Tear-jerking unrequited love songs in Western music: recommended classics and popular tracks

AdoreCashmere Cat ft. Ariana Grande

Cashmere Cat – Adore (Audio) ft. Ariana Grande

A collaboration between Norwegian DJ and producer Cashmere Cat and American singer Ariana Grande.

It samples Masters at Work’s 1991 track “The Ha Dance (Pumpin’ Dubb).” Featuring breakbeats and falsetto vocals, the track became a hit in countries including the United States and Belgium.

Here comes my babyCat Stevens

Here Comes My Baby (Stereo Version)

A jazzy, melancholic track written in London by British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens.

It was also released in 1967 by The Tremeloes, who had been Brian Poole’s backing band.

The track was used in the film Rushmore.

ShiverColdplay

Coldplay – Shiver (Official Video)

A track released in 2000 by the British rock band Coldplay.

It is said that frontman Chris Martin wrote the track inspired by Australian singer Natalie Imbruglia and a girlfriend he dated in his early twenties.

I want youElvis Costello

Elvis Costello – I want you

A post-punk track released in 1986 by British singer-songwriter Elvis Costello.

It features dark lyrics depicting a sad relationship and a simple guitar solo that repeats dissonant notes.

The track has been covered by Lydia Lunch & Cypress Grove.

One For My Baby (and One More for the Road)Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra – One For My Baby (Live At Royal Festival Hall / 1962)

Originally a melancholic track performed by Fred Astaire in the 1943 musical “The Sky’s the Limit.” It has been recorded by many artists, including Bing Crosby and Iggy Pop.

The most famous version by Frank Sinatra was released in 1954.

IrisGoo Goo Dolls

Goo Goo Dolls – Iris [Official Music Video] [4K Remaster]

A love song about wanting to confess a hidden feeling while simultaneously fearing the consequences.

It was released in 1998 by the American alternative rock band Goo Goo Dolls.

The song was used in the film City of Angels and has been covered by artists such as Ronan Keating.

ApologiesGrace Potter and The Nocturnals

Grace Potter &The Nocturnals-Apologies

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals is an American rock band active since 2002.

This track is included on their 2007 album “This Is Somewhere.” It was used in TV dramas such as Kyle XY, One Tree Hill, and Brothers & Sisters.