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

Best Thing I Never HadBeyoncé

Beyoncé – Best Thing I Never Had (Video)

I don’t think a Japanese person could write this song.

It sounds like they’re thanking the person they broke up with, but they’re not at all—they’re casually throwing in words of resentment.

And yet there’s nothing messy about it, and in the end they thank God.

I think it’s interesting and a good song.

CreepRadiohead

Radiohead – Creep

A song that brought Radiohead’s existence to the wider public.

It’s relentlessly self-deprecating and suffused with a sense of despair.

At the end of the lyrics, she runs away, making it all the more heartbreaking.

The members of Radiohead aren’t very fond of this song, and they haven’t played it live at all in recent years.

People should know that even the cool Radiohead have songs like this about a hopeless guy.

MAGIC!Rude

MAGIC! – Rude (Official Video)

The lyrics are comical and funny.

The reggae rhythm is arranged in a pop style, making it very easy to listen to, and I’m sure many people got hooked on it.

The lyrics about wanting to get married but not getting the girlfriend’s father’s approval are just so amusing—it’s like reading a manga.

You’re beautifulJames Blunt

James Blunt – You’re Beautiful (Official Music Video) [4K]

It’s a very beautiful melody and a song that’s widely loved in 11 countries around the world.

It even became a hot topic in commercials.

But actually, it’s quite the heartbreak song.

The lyrics are about bumping into his girlfriend on the subway, and once you know that, the word “beautiful” somehow starts to feel a bit sad.

By the way, about the music video—it looks really cold.

It’s fine to watch in the heat of summer, but in winter it gives you a bit of a chill.

GirlThe Beatles

The Beatles – Girl

The Beatles’ lyrics grow deeper with each album.

This song from their mid-period album Rubber Soul tells its story in a narrative style, letting you sink into a simple, picture-book-like world.

Throughout, it’s achingly poignant and filled with wistful melancholy, yet it’s a highly polished track that never loses its charm no matter how many times you listen.

AlwaysBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – Always (Official Music Video)

Even a handsome guy like Jon Bon Jovi sings clingy, lovesick songs like this one, which makes him feel more relatable.

As a piece of music it’s excellent too—a cool track featuring his soaring vocals.

The music video is also brimming with Jon’s charm.

Somebody That I Used To KnowGotye

Gotye – Somebody That I Used To Know (feat. Kimbra) [Official Music Video]

I recommend this for people who want to listen to breakup songs but aren’t into overly elaborate lyrics.

The words are pretty straightforward, and the episodes are quite specific.

I’m sure these episodes are based on real experiences.

Once you understand the meaning, you’ll find yourself laughing.