![[2025] Western music songs that cheer on unrequited love: A roundup of classic tracks that speak to your feelings](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/TiMuT2BhwO0/maxresdefault.webp)
[2025] Western music songs that cheer on unrequited love: A roundup of classic tracks that speak to your feelings
“I can’t bring myself to confess my feelings…” In those moments of unrequited love, we often find ourselves seeking music to lean on.
In Western music, there are countless heartwarming classics that gently support the resolve to keep moving forward, even while carrying the same kinds of feelings.
In this article, we introduce timeless songs that can accompany your emotions: tracks that sing of wavering on the boundary between friendship and a crush, songs that tenderly embrace a bittersweet longing, and pieces that capture the pain and sadness of being unable to speak your heart.
You’re sure to find lyrics you can relate to and melodies that give you a gentle push forward.
[2025] Western music songs that support unrequited love: A roundup of classics that resonate with your feelings (1–10)
RiskNEW!Gracie Abrams
A song by Gracie Abