Unrequited love songs in Western music recommended for men. World-famous classics and popular hits.
Even among unrequited love songs, there are works with a variety of characteristics—some have “poisonous” lyrics, while others feature very bright melodies.
In particular, Western music tends to have a wider range in this respect compared to Japanese music.
This time, we’ve picked out Western songs about unrequited love.
Even though they all fall under the same theme, the atmosphere and content vary greatly from track to track, so we also explain the lyrical themes and the background behind the songs’ creation.
If you’re currently experiencing unrequited love, you’ll likely find many songs you can relate to, so be sure to check them out!
Recommended Western one-sided love songs for men: World classics and popular tracks (1–10)
How Would You FeelEd Sheeran
This is a single by Ed Sheeran, famous for writing beautiful, moving lyrics.
It’s crafted as a love story.
When you listen to his music, I’d like you to focus not only on the melody but also on the lyrics.
His beautiful words will soothe you and enhance your romantic sensibilities.
You’re BeautifulJames Blunt
It’s a song released in 2005.
With this single, James Blunt was propelled to worldwide fame.
The music video feels a bit risky, but it’s a poignant song that stays by your side when you fall for someone who feels out of your league.
It helps you while you face your own wretchedness head-on.
See You Again ft. Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa
Many of you have probably heard this as a song from the movie Fast & Furious.
Matching the film’s theme, it’s crafted as a farewell song to someone you’ll never meet again, someone dear to you.
Its heartrending melody brings tears to your eyes.
Recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in that bittersweet feeling.
GrenadeBruno Mars
Bruno Mars’s signature song “Grenade” dynamically expresses the weight of love.
Since its 2010 release, it has enjoyed enduring popularity.
The track is marked by passionate vocals and a powerful melody.
Its lyrics, which portray unrequited love through grand metaphors, are especially striking.
The raw emotion hits hard, so it might really resonate with men struggling with the dilemma of unrequited feelings.
The song’s emotional atmosphere has a once-heard, never-forgotten allure.
Without YouDavid Guetta
As the title “Without You” suggests, a male vocalist sings with aching emotion.
It’s a song about a love that leaves him feeling so powerless he believes he can’t do anything without you.
Despite the theme, the tune is pop, making it a track you can listen to without it feeling overly sad.
Bad ReligionFrank Ocean
“Bad Religion,” by American R&B singer Frank Ocean, is often hailed as a true classic.
Featured on his 2012 album Channel Orange, the song is marked by a melody that truly tugs at the heartstrings.
It delicately portrays the struggle between the sorrow of unrequited love and faith.
Set in a piano-driven ballad style, the sound interweaves Ocean’s vocals with a soulful melody, gripping the listener’s emotions.
It’s a piece I especially recommend to those experiencing unrequited love or anyone wrestling with feelings of romance.
Memphis ft. Big SeanJustin Bieber
Memphis ft.
Big Sean, which vividly portrays the pain and longing of unrequited love, is a memorable collaboration between Justin Bieber and Big Sean.
Featured on the 2013 album Journals, the song is supported by a bright melody and an engaging beat, giving it a catchy quality that lingers.
In particular, the desire to spend the whole night together conveys a pure feeling that anyone can relate to.