- “I Want the One I Can’t Have” by The Smiths: Morrissey and co. dive into the complexities of unrequited love with their signature melancholy sound.
Reflections on Love Lost and Regret
There’s a certain beauty in the melancholy of looking back on a love that once was but is no more.
Whether it’s the result of circumstances, choices, or simply the cruel hand of fate, these songs delve into the aftermath of love lost.
- “Call Out My Name” by The Weeknd – The Weeknd’s soulful voice expresses the pain of giving your all to someone who walks away. It’s a haunting reflection on the sacrifices we make for love.
- “Almost Lover” by A Fine Frenzy – This song is a tender goodbye to a love that was never fully realized. It’s a wistful, longing glance back at what could have been.
- “Hello” by Adele – Adele’s powerhouse vocals bring to life the deep sorrow of looking back on a past love.
- “Drivers License” by Olivia Rodrigo – Rodrigo’s breakout hit captures the raw emotion of first love and first heartbreak.
- “Chasing Pavements” by Adele – Should I give up, or should I just keep chasing pavements? Adele questions the worth of pursuing a love that might never be reciprocated.
- “Jar of Hearts” by Christina Perri – Perri confronts a past lover who’s left a trail of broken hearts, including hers. It’s a powerful reclaiming of self-worth and strength in the face of betrayal.
The Pain of Seeing the One You Love with Someone Else
Perhaps one of the most exquisite tortures is loving someone who belongs to another. These songs capture the heartache of watching from afar, harboring feelings that must be kept hidden, all while seeing the object of your affection with someone else.
- “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield – Springfield perfectly encapsulates the envy and desire for an unattainable love. It’s the classic tale of wanting someone you can’t have, made even more painful because she’s with your friend.
- “You Belong with Me” by Taylor Swift – Swift’s catchy tune tells the story of unspoken love and the hope that they’ll realize they belong with you. It’s a youthful, hopeful take on loving someone from the sidelines.
- “Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus – With a mix of humor and angst, Wheatus gives voice to the underdog in love. It’s a reminder of the awkwardness of teenage love, especially when it feels out of reach.
- “Mr. Watson” by Kesha – Kesha’s track dives into the longing for someone who doesn’t notice you. It’s a playful look at unrequited love.
- “The Girl of My Best Friend” by Elvis Presley – Presley brings the timeless pain of falling for your best friend’s girl to life.
Anguish and Heartache
These songs dive deep into the coreo f heartache, expressing the raw, often messy emotions that come with loving someone who doesn’t love you back. They articulate the pain, the longing, and the sheer force of emotion that can consume you.
- “I Hate Myself for Loving You” by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts – Jett’s rock anthem captures the frustration and self-resentment that comes with unrequited love. It’s a powerful release of anger and pain.
- “Grenade” by Bruno Mars – Mars uses vivid imagery to express his devotion and the betrayal. It’s a dramatic portrayal of heartache and sacrifice.
- “Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak – Isaak speaks to the torment of falling for someone who plays with your heart. It’s an ode to the torture of unreturned love.
- “Un-Break My Heart” by Toni Braxton – Braxton’s soulful plea for her lover to return and undo the pain.
- “Love Stinks” by The J. Geils Band – A more lighthearted take on the theme, this song acknowledges the universal truth that sometimes, love just stinks.
- “Black” by Pearl Jam – Vedder’s emotive delivery captures the deep sorrow of loving someone who’s left an indelible mark on your soul.
Yearning for Reciprocation
These songs are the voice of the heart’s deepest desires—to be seen, to be loved, and to be wanted in the same way that they want another. They articulate the hope, the dreams, and the silent prayers for affection and recognition from the object of their desire.
- “Adore” by Cashmere Cat ft. Ariana Grande – Grande expresses the depth of her adoration and the longing to be as important to her lover as he is to her.
- “Roxanne” by The Police – Sting’s plea to Roxanne to change her life and notice the love he has for her.
- “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)” by The Temptations – A soulful daydream of love that’s not real but feels vivid in the heart and mind of the dreamer.
- “I Hate U, I Love U” by Gnash (Featuring Olivia O’Brien) – A modern take on the complexities of loving someone who doesn’t feel the same way. It’s a duet that perfectly captures the push and pull of a heart in turmoil.
- “Waiting in Vain” by Bob Marley: Bob Marley mixes reggae rhythms with the universal theme of waiting for love that might never arrive.
- “One Fine Day” by The Chiffons: It is an optimistic pop song about unrequited love turning hopeful. It expresses a steadfast belief that the person she loves will eventually recognize and return her feelings, envisioning a future where they are together.
Moments of Clarity and Self-Discovery
There comes a time in the saga of unrequited love when the clouds part, and a beam of clarity shines through. It’s that pivotal moment when you start seeing the love you’ve been chasing in a new light.
This enlightenment doesn’t make the journey any less painful, but it does sprinkle a bit of wisdom on the wound. It’s about discovering what you truly deserve and realizing that sometimes, not getting what you want can be a stroke of luck.
