[2025] Unrequited feelings, hearts out of sync… A collection of Western songs about impossible love

The Day You Went AwayM2M

M2M – The Day You Went Away (Official Music Video)

Here’s an introduction to The Day You Went Away by M2M.

The intro starts with guitar arpeggios, and the kick and bass really stand out.

It features a fairly high female vocal, and I think it’s an easy song to listen to.

If you’ve just gone through a breakup, it might be a bit tough—but it might also help you bounce back.

My DilemmaSelena Gomez

Selena Gomez & The Scene – My Dilemma 2.0 (Audio Only)

Known as the lead actress of the American TV show “Wizards of Waverly Place,” Selena Gomez brings us this track from her pop band, Selena Gomez & The Scene.

Driven by a four-on-the-floor kick drum typical of pop bands, the song gives off a kind of defiant vibe—like saying, “I’m done being jerked around.” If you’re thinking, “I love you, but this hurts and I’ve had enough!!,” give it a listen and blow away your current mood.

Every Little Thing She Does Is MagicThe Police

The Police – Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic (Official Music Video)

Featuring the piano, this song followed its hit success in the UK by reaching No.

3 on the Billboard charts in the United States.

It’s a love song by The Police that portrays the cute feelings of a man with a crush and an escape driven by anxiety.

I Don’t Owe You AnythingThe Smiths

The Smiths – I Don’t Owe You Anything – Live

A song distinguished by Morrissey’s splendid lyrics and Johnny Marr’s perfect, atmospheric guitar riffs.

It’s a sentimental track that defines meaningless, unrequited love, included on the 1984 debut album The Smiths.

Lie To Me5 Seconds of Summer

5 Seconds of Summer – Lie To Me

An emotional song that weaves themes of lies and sincerity in human relationships was included by the Australian pop-rock band 5 Seconds of Summer on their June 2018 album, Youngblood.

Tenderly portraying a sad love story, the track gently expresses the protagonist’s poignant wish for an ex-lover to tell them “I love you,” even if it’s a lie, carried by a melancholic vocal delivery.

In December, a duet version with singer-songwriter Julia Michaels was released, delving even deeper into lingering feelings and inner conflict toward a loved one.

As a heartwarming mid-tempo ballad that stays close to those suffering from heartbreak, this song has comforted many listeners.

I Can’t Make You Love MeBonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt – I Can’t Make You Love Me

Here’s an introduction to Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” It begins with a gentle, unhurried intro, then leads into a mood-lifting progression before the chorus that resonates beautifully, making it a truly pleasant listen.

There’s a sense of comfort that’s hard to put into words—please give it a listen.

All She KnowsBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – All She Knows (Lyrics on Screen)

Here’s a recommendation from the R&B singer who’s been the talk of the town lately, Bruno Mars.

The song is straight-up in its vibe and tone—achingly bittersweet.

While admitting his own shortcomings and sense of inadequacy, he’s burning with the desire to show the one he loves what true love really is.

For anyone in a similar situation, this track will likely hit you right in the heart.