Lovely love song

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

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Musicians who are attuned to the complex movements of emotion we experience in life often share their own experiences with listeners in the form of songs.

It’s not uncommon to find lyrics that describe almost the exact same experience you’ve had—so much so that it hurts to relate.

This time, we’ve picked songs that portray unrequited love and the unresolved feelings that follow a breakup, compiling them across eras and genres—from the latest hits to timeless classics.

Many of these tracks express sadness in a straightforward way, so try listening while reflecting on your own feelings.

[2025] Unrequited Feelings, Hearts Missing Each Other… A Compilation of Unattainable Love Songs in Western Music (91–100)

El ScorchoWeezer

Weezer – El Scorcho (Director’s Cut)

El ScorchoWeezer

A 1996 song by the American alternative rock band Weezer.

It was more popular in Australia than in their home country of the United States.

The lyrics, which include phrases like “Green Day” and “Madame Butterfly,” convey the earnestness of a man experiencing unrequited love.

Raise the rankinglower

Stone ColdDemi Lovato

Demi Lovato – Stone Cold (Official Video)

Stone ColdDemi Lovato

Listening to her song reminds me of Adele’s “Someone Like You.

” Their voices are similar, and both vocalists have truly amazing voices.

The title suggests accepting an unrequited love with emotions as cold as stone… That’s how I interpret it.

It’s heartbreaking.

Her high notes further convey the cry of a sorrowful heart—what a masterpiece!

Raise the rankinglower

Say GoodbyeChris Brown

Chris Brown – Say Goodbye (Official HD Video)

Say GoodbyeChris Brown

Released in 2006, this is a poignant hit song.

It was also used as a movie theme in the United States, and the slightly lonely melody paired with Chris’s sweet voice is indescribably good.

If someone sang about unrequited love in a voice like that… it would be irresistible, right? His clear, transparent vocals make the track even more captivating.

A highly recommended classic.

Raise the rankinglower

end gameCat Burns

end game

end gameCat Burns

Cat Burns, who is drawing attention on the pop music scene beyond the bounds of contemporary R&B, is also known for songs that often use romantic experiences as a motif.

This track, included on the album “Early Twenties” set for release on April 26, 2024, centers on the end of a relationship and its emotional impact.

Incorporating gospel and guitar elements, it achieves a deft balance between pop and R&B.

It portrays a couple who did their best but still couldn’t make it work, skillfully conveying the pain and turmoil brought on by a breakup.

It’s poised to become a new classic heartbreak song that will resonate deeply with listeners.

Raise the rankinglower

I Don’t Think That I Like HerCharlie Puth

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

I Don't Think That I Like HerCharlie Puth

A song that masterfully weaves the complexities of love into an emotional and striking melody.

Charlie Puth’s clear, airy vocals vividly portray the pain and conflict of heartbreak.

Released in September 2022, the track is included on the album “Charlie” and was co-written with Jacob Kasher Hindlin and others.

It captures the feeling of being tired of the dating game and losing hope for new connections—sentiments that will especially resonate with anyone who’s been hurt in love.

Seamlessly blending pop and R&B elements, this piece is perfect for listening alone in quiet reflection.

Raise the rankinglower

Car’s OutsideJames Arthur

James Arthur – Car’s Outside (Official Lyric Video)

Car's OutsideJames Arthur

This ballad, which portrays the heartache of a long-distance relationship, was released in 2019 alongside James Arthur’s soul-stirring vocals.

The lyrics, depicting the poignant feelings of lovers suffering from physical distance, resonate with many listeners.

The phrase “there’s a car waiting outside” symbolically expresses the moment of parting, conveying a desperate wish not to be separated from a loved one.

James’s emotive singing further enhances the song’s appeal.

It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone longing for a distant partner.

Raise the rankinglower

Happiest YearJaymes Young

Jaymes Young – Happiest Year [Official Music Video]

Happiest YearJaymes Young

This work by James Young, who has created numerous songs about heartrending farewells, is a gem of a ballad that sings of gratitude for a lost love.

Since its 2019 release, it has continued to move many listeners and stands as a celebrated track released as a solo work following the album Feel Something.

James distills the value of irreplaceable moments—realized only after loss—into 3 minutes and 48 seconds, conveying that profound feeling to us through music.

Even when everything is gone, it encourages us to face forward with the courage to cherish the happiness we once felt.

It’s a recommended song for those who want to envelop what they’re losing in love, or for anyone carrying hidden feelings in their heart.

Raise the rankinglower