- “I Can Love You Like That” by John Michael Montgomery – A heartfelt promise of unwavering devotion, often overlooked in the search for something more.
- “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad” by Meat Loaf – Meat Loaf’s way of saying, “I’m almost there, but not quite,” which is a hard pill to swallow but a necessary one.
- “I’ll Be True to You” by Oak Ridge Boys – A declaration of fidelity, shadowed by the bittersweet reality that love doesn’t always follow through.
- “I Don’t Have to Wonder” by Garth Brooks – Brooks talks about moving on, finding peace in the closure that comes from within.
- “Liability” by Lorde – Lorde’s introspective realization that perhaps the greatest love affair one can have is with oneself, even when it feels lonely.
The Turmoil of Hidden Feelings
The secret agony of harboring feelings you dare not reveal. These tunes delve into the clandestine corners of our hearts where we stash away those feelings.
It’s about loving from a distance and the bittersweet pain of admiration from the shadows.
- “You Don’t Know My Name” by Alicia Keys – Alicia’s smooth vocals give voice to the yearning of an unnoticed love, simmering beneath the surface of casual encounters.
- “Secret Love Song” by Little Mix ft. Jason Derulo – A duet that captures the ache of a love that must remain hidden.
- “You’re Beautiful” by James Blunt – Blunt’s haunting confession of a fleeting moment of connection with a stranger, unspoken and impossible.
- “I’d Lie” by Taylor Swift – Swift classic that delves into the denial and disguise that come with unspoken love.
- “Invisible Man” by 98 Degrees – The agony of being unseen, unnoticed, and unloved, despite being there all along.
- “Johnny Angel” by Shelley Fabares – The classic tale of loving someone who has no clue you exist, set to a catchy ’60s pop tune.
The Agony of Parting Ways
There’s a unique kind of torment reserved for those moments when love slips through our fingers. It’s the goodbye you never wanted to say, the farewell that feels like it’s tearing your soul apart.
These songs are the companions of those who’ve had to walk away from a piece of their heart, leaving it behind in the hands of another.
- “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye – Gotye and Kimbra exchange verses like blows, narrating the disintegration of a relationship into a memory.
- “Over My Head” by Fleetwood Mac – A classic tale of love and loss, reminding us that sometimes love goes over our heads.
- “It’s a Heartache” by Bonnie Tyler – Tyler’s raspy voice belts out the universal truth that love can sometimes be nothing but a heartache.
- “Goodbye” by Air Supply – A soft rock goodbye that’s as tender as it is painful.
- “Back to December” by Taylor Swift – Swift’s apology and reflection on a love lost, wishing for the chance to go back and make things right.
Just a Friend: The Friendzone Anthems
The friend zone, that special purgatory where romantic aspirations go to either die a slow death or transform into something… well, still mostly painful. It’s the limbo of “I like you, but like a brother.”
These songs are the soundtrack to the all-too-familiar tale of unrequited love that doesn’t quite make it to romance but takes a sharp left turn into friendzone.
- “Damn Good Friends” by Elle Varner – Varner gives us a soulful look into the complexities of being just a bit too close to someone you can’t have.
- “Just a Friend 2002” by Mario – Mario updates Biz Markie’s classic with a smooth R&B twist, lamenting the age-old problem of being relegated to the friend zone.
- “Just A Friend To You” by Meghan Trainor – Trainor’s ukulele-backed track is a bittersweet confession of wanting more but settling for the joy of friendship.
- “Just a Friend” by Biz Markie – The quintessential friend zone anthem that combines humor with a touch of heartache. Biz’s off-key chorus is a battle cry for those who’ve ever been told, “Let’s just be friends.”
- “Like a Friend” by Pulp – Pulp delivers a less conventional take on the theme, with a raw and edgy confession of desire masked by friendship.
- “Not Just Friends” by Connell Cruise – Cruise dives into the denial phase of the friend zone, where you’re convincing yourself there’s still hope.
- “You See Friends I See Lovers” by Westlife – The moment of realization that what you see isn’t what you get. It’s the heart-wrenching difference between friends and lovers, seen through hopeful eyes.
- “F-R-I-E-N-D-S” by Marshmello & Anne-Marie – It is an upbeat and catchy pop song that explores the theme of unrequited love and setting boundaries in relationships.
Acceptance and Moving On
These songs are the companions for those nights when you decide it’s time to heal, to accept the loss, and to find strength in solitude. They sing of the moment you realize that perhaps, some loves are meant to teach, not to last.
It’s about embracing the pain, learning from it, and finally, letting it go.
- “Stone Cold” by Demi Lovato – A poignant song that delves deeply into the raw emotions of seeing someone you once loved be happy with someone else. The song beautifully captures the bittersweetness of wanting happiness for a former lover, despite the personal pain it causes.
- “It Must Have Been Love” by Roxette – A classic ballad that captures the essence of looking back on a love that once was. It’s about coming to terms with the end of a relationship and the silent acknowledgment that it’s time to let go.
- “Let It Go” by James Bay – Bay’s heartfelt plea to let go of a love that’s causing more harm than good. It’s a powerful anthem for anyone finding the courage to say goodbye.
