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

Heartbreak AnniversaryGiveon

GIVĒON – Heartbreak Anniversary (Official Music Video)

Giveon, an American R&B singer born in 1995, has been drawing attention for his baritone voice and jazz-influenced musical style.

“Heartbreak Anniversary,” a single from his debut EP Take Time released on February 21, 2020, uniquely portrays the pain of heartbreak and its one-year mark.

The song quietly yet deeply retraces the memories of a lost love.

It’s a work that showcases Giveon’s delicate storytelling and vocal allure, and it will likely serve as a source of empathy and comfort for those who have experienced heartbreak.

Especially when your heart feels cracked, you can sense the quiet strength this song brings.

I Remember Everything (feat. Kacey Musgraves)Zach Bryan

Zach Bryan – I Remember Everything (feat. Kacey Musgraves)

Zach Bryan, a singer-songwriter from Oklahoma, is known for his moving songs rooted in country, Americana, and folk.

A standout track from his latest self-titled album, released on August 25, 2023, is “I Remember Everything.” The song features Kacey Musgraves, whose collaboration brings out a striking harmony between the two.

It achieved remarkable popularity, debuting at No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100.

Lyrically, it poetically and delicately reflects on past love—lost time, memories, and the deep marks they leave on the heart.

Zach Bryan’s rich emotional expression blends with Kacey Musgraves’s clear, translucent voice, drawing listeners into the pain of heartbreak and the complex emotions that accompany it.

It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to process a finished relationship or seeking a sense of empathy.

When I Was Your ManBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – When I Was Your Man (Official Music Video)

Bruno Mars, a multitalented artist from Hawaii, delivered a heartfelt portrayal of regret over lost love and the depth of his feelings in his major hit “When I Was Your Man” from his 2012 album Unorthodox Jukebox.

Accompanied by a simple piano arrangement, Mars’s emotive vocals resonate powerfully, making this song a memorable classic for many listeners.

In particular, for those who have experienced heartbreak or reflect on past choices, the track evokes strong empathy.

Through Mars’s soulful voice, his apology to the one he loved and his pure wish for her happiness come through clearly.

The bittersweet yet beautiful melody strikes a deep chord with listeners, making it easy to understand why this song is so beloved.

All Too WellTaylor Swift

All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault) (Lyric Video)

When it comes to indisputable top stars, Taylor Swift is also known as a master of breakup songs, backed by her rich romantic experiences.

In particular, All Too Well, included on the album Red, is celebrated as a masterpiece that candidly portrays the pain of heartbreak.

Released in 2012 and later re-recorded in 2021 as part of Red (Taylor’s Version), the song stands as one of her signature works.

Its meticulous emotional detail strikes deeply at the listener’s heart.

The “red scarf” that appears in the lyrics, which depict post-breakup feelings, became a hot topic among fans as a symbol of a past love.

This song offers solace to those carrying the sadness and lingering attachment that follow the end of a relationship.

Said to have been inspired by her relationship with Jake Gyllenhaal, the piece may help heal the deep wounds of heartbreak.

If I Ain’t Got YouAlicia Keys

Alicia Keys – If I Ain’t Got You (Official HD Video)

Alicia Keys’s smash hit “If I Ain’t Got You.” From the intro to her uniquely expressive voice, it’s a work with tremendous impact.

It’s a soulful, sophisticated track—almost beyond what you’d imagine from her now.

Though it’s a breakup song, the melody is incredibly powerful.

The verse lines, with melodies that evoke jazz, convey that everyone sees things differently.

The chorus basically says, “More than anything, I want you,” and the lyrics and melody match perfectly.

It’s a wonderful song.

Closer ft. HalseyThe Chainsmokers

The Chainsmokers – Closer (Lyric) ft. Halsey

This is their smash hit that became the catalyst for their huge popularity in Japan.

The way the lyrics about an unrequited love match the sound is so perfect it makes your heart ache.

In any case, you won’t be able to take your eyes off their music from here on out! There’s no doubt they’ll keep cranking out hit after hit.

If you’re not into them yet, start with this song! You’ll be pulled into their world and won’t be able to escape!

When You’re GoneAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – When You’re Gone (Official Video)

Avril Lavigne is a singer-songwriter who’s also popular in Japan.

“When You’re Gone” is a single from her 2007 album The Best Damn Thing.

Many people may associate her music with a cute, poppy image, and this song pleasantly defies that expectation.

It’s a breakup song that vividly portrays a woman’s aching heart.

The lyrics are incredibly catchy, so be sure to check it out.