Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music: Ranking [2025]

I Don’t Think That I Like HerCharlie Puth50rank/position

Charlie Puth – I Don’t Think That I Like Her (Official Audio)

“I Don’t Think That I Like Her,” sung by Charlie Puth from the United States, portrays the complex emotions of becoming hesitant about new love due to being hurt in past relationships.

Despite its up-tempo melody, the lyrics express a bittersweet feeling of sealing off one’s emotions with the thought, “Maybe I don’t like her anymore.” Out of fear of being hurt the same way again, he holds back and keeps some distance.

However, if you suppress your current feelings because of past pain, you’ll likely regret it.

Like this song suggests, perhaps the best thing is to accept your wavering heart just as it is.

Notice MeAlli Simpson51rank/position

Alli Simpson – Notice Me [Official Video]

When you think of breakup songs, many people probably imagine acoustic tracks with a sad vibe.

However, this song by Alli Simpson is a positive breakup anthem, pairing an upbeat feel with a message of “I’ll never give up.” The lyric “I’ll do anything to make you turn around and notice me” is empowering just to listen to.

You sent me flyingAmy Winehouse52rank/position

Amy Winehouse – You sent me flying

A song about her feelings toward the ex-boyfriend who broke Amy Winehouse’s heart.

Amy was known for dedicating this song in concerts to “those who have loved someone who didn’t love you.” It was released in the UK as a double A-side single together with ‘In My Bed.

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I think about youAustin & Ally53rank/position

Austin & Ally | Think About You Song | Official Disney Channel UK

A song by Austin & Ally that portrays sweet, bittersweet feelings of love.

It captures the heartache of unrequited love—when you can’t help thinking about your crush all day long.

Featured in the Disney Channel TV series “Austin & Ally,” this track served as the theme song for the popular show that aired from December 2011 to January 2016.

The lyrics depict thinking about someone from the moment you wake up until you fall asleep, a sentiment sure to resonate with anyone experiencing one-sided love.

It’s a recommended track not only for teenage girls struggling with romance, but also for adults who want to bask in a bit of nostalgia.

Bad ReligionFrank Ocean54rank/position

Bad Religion

This is a song by American artist Frank Ocean that likens unrequited love for someone he can never be with to a “bad religion.” Structured as a confession to a taxi driver, the lyrics ache as he sings that his feelings for the other person are like a kind of faith.

Even knowing it won’t be returned, the inner conflict of loving as if in prayer will resonate painfully with anyone who’s been there.

Set against a solemn soundscape, his candid monologue conveys the helpless loneliness and sanctity of this love.

Perhaps that anguish is something no one else can truly understand.

I’m a MessBebe Rexha55rank/position

I’m a Mess

American singer-songwriter Bebe Rexha is known not only as a vocalist but also for writing many songs.

This track is included on her 2018 album Expectations, released as a singer.

Her distinctive voice and candid, straightforward lyrics about seeking love are likely to hook many listeners after just one play.

Memphis ft. Big SeanJustin Bieber56rank/position

Memphis

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.