- “Dancing on My Own” by Robyn – With pulsing beats, Robyn turns the pain of watching the one you love from afar into a moment of self-empowerment.
- “I’m a Mess” by Bebe Rexha – Rexha’s raw admission of her vulnerabilities post-breakup is both relatable and reassuring. It’s okay to not be okay as you’re moving on.
- “Without Me” by Halsey – Halsey reflects on the aftermath of a relationship where she felt more like an enabler than a partner. It’s a declaration of rediscovering one’s worth and moving forward.
Country Ballads About Unrequited Love
In the world of country music, heartbreak is practically a competitive sport. It’s the soundtrack for those who have loved and lost, then decided to write a song about it while sitting on the tailgate of a truck under a sky full of stars.
- “Anymore” by Travis Tritt – Travis belts out what it’s like to lie to everyone, including your mirror, about being over someone.
- “Not Your Cinderella” by Payton Rae – Payton’s giving a boot to the idea of waiting around for someone to save her.
- “Need You Now” by Lady A – The anthem for every late-night text you regret in the morning. Lady A captures that 2 AM feeling of missing someone.
- “Dawns” by Zach Bryan – Zach Bryan’s voice carrying the weight of unspoken words and missed opportunities.
- “He Stopped Loving Her Today” by George Jones – The quintessential country heartbreak song that tells a story of love persisting beyond the end.
- “Heartache on the Dance Floor” by Jon Pardi – Jon Pardi captures the bittersweet feeling of spotting someone who could’ve been “the one” across a crowded room, only to lose them in the crowd.
- “How Do I Get There” by Deana Carter – Deana Carter asks the eternal question of how to bridge the gap between longing and having. It’s for those late-night drives when you’re half-tempted to drive past their house, just to feel closer.
- “Hurt” by Lady A – Lady A delves into the aftermath of love gone wrong, where the only thing left is the pain that lingers. It’s for those who know that sometimes, the only way out is through.
- “I Don’t Know How to Tell You This” by Faith Ling – Faith Ling captures the essence of trying to articulate feelings that words can barely contain. It’s for scribbled notes never sent and texts deleted before hitting send.
- “I’d Lie” by Taylor Swift – Taylor Swift sings of the secret confessions of a heart too scared to reveal its true feelings.
Rock & Alternative Songs For Unrequited Love
Rock and alternative rock take the feelings of unrequited love and amplify them to eleven. It’s where emotion meets distortion, and you’re left wondering whether to headbang or cry into your pillow – so you do both.
- “Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls – This song dives into loving someone so much that you’d give up immortality just for the chance to be seen by them.
- “It’s Sad to Belong” by England Dan & John Ford Coley – Ever fallen for someone right after you’ve committed to someone else? This song is like “Sorry, I’m busy forever.”
- “Self Esteem” by The Offspring – It’s like a musical reminder that sometimes the biggest obstacle in your love life is, well, you.
- “Surrender” by Billy Talent – When you’re ready to wave the white flag at love but your heart didn’t get the memo.
- “A Little Less Sixteen Candles, a Little More ‘Touch Me'” by Fall Out Boy – A pop-punk anthem capturing the angst and energy of youth, wrapped around the theme of unrequited love.
- “All to Myself” by Marianas Trench – Blending rock with pop elements, it’s a confession of wanting someone’s love all to oneself.
- “Amnesia” by 5 Seconds of Summer – A pop-rock ballad that dives into the pain of trying to forget someone you once loved deeply.
- “Black Cloud” by Morrissey – Indie-rock exploration of gloom and unrequited love under a metaphorical black cloud.
- “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass – A classic rock narrative that tells a tale of a barmaid and her love for a sailor, embodying the essence of longing and sacrifice.
- “Brass in Pocket” by The Pretenders – A rock song with a confident swagger, expressing determination to make someone notice her love.
- “Closer Than You Might Believe” by Alanis Morissette – A rock-infused introspection on closeness and the complex feelings of unspoken love.
- “Cornerstone” by Arctic Monkeys – A post-punk revival track filled with longing for a past love, marked by Alex Turner’s clever lyrics and melancholic vocals.
- “Crown of Love” by Arcade Fire – An indie rock ballad that speaks to the persistence of love, even when it’s not returned in the way one hopes.
- “Crying” by Roy Orbison – A timeless rock ballad about the pain of losing love.
- “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover” by Sophie B. Hawkins – Blending rock with soulful pop, it’s a passionate outcry for unfulfilled desire.
- “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” by The Police – A rock classic that captures a crush and the yearning for her love.
- “Flavor of the Weak” by American Hi-Fi – A pop-punk track that deals with liking someone who’s in a relationship with someone not right for them.
- “Foolish Games” by Jewel – This song’s emotional depth and guitar backing give it a rock ballad essence.
- “Hot for Teacher” by Van Halen – A hard rock humorous take on schoolboy crushes and unrequited love.
- “I’ll Wait” by Van Halen – Another Van Halen classic, with themes of longing and patience for love.
