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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!

Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music Recommended for Men: World Classics and Popular Hits (11–20)

Stacy’s MomFountains of Wayne

Fountains Of Wayne – Stacy’s Mom (Official Music Video)
Stacy's MomFountains of Wayne

Fountains of Wayne’s “Stacy’s Mom,” which became a massive hit in the mid-2000s, is a classic that brilliantly captures the tension of unrequited love.

Its disarmingly vivid lyrics have resonated with many teenage boys since its 2003 release.

The unique premise—falling for your childhood friend’s mother—surely helped propel the song to extraordinary popularity.

Pop-culture references sprinkled throughout, drawn from comics and films, also tickle listeners’ imaginations.

If you’re wrestling with a crush, this track might just offer a fresh perspective on those feelings.

HelloLionel Richie

Lionel Richie – Hello (Official Music Video)
HelloLionel Richie

Lionel Richie’s “Hello” can be called a pinnacle of romantic unrequited-love songs from the ’80s.

Although it was released in 1984, its sentimental melody has never faded and continues to capture the hearts of many.

The searing emotions of unrequited love in this song evoke a sense of deep affection and quiet longing.

The bittersweet feelings of a man who can only gaze at a woman he lacks the courage to speak to are expressed through Richie’s approachable vocals and convincing lyrics, moving listeners with his sincere message.

Alongside the ache of unrequited love, the song also conveys a glimmer of hope, making it a timeless classic that resonates with both men and women.

WeightlessArlo Parks

Arlo Parks – Weightless (Official Video)
WeightlessArlo Parks

Arlo Parks’s track “Weightless” vividly portrays unwavering feelings and the inner conflicts they bring.

Melancholic yet melodic, the song’s arrangement gently cradles the sweet-and-bitter emotions of unrequited love.

Released on May 26, 2023, it quietly stays close to the listener’s heart and sketches an introspective world.

Its delicate lyrics—blending a longing for deep affection with the ache of feelings that can’t reach their destination—will especially resonate with male listeners experiencing one-sided love.

By listening closely to the story Arlo Parks has crafted and overlaying it with your own experiences, you may discover a deepened, newfound sense of emotion.

CAN’T GET OVER YOUJoji ft. Clams Casino

Joji ft. Clams Casino – CAN’T GET OVER YOU
CAN'T GET OVER YOUJoji ft. Clams Casino

George, a musician born in Osaka who spread his wings to the world.

His music career began with success on YouTube, and he later became known for profound tracks within the music scene.

One of his signature songs is CAN’T GET OVER YOU.

This track skillfully captures a muddled, restless feeling and slips gently into your heart in unguarded moments.

It’s also featured on his 2018 album BALLADS 1, showcasing George’s evolving artistry.

While it resonates with the solitary feelings of male listeners, it’s a precious song in which the pain of heartbreak transforms into a tender, warm sense of solace.

What It TakesAerosmith

Aerosmith’s timeless classic “What It Takes,” released in 1989, has continued to resonate with listeners and remains a beloved song.

It poignantly captures the heartache of unrequited love, making it a highly recommended Western song for men.

While toning down their signature blues-based hard rock, the track shifts from a country-tinged sound toward a more rock-oriented approach, with the special flavor of an accordion added in.

The result is a song that conveys both the pain of heartbreak and the strength to move forward.

The protagonist’s inability to hide his lingering feelings comes through vividly, so if you’re experiencing unrequited love, be sure to give it a listen.

Not In That WaySam Smith

“Not In That Way,” included on Sam Smith’s album In the Lonely Hour released on May 26, 2014.

In this work, Sam Smith’s vulnerable yet passionate vocals convey the delicate but profound emotions of unrequited love.

The simple, piano-only accompaniment highlights his aching voice and slowly etches itself into the listener’s heart.

So when you listen to this song, you might want to sit down, brace yourself, and be ready to dive deep into your emotions.

This ballad, which portrays the bittersweet feelings experienced by a man, likely resonates strongly with many male listeners.

Recommended Western unrequited love songs for men: World classics and popular tracks (21–30)

Take CareDrake

Drake – Take Care ft. Rihanna
Take CareDrake

This is a love song produced by Drake, who was hailed as a rising star in the hip-hop scene.

Released in 2011, it was included on his second album.

It can be considered one of his signature songs, and it was created through a collaboration with Rihanna.