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] Feelings That Don’t Reach, Hearts Passing By… A Collection of Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music (101–110)

Return To SenderElvis Presley

Elvis Presley – Return To Sender [Video]

Return To SenderElvis Presley

It’s a 1962 single by Elvis Presley.

He keeps sending letters to his girlfriend after a fight, but they keep coming back for various reasons.

Knowing that, he still sends more letters.

It’s a poignant song that portrays a man who doesn’t want to accept the end of a romantic relationship.

Elvis performed this song in the film “Girls! Girls! Girls!”

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NICE GIRLSJaz Karis, Mahalia

Jaz Karis, Mahalia – NICE GIRLS (Official Lyric Video)

NICE GIRLSJaz Karis, Mahalia

A song whose wistful melody and striking lyrics seep into the heart.

The exquisite harmonies by Jaz Karis and Mahalia beautifully capture the pain and vulnerability of heartbreak.

Released in March 2024, this track stirs listeners with an emotional depth that transcends the boundaries of R&B.

Its sound, infused with elements of amapiano and Afropop, is equally captivating.

It’s a modern masterpiece that will resonate not only with those scarred by love, but with anyone struggling with relationships.

Music that stays by your side—perfect for low moments or solitary nights.

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StephenKe$ha

Ke$ha – Stephen

StephenKe$ha

Starting with a cappella, this song is about a boy who was stalking Kesha when she was 15.

Incorporating elements of country music, this dance-pop track is included on the 2010 album Animal.

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BoomerangPLAIN WHITE T’S

Plain White T’s – Boomerang

BoomerangPLAIN WHITE T'S

Plain White T’s is an American pop-punk band formed in 1997.

This song, which depicts the ups and downs of a troubled romance, is included on the album Wonders of the Younger.

It’s said to be a song that brings back memories of sweet first love and bittersweet unrequited feelings.

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She hates mePuddle of Mudd

Puddle of Mud – She hates me video ORIGINAL PITCH

She hates mePuddle of Mudd

A song from Puddle of Mudd’s 2002 album Come Clean.

It was inspired by the anger of Jimmy Allen’s then-girlfriend, who wanted him to quit being an “unsuccessful musician” and get a steady job.

After the band signed a record deal and became famous, she reportedly apologized to Jimmy.

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[2025] Unrequited Feelings, Hearts Passing Each Other… A Collection of Western Songs About Unfulfilled Love (111–120)

Can’t Fight This FeelingREO Speed Wagon

REO Speedwagon – Can’t Fight This Feeling (Official HD Video)

Can't Fight This FeelingREO Speed Wagon

A 1984 power ballad by the American rock band REO Speedwagon.

It sings of a man’s single-minded love to which he devotes his life.

Often described as a song about unrequited, one-sided love, it became a hit in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Ireland.

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Jessie’s GirlRIck Springfield

Rick Springfield – Jessie’s Girl (Official Video)

Jessie's GirlRIck Springfield

A 1981 hit by Australian singer Rick Springfield.

It’s a bittersweet song about an unrequited love—falling for a best friend’s girlfriend—written from Rick’s own experience.

The song reached No.

1 on the Billboard charts and also won a Grammy Award.

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