- “Layla” by Derek and The Dominos – A rock masterpiece blending electric blues with the agony of loving someone who belongs to another.
- “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M. – With its iconic mandolin riff, it’s a rock anthem about unrequited love and the despair it brings.
- “My Heart Can’t Tell You No” by Rod Stewart – Stewart combines rock with soul to express the difficulty of denying one’s heart.
- “Something I Can Never Have” by Nine Inch Nails – Trent Reznor’s industrial rock sound captures the haunting reality of wanting something out of reach.
- “The Hardest Thing” by 98 Degrees – A pop song in the vein of a rock ballad, discussing the challenges of leaving someone you still love.
- “The Heart of the Matter” by Don Henley – Henley’s introspective rock ballad about coming to terms with the end of a relationship and seeking forgiveness.
- “To Be with You” by Mr. Big – A rock ballad that became an anthem for anyone who’s ever waited in the wings, hoping to be noticed.
- “You’ll Accomp’ny Me” by Bob Seger – Seger’s heartland rock song about believing that one day, the person he loves will be with him.
R&B & Soul Songs Singing the Pain Away Since Forever
R&B and soul genres make you feel like it’s okay to have attended the school of hard knocks and unreturned texts.
These tracks delve deep into the heart’s vulnerabilities, wrapping the ache of unrequited love in velvety vocals and poignant melodies.
- “Bad Religion” by Frank Ocean – Ocean’s tender and raw confession in a taxi cab serves as a modern hymn for the unrequited lover.
- “Could’ve Been” by H.E.R. featuring Bryson Tiller – A smooth, soulful duet that explores the haunting territory of “what ifs” and “if onlys.”
- “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” by Michael Bolton – Bolton sings about a future without the one you love. It’s a song for anyone who’s had to learn to let go, even when every fiber of their being didn’t want to.
- “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” by Al Green – Al Green asks the timeless question that anyone who’s ever been through a breakup has faced. With his soul-stirring voice, he seeks an answer to how to heal from love lost.
- “Fingers” by Zayn – “Fingers” captures the frustration and helplessness of trying to reach out to someone who’s no longer there.
- “You Don’t Know Me” by Ray Charles: Ray Charles brings soulful depth to the experience of loving someone who sees right through you, a timeless classic that resonates across generations.
The 70s – 80s Unrequited Love Anthems
In an era where disco reigned supreme and rock got a glam makeover, the music was as colorful as the fashion. Yet, beneath the glittering surface, the heart’s cries for unrequited love were as poignant as ever.
- “My Eyes Adored You” by Frankie Valli (1974): A sweet serenade to the one who got away.
- “So Into You” by Atlanta Rhythm Section (1976): A classic rock tune for anyone who’s ever been so into someone that they can’t think about anything else… even when it’s clear the feelings aren’t mutual.
- “If I Can’t Have You” by Yvonne Elliman (1977): A disco-infused plea for love that’s just out of reach.
- “Sometimes When We Touch” by Dan Hill (1977): A soft rock confession of love so intense it’s almost painful, especially when it’s not reciprocated.
- “I Wanna Be Your Lover” by Prince (1979): It seduces your unrequited feelings into thinking maybe, just maybe, there’s a chance.
- “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers (1979): For all the hopeless romantics who think they have a chance, even when all signs say otherwise.
- “She’s Out of My Life” by Michael Jackson (1980): MJ getting real about letting go.
- “Don’t You Want Me” by Human League (1981): A synth-pop standoff that’s essentially every ‘friend-zoned’ individual’s theme song.
- “Mickey” by Toni Basil (1981): The cheerleader anthem for when you’re rooting for your own love life to score some points.
- “Hello” by Lionel Richie (1983): Lionel’s smooth call into the void, hoping for a love that might never answer back.
- “Photograph” by Def Leppard (1983): A rock anthem that captures the longing and nostalgia for a love that’s as elusive as it is enduring.
- “Hard Habit to Break” by Chicago (1984): For when you can’t stop loving someone, even though your friends keep telling you it’s time to change the record.
- “What About Love” by Heart (1985): Heart’s powerful ballad is a rallying cry for those who’ve given their all to love, only to find themselves asking, “What about my love?”
- “She’s Like the Wind” by Patrick Swayze featuring Wendy Fraser (1987): A ‘Dirty Dancing’ classic that’s all about loving someone who’s just as untouchable as the wind.
- “Kissing a Fool” by George Michael (1988): George serenades the lovers who’ve kissed (or missed) their fair share of fools, hoping love’s around the corner.
Unrequited Love Hits of The ’90s
The 1990s, a time when grunge and pop collided. In this era artists found new ways to express the age-old sentiment of longing for someone who doesn’t feel the same way.
- “(Can’t Live Without Your) Love and Affection” by Nelson (1990): The ultimate hair metal ballad for anyone who’s ever wanted to shout their unrequited love from a mountaintop.
- “Have You Ever Needed Someone So Bad” by Def Leppard (1992): A rock ballad that really nails the feeling of wanting someone so much it hurts.
