[2025] Best Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music for Women

Baby IAriana Grande

Ariana Grande – Baby I (Official Video)

“Baby I,” the second single from Ariana Grande’s debut album “Yours Truly,” released in 2013, is one of the most memorable songs in her musical career.

This upbeat track blends pop and R&B elements, showcasing Ariana’s wide vocal range and remarkable singing ability.

In “Baby I,” the frustration of unrequited love and powerful affection are expressed, and the lyrics convey deep emotions that can’t be easily put into words.

The overwhelming love Ariana feels—so strong it defies expression—resonates with the feelings many women experience in one-sided love.

This song is especially recommended for those struggling with love or hoping someone will notice the feelings they can’t bring themselves to express.

Ariana Grande’s delicate yet powerful vocals will touch listeners’ hearts and reveal the true value of love.

ProblemAriana Grande

Ariana Grande – Problem ft. Iggy Azalea

This song lets you fully appreciate Ariana Grande’s outstanding vocal prowess, earning her the nickname “the second coming of Mariah Carey.” It portrays the pain of being unable to move on from a one-sided crush—even while knowing that person is no good—because you still can’t help but love them.

RiskNEW!Gracie Abrams

Gracie Abrams – Risk (Official Music Video)

A song by Gracie Abrams that cheers on unrequited love, capturing both the risk and exhilaration of stepping into romance.

It portrays the precarious yet sweet impulse of being drawn to someone you barely know.

Nominated for the Best New Artist Grammy, she enlisted Aaron Dessner as producer; the track was released ahead of the album The Secret of Us in May 2024.

The lyrics vividly depict a protagonist who recognizes they’re rushing in but can’t stop their feelings.

In contrast to its uplifting pop melody, the words blend heartache with resolve.

It’s a piece that will surely give a push to anyone hesitating to take that first step in love.

IrresponsibleKiana Ledé

Kiana Ledé – Irresponsible (Official Music Video)

Kiana Ledé, an R&B singer-songwriter from Arizona with a multifaceted background, released her single “Irresponsible” on September 16, 2022.

The song centers on the theme of emotional infidelity and portrays the pain of unrequited love alongside a journey of self-growth.

Its appeal lies in the nuanced emotional expression of the pain women may feel in unrequited love and the growth that comes as things draw to a close.

The lyrics also emphasize the importance of learning from mistakes and moving forward.

“Irresponsible” is likely to resonate with and encourage women experiencing unrequited love, as well as anyone working through emotional ups and downs.

The music itself is rhythmic and captivating, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

Experience Kiana Ledé’s rich, compelling vocals and her sincere exploration of love.

Love You Like a Love SongSelena Gomez & The Scene

Selena Gomez & The Scene – Love You Like A Love Song

Formed in the United States in 2008, Selena Gomez & The Scene, a group under Selena Gomez’s alternate moniker, quickly gained immense popularity especially among young people despite their brief period of activity.

“Love You Like a Love Song,” the second single from their album When The Sun Goes Down, was released in 2011 and became a beloved track worldwide with its catchy melody and sweet atmosphere.

This song particularly resonates with women who feel the spark of a fresh romance or who are in the midst of a bittersweet crush.

Its lyrics, which carry a magical pull that makes you want to hit repeat, capture both the sweetness and the sting of unrequited love, evoking a sense of both transience and strength.

For women yearning for love yet troubled by feelings that may not be returned, Selena Gomez’s catchy refrain offers encouragement.

May the power of music lighten even a little of that heavy heart.

LovefoolThe Cardigans

The Cardigans – Lovefool (Official Music Video)

Lovefool by the Swedish band The Cardigans is a classic song that poignantly yet sweetly captures the theme of unrequited love.

Released as the lead single from their 1996 album First Band on the Moon, it became a global hit.

Its use in the film Romeo + Juliet drew even more attention.

The song skillfully portrays the complex emotions of a woman in one-sided love; even if her feelings aren’t returned, the lyrics convey her longing simply to be by his side.

The band’s energetic pop sound and Nina Persson’s clear, crystalline vocals elevate this brisk yet profound track.

It’s a timeless tune recommended for every woman who knows the ache and hope of unrequited love.

WeightlessArlo Parks

Arlo Parks – Weightless (Official Video)

Arlo Parks is a British singer-songwriter born in 2000, known for the delicate depth of her lyrical world.

Her track “Weightless” from the May 2023 album My Soft Machine has been drawing attention for its meticulous depiction of the anguish and conflict of unrequited love.

The song tenderly yet beautifully sings of the heartache of holding on to feelings that can’t be returned.

In Arlo’s lyrics, the pain of a lack of affection is portrayed with sensitivity, even as the narrator finds herself unable to let go of the person she loves.

It’s a song I’d recommend not only to women experiencing unrequited love, but to anyone who resonates with love in its many forms.

Take your time with it and listen while reflecting on your own experiences.