Unrequited love breakup songs from Western music. World-famous classics and popular hits.

Don’t Look Back in AngerOasis

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)

He openly stated that the piano intro at the beginning was blatantly copied from John Lennon’s “Imagine.” The song was apparently written for a girlfriend Noel was dating at the time, but perhaps wanting to forget that, he later said it was a song for the fans.

Very much a him-type episode.

PayphoneMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Payphone ft. Wiz Khalifa (Lyric Video)

Even people who don’t listen to much Western music have probably heard the name Maroon 5.

In their hands—usually singing breezy songs about adult romance—even a breakup song becomes something refreshing and full of crisp coolness.

There’s nothing clingy about it even after being dumped; it’s truly refreshing.

Just a Friend to YouMeghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor – Just a Friend To You (Vevo Presents)

“Just a Friend to You,” sung by American artist Meghan Trainor.

Though its cheerful ukulele tones feel comforting, the song actually tells a bittersweet story of unrequited love—wishing to be more than “just friends.” You want to be lovers, but the other person only sees you as a friend… By pairing those frustrating feelings with an unapologetically bright melody, the poignancy hits even deeper.

Many of us know that sweet-yet-bitter experience of laughing beside the person we love as their “best friend,” while crying on the inside.

Let this song help you breezily get through the helpless ache of a one-sided crush!

Call Out My NameThe Weeknd

The Weeknd – Call Out My Name (Official Video)

This is a song by The Weeknd, a singer from Canada.

It expresses an unbreakable attachment and poignant lingering feelings toward a former partner.

Even while knowing she’s no longer his, he vows to drop everything if she ever calls for help—a one-sided devotion.

Such feelings, with nowhere to go, tighten the heart.

His vocals, like a cry from the soul, and the ethereal, beautiful melody pierce deeply into the chest.

Anyone who has suffered the pain of still thinking about someone even after the relationship has ended will likely empathize acutely with this feeling.

It might be a song that stays by your side until the very moment this love truly ends.

So SickNe-Yo

Ne-Yo – So Sick (Official Music Video)

Am I the only one who realizes that the lyrics of great Western pop songs often feature the telephone? They skillfully use the “phone” as a device to express longing and frustration.

Ne-Yo, in particular, is truly masterful at this.

As both a top-tier songwriter and producer, he’s blessed with talent and superb taste, and you can feel that vividly in this track.

Better NowPost Malone

Post Malone – Better Now (Official Video)

This is a song by American artist Post Malone about the lingering feelings for a former lover.

Even while putting on a brave face and saying “I’m fine without you,” the heart can’t help but keep thinking of that person—many of us have probably felt that way.

Despite its upbeat melody, the lyrics lay bare a painfully straightforward longing that tightens the chest.

An unforgettable love can be agonizing, but the experience of loving someone that deeply will surely help you grow.

Listen to “Better Now,” accept your feelings just once, and take your next step forward.

The One That Got AwayKaty Perry

Katy Perry – The One That Got Away (Official Music Video)

Rather than a heartbreak song, it’s closer to a memory song—or even a regret song.

The lyrics capture a very teenage vibe, about cutting loose and doing reckless things.

It’s poppy and easy to listen to, with an addictive hook that makes you want to sing it at karaoke.

The music video, which builds to a shocking ending, is a must-see.