- “Walking on Broken Glass” by Annie Lennox (1992): Annie Lennox captures the exquisite pain of moving forward after love has left you shattered.
- “If” by Janet Jackson (1993): Janet mixes longing with a beat you can dance to, proving unrequited love can still be a bop.
- “Whenever You Come Around” by Vince Gill (1994): Vince Gill’s country ballad is a heartfelt ode to the rush of feelings that accompany the mere presence of someone you love from afar.
- “You Are Not Alone” by Michael Jackson (1995): Michael Jackson offers a tender reminder that in the vast landscape of unrequited love, no one is truly alone in their feelings.
- “Crush” by Mandy Moore (1999): The poppy backdrop to every teenage daydream about the one who doesn’t know you exist.
- “Have You Ever” by Brandy (1998): Brandy’s soulful inquiry into the depths of loving someone from afar.
- “Tell Him” by Celine Dion featuring Barbra Streisand (1997): Two powerhouse vocalists team up to sing about the courage it takes to confess your love.
- “The Last Worthless Evening” by Don Henley (1989): Don Henley’s soulful rock ballad for anyone counting down the evenings until their love realizes they’re meant to be together.
- “There’s Your Trouble” by The Chicks (1998): The Chicks bring country flair to the woes of loving someone who’s looking for love in all the wrong places.
- “Till You Love Me” by Reba McEntire (1994): Reba’s country-pop track captures the patience and pain of waiting for someone to love you back with the same intensity.
2000s Songs of Unreciprocated Feelings
This era brought us iconic pop anthems and emo ballads that captured the essence of longing in a time of technological connection.
It was a decade where you could anonymously post about your crush on forums or dedicate songs to them on anonymous playlists, hoping they’d somehow get the hint.
- “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton (2002): The ultimate song for anyone who’s ever thought about playing piano just to confess their love.
- “What I Go to School For” by Busted (2002): A pop-punk track that channels the teenage angst and thrill of having a crush on your teacher.
- “Why Don’t You Love Me” by Beyoncé (2008): Beyoncé turns up the sass and the question on everyone’s mind when they’re feeling unnoticed and unloved.
- “Tiny Vessels” by Death Cab for Cutie (2003): An indie rock narrative that delves deep into the heartache of being in a relationship where the love isn’t mutual.
- “I’m Not That Girl” by Idina Menzel (from “Wicked”, 2003): A Broadway hit that perfectly encapsulates the feeling of being the runner-up in someone’s affections.
- “Bleeding Love” by Leona Lewis (2007): For those who’ve ever felt like their heart was on the line, only to realize it was a solo game.
- “Everything You Want” by Vertical Horizon (2000): A song that hits right in the feels for anyone who’s been “right there” but still overlooked.
- “All I Wanted” by Paramore (2009): An anthem for the ones who poured their heart out, only to pick up the pieces alone.
- “Shiver” by Coldplay (2000): The chilling realization that the one you adore might as well be a million miles away.
- “5 Years’ Time” by Noah and The Whale (2007): A whimsical look at future possibilities that probably won’t include the object of your affection.
- “Are You Happy Now?” by Michelle Branch (2003): Michelle’s piercing inquiry into an ex’s current state, but also a tad bitter.
- “Can’t Keep on Loving You” by Elliott Yamin (2009): Elliott puts to melody the internal struggle of trying to move on when your heart has other plans.
- “Disappear” by Beyoncé (2008): A hauntingly beautiful track for when you wish you could just vanish rather than deal with the pain of unreturned feelings.
- “Dreaming with a Broken Heart” by John Mayer (2006): John Mayer asks the real questions about where broken hearts go.
- “Little Bit (Remix)” by Drake ft. Lykke Li (2009): Drake and Lykke Li team up to explore the complexities of almost-loves and what-ifs.
- “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele (2008): Adele covers Bob Dylan with such emotion, it’s become the go-to for anyone wanting to convey deep, unrequited love.
- “Sitting, Waiting, Wishing” by Jack Johnson (2005): Jack Johnson turns waiting for unrequited love into a laid-back beach tune.
- “Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains of Wayne (2003): A pop-rock ode to the ultimate crush on someone who’s just a tad too out of reach (because they’re your friend’s mom).
2010s Ballads of One-Sided Love
Entering the 2010s, unrequited love stories transitioned from mixtapes and missed calls to swipes and ghosting.
The era of dating apps and social media brought the complexities of one-sided affection to the forefront of pop culture.
- “Stephen” by Kesha (2010): A song dedicated to a guy who just doesn’t see what he’s missing.
- “Put You in a Song” by Keith Urban (2010): Keith Urban’s catchy country tune about wanting to capture the essence of someone he adores in a song.
- “You Don’t Know How Lucky You Are” by Keaton Henson (2010): An emotional outpouring for anyone who’s loved someone who doesn’t realize what they’re missing.
- “Waiting Outside the Lines” by Greyson Chance (2010): A pop anthem for those standing on the sidelines, mustering the courage to step into the uncertain arena of love.
- “Somebody’s Heartbreak” by Hunter Hayes (2011): For those moments when you’re willing to be heartbroken if it means being close to them.
