Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music: Ranking [2025]

What do you mean?Justin Bieber29rank/position

Justin Bieber – What Do You Mean?

Justin, who got a little carried away with his flirtations, returns a changed man in this bittersweet electronic track.

Its cool progression really makes you ponder what “What do you mean?” truly means.

His deep talent and clear vocals are especially popular with younger listeners.

Seeing how enthusiastically he appears in commercials, it seems he might have a fondness for Japan.

Fix YouColdplay30rank/position

Coldplay – Fix You (Official Video)

This is an unrequited love song by Coldplay that crafts a mystical worldview through sound design that, while rooted in rock, skillfully incorporates accessible pop sensibilities.

With its dazzling melody tinged with melancholy, it has become a beloved classic worldwide.

Hands To MyselfSelena Gomez31rank/position

Selena Gomez – Hands To Myself

This song captures a woman’s complex feelings: she loves someone, yet knows she mustn’t get involved.

Selena was in a relationship with Justin Bieber, and perhaps her own experiences are reflected here as well.

The suggestive lyrics invite the imagination to wander.

Let Me Love You (Until You Learn To Love Yourself)Ne-Yo32rank/position

Ne-Yo – Let Me Love You (Until You Learn To Love Yourself)

Ne-Yo, an American artist who showcases his rich talents widely as a singer-songwriter and producer.

This song is a love confession from a man to a woman whose heart has been hurt and closed off—he wants to teach her what true love is by loving her and bring back her smile.

It’s striking how he repeatedly sings “Let me love you,” conveying the man’s strong feelings throughout the track.

Two Out Of Three Ain’t BadMeat Loaf33rank/position

Meat Loaf – Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad (PCM Stereo)

A track that sings about unrequited love and the elusive nature of romance.

It was released in 1978 by the American musician Meat Loaf.

It became a hit in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and elsewhere, and has been covered by artists such as the Nitty Gritty Band and Julian Austin.

HelloLionel Richie34rank/position

Lionel Richie – Hello (Official Music Video)

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.

EmotionsMariah Carey35rank/position

Mariah Carey – Emotions

Among Mariah’s many songs, this track stands out as one of her signature hits and a go-to anthem for girls in love.

With her soaring vocals and those uniquely Mariah high notes, she delivers a crisp, uplifting performance that captures the giddy, floating feeling of falling in love.