- “Memphis” by Justin Bieber (Featuring Big Sean & Diplo) (2013): A throwback in the mix, Justin’s plea for a love that’s just out of reach.
- “Speak Now” by Taylor Swift (2010): Taylor Swift’s country-pop narrative about interrupting a wedding to confess your love.
- “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri (2011): The perfect track for waiting centuries for someone to notice your love.
- “Not Over You” by Gavin DeGraw (2011): Gavin perfectly captures the awkward moment you bump into your ex and pretend you’re totally over them… while you’re definitely not.
- “Nothin’ on You” by B.O.B. featuring Bruno Mars (2010): A smooth track that says, “Sure, there are others out there, but none can compare to you,” ideal for those nights spent scrolling through their social media.
- “It Takes A Muscle” by M.I.A. (2010): M.I.A. brings her unique style to the concept that sometimes, holding on to love takes more strength than letting go.
- “Don’t Pretend” by Khalid (2019): Khalid’s smooth call out to a lover keeping their distance.
- “Notice Me” by Alli Simpson (2013): Alli Simpson’s pop plea for just a glance from her crush is the anthem of every high schooler who’s ever wanted to be seen.
- “Anything Could Happen” by Ellie Goulding (2012): A hopeful melody for those holding onto the chance that maybe their love will be returned.
- “Baby” by Justin Bieber featuring Ludacris (2010): The pop sensation that became the backdrop for many a teenage crush saga.
- “Hello” by Adele (2015): Adele’s powerhouse voice captures the heartache of reaching out to a past love, only to be met with silence.
- “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz (2012): For the eternal optimists who see unrequited love not as a dead end, but a “not yet.”
- “Stitches” by Shawn Mendes (2015): A pop tune that stitches up the heart just enough to endure the pain of unreturned affection.
- “Warm Blood” by Carly Rae Jepsen (2015): Carly Rae offers a synth-pop confession of infatuation that’s as intoxicating as it is unattainable.
- “When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars (2013): Bruno Mars belts out regret and longing for a love that’s slipped through his fingers.
- “Better Now” by Post Malone (2018): Post croons about being better off post-breakup.
- “Good Thing” by Sam Smith (2014): A soulful acceptance of lost love, ideal for those who’ve decided maybe it’s for the best… while secretly hoping they change their mind.
- “Habits (Stay High)” by Tove Lo (2014): Tove Lo’s pop ode to trying anything to forget someone.
- “I Think I’m Still in Love with You” by Joyce Manor (2018): For when you’re not quite sure how you feel but definitely know it involves some lingering love.
- “Leave Your Lover” by Sam Smith (2014): Sam Smith’s heartbreaking plea for love that’s just out of reach, because sometimes hope is all you have left.
- “Unrequited Love” by Yuna (2016): Yuna’s soothing voice turns the pain of unreciprocated love into an introspective journey, ideal for late-night soul-searching.
- “She’s Not Me” by Zara Larsson (2017): Zara’s pop hit for when you see your former flame with someone new and can’t help but think, “They’ll never be me.”
- “Tears” by Clean Bandit featuring Louisa Johnson (2016): A dance track that makes you want to move, even as it talks about the tears of a love not returned.
- “I Love You” by Billie Eilish (2019): Billie’s confession is for the nights spent overanalyzing every interaction, wondering if saying “I love you” too soon was the deal-breaker.
Today’s Anthems of Unrequited Love
In the landscape of modern music, these tracks stand out for capturing the timeless theme of love left unreciprocated.
Each year, artists gift us with melodies that resonate with our deepest “almost but not quite” romantic encounters.
- “Weightless” by Arlo Parks (2020): Arlo Parks’ mellow beats create a comforting backdrop for moments when love feels more like a burden than a buoy.
- “All I Want” by Olivia Rodrigo (2020): The universal feeling of staring at your phone, waiting for a text that never comes.
- “All For You” by Cian Ducrot (2021): The perfect tune for those who’ve planned an entire future in their head, only to find out they’re solo in that fantasy.
- “Daylight” by Harry Styles (2022): A song about love that’s as elusive as trying to catch sunlight in your hands.
- “Emily I’m Sorry” by Boygenius (2022): A heartfelt apology wrapped in a melody, for when you’re crafting texts you’ll never send in your head at 2 AM.
- “Is There Someone Else?” by The Weeknd (2022): A track that’s basically the musical embodiment of scrolling through your crush’s social media, looking for clues.
- “Jaded” by Miley Cyrus (2023): Miley’s gritty take on getting over someone who never really was yours to begin with. It’s the “I’m over it” anthem for when you’re definitely not over it.
- “Kids Are Born Stars” by Lauv (2022): Lauv sings for every dreamer who’s ever been told they’re reaching too high – especially in love.
- “Loser” by Charlie Puth (2022): Charlie’s catchy chorus is for anyone who’s felt like the only one not in on the secret to making love work.
- “Midnight Rain” by Taylor Swift (2022): Taylor, the queen of unrequited love songs, delivers another hit for those midnight moments of reflection on loves that never quite made it.
- “TV” by Billie Eilish (2022): Billie captures the feeling of disconnect in a world more interested in screens than human hearts.
- “When I’m Alone” by Post Malone (2021): Post Malone’s ode to solitude and the thoughts of “what could have been” that accompany it.
- “You’re Losing Me” by Taylor Swift (2022): A song, embodying the essence of longing for someone who’s slipping away before they were even yours.
- “So Good” by Halsey (2022): Halsey nails the feeling of finally getting over someone who never deserved you in the first place.
- “Times” by Sara Bareilles (2022): A poignant ballad that deals with the complexities of timing in love and life, perfect for when you’re reflecting on what could have been.
- “I’m a Mess” by Avril Lavigne (2022): Avril returns to remind us that it’s okay to be a beautifully disheveled wreck when love doesn’t go your way.
So, if our list doesn’t include your personal heartache hymn, consider this an invitation to explore further and create your own ultimate playlist of unrequited love songs.
List of Songs About Unrequited Love
- “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron
- “Someone Like You” by Adele
- “Lovefool” by The Cardigans
- “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt
- “Creep” by Radiohead
- “Teardrops On My Guitar” by Taylor Swift
- “Vincent” by Don McLean
- “Not In That Way” by Sam Smith
- “The Heart Wants What It Wants” by Selena Gomez
- “Everything You Want” by Vertical Horizon
- “Can I Be Him” by James Arthur
- “Call Out My Name” by The Weeknd
- “Stephen” by Kesha
- “Anymore” by Travis Tritt
- “Almost Lover” by A Fine Frenzy
- “I Hate Myself for Loving You” by Joan Jett and The Blackhearts
- “Grenade” by Bruno Mars
- “If I Can’t Have You” by Yvonne Elliman
- “I Can Love You Like That” by John Michael Montgomery
- “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad” by Meat Loaf
- “Whenever You Come Around” by Vince Gill
- “Hello” by Adele
- “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover” by Sophie B. Hawkins
- “Un-Break My Heart” by Toni Braxton
- “To Be with You” by Mr. Big
- “Drivers License” by Olivia Rodrigo
- “Chasing Pavements” by Adele
- “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye
- “You Don’t Know My Name” by Alicia Keys
- “Flavor of the Weak” by American Hi-Fi
- “Times” by Sara Bareilles
- “If” by Janet Jackson
- “So Into You” by Atlanta Rhythm Section
- “5 Years’ Time” by Noah and The Whale
- “Put You in a Song” by Keith Urban
- “You Belong with Me” by Taylor Swift
- “I Wanna Be Your Lover” by Prince
- “Memphis” by Justin Bieber (Featuring Big Sean & Diplo)
- “Black Cloud” by Morrissey
- “Need You Now” by Lady A
- “You Don’t Know Me” by Ray Charles
- “Crush” by Mandy Moore
- “My Eyes Adored You” by Frankie Valli
- “Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls
- “Foolish Games” by Jewel
- “Mr. Watson” by Kesha
- “I Don’t Have to Wonder” by Garth Brooks
- “Dancing on My Own” by Robyn
- “The Hardest Thing” by 98 Degrees
- “It’s Sad to Belong” by England Dan & John Ford Coley
- “Not Just Friends” by Connell Cruise
- “Invisible Man” by 98 Degrees
- “Crown of Love” by Arcade Fire
- “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele
- “A Little Less Sixteen Candles, a Little More ‘Touch Me'” by Fall Out Boy
- “Leave Your Lover” by Sam Smith
- “Till You Love Me” by Reba McEntire
- “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield
- “Over My Head” by Fleetwood Mac
- “It’s a Heartache” by Bonnie Tyler
- “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)” by The Temptations
- “Creep” by Radiohead
- “F-R-I-E-N-D-S” by Marshmello & Anne-Marie
- “You’re Beautiful” by James Blunt
- “He Stopped Loving Her Today” by George Jones
- “Why Don’t You Love Me” by Beyoncé
- “Layla” by Derek and The Dominos
- “Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus
- “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” by The Police
- “Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains of Wayne
- “Johnny Angel” by Shelley Fabares
- “She’s Not Me” by Zara Larsson
- “Black” by Pearl Jam
- “Walking on Broken Glass” by Annie Lennox
- “Surrender” by Billy Talent
- “All I Wanted” by Paramore
- “Shiver” by Coldplay
- “Amnesia” by 5 Seconds of Summer
- “Hello” by Lionel Richie
- “The Heart of the Matter” by Don Henley
- “(Can’t Live Without Your) Love and Affection” by Nelson
- “What About Love” by Heart
- “Damn Good Friends” by Elle Varner
- “It Must Have Been Love” by Roxette
- “Kissing a Fool” by George Michael
- “Hard Habit to Break” by Chicago
- “Sitting, Waiting, Wishing” by Jack Johnson
- “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” by Michael Bolton
- “She’s Out of My Life” by Michael Jackson
- “Crying” by Roy Orbison
- “My Heart Can’t Tell You No” by Rod Stewart
- “I’ll Be True to You” by Oak Ridge Boys
- “Something I Can Never Have” by Nine Inch Nails
- “Stitches” by Shawn Mendes
- “The Last Worthless Evening” by Don Henley
- “Bleeding Love” by Leona Lewis
- “Just a Friend 2002” by Mario
- “You See Friends I See Lovers” by Westlife
- “Don’t You Want Me” by Human League
- “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers
- “Hot for Teacher” by Van Halen
- “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass
- “Don’t Pretend” by Khalid
- “Fingers” by Zayn
- “Heartache on the Dance Floor” by Jon Pardi
- “Hurt” by Lady A
- “I’m a Mess” by Bebe Rexha
- “If I Can’t Have You” by Shawn Mendes
- “Mercy” by Shawn Mendes
- “Somebody’s Heartbreak” by Hunter Hayes
- “She’s Like the Wind” by Patrick Swayze (Featuring Wendy Fraser)
- “Mickey” by Toni Basil
- “Speak Now” by Taylor Swift
- “What I Go to School For” by Busted
- “Cornerstone” by Arctic Monkeys
- “Need Ur Luv” by Charli XCX
- “I Want the One I Can’t Have” by The Smiths
- “You’ll Accomp’ny Me” by Bob Seger
- “One Fine Day” by The Chiffons
- “I’ll Wait” by Van Halen
- “Photograph” by Def Leppard
- “Marry Me” by Thomas Rhett
- “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton
- “Sometimes When We Touch” by Dan Hill
- “Roxanne” by The Police
- “Have You Ever Needed Someone” by Def Leppard
- “Good Thing” by Sam Smith
- “Weightless” by Arlo Parks
- “I Love You” by Billie Eilish
- “Bad Religion” by Frank Ocean
- “Disappear” by Beyoncé
- “I Hate U, I Love U” by Gnash (Featuring Olivia O’Brien)
- “There’s Your Trouble” by The Chicks
- “You’re Losing Me” by Taylor Swift
- “Dawns” by Zach Bryan
- “Emily I’m Sorry” by Boygenius
- “All I Want” by Olivia Rodrigo
- “Midnight Rain” by Taylor Swift
- “Jaded” by Miley Cyrus
- “I’m a Mess” by Avril Lavigne
- “Loser” by Charlie Puth
- “Daylight” by Harry Styles
- “So Good” by Halsey
- “When I’m Alone” by Post Malone
- “Is There Someone Else?” by The Weeknd
- “Me, Myself & I” by Seconds of Summer
- “I’d Lie” by Taylor Swift
- “Kids Are Born Stars” by Lauv
- “All For You” by Cian Ducrot
- “TV” by Billie Eilish
- “Little Bit” by Drake ft. Lykke Li
- “It Takes A Muscle” by M.I.A.
- “Just a Friend” by Biz Markie
- “Stone Cold” by Demi Lovato
- “Adore” by Cashmere Cat ft. Ariana Grande
- “Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak
- “Jar of Hearts” by Christina Perri
- “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M.
- “Habits (Stay High)” by Tove Lo
- “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
- “I’m Not That Girl” by Idina Menzel
- “Without Me” by Halsey
- “Can’t Keep on Loving You” by Elliott Yamin
- “Liability” by Lorde
- “Baby” by Justin Bieber featuring Ludacris
- “Are You Happy Now” by Michelle Branch
- “Tiny Vessels” by Death Cab for Cutie
- “Not Your Cinderella” by Payton Rae
- “No Idea” by Big Time Rush
- “Waiting in Vain” by Bob Marley
- “Notice Me” by Alli Simpson
- “Let It Go” by James Bay
- “I Don’t Know How to Tell You This” by Faith Ling
- “Tell Him” by Celine Dion featuring Barbara Streisand
- “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” by Al Green
- “Have You Ever” by Brandy
- “Dreaming with a Broken Heart” by John Mayer
- “How Do I Get There” by Deana Carter
- “Not Over You” by Gavin DeGraw
- “Could’ve Been” by H.E.R. featuring Bryson Tiller
- “You Don’t Know How Lucky You Are” by Keaton Henson
- “All to Myself” by Marianas Trench
- “When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars
- “Better Now” by Post Malone
- “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz
- “I Think I’m Still in Love with You” by Joyce Manor
- “Love Stinks” by The J. Geils Band
- “Just A Friend To You” by Meghan Trainor
- “Unrequited Love” by Yuna
- “You Are Not Alone” by Michael Jackson
- “Waiting Outside the Lines” by Greyson Chance
- “Nothin’ on You” by B.O.B. featuring Bruno Mars
- “The Girl of My Best Friend” by Elvis Presley
- “Warm Blood” by Carly Rae Jepsen
- “Closer Than You Might Believe” by Alanis Morissette
- “Anything Could Happen” by Ellie Goulding
- “Brass in Pocket” by The Pretenders
- “Like a Friend” by Pulp
- “Tears” by Clean Bandit featuring Louisa Johnson
- “Self Esteem” by The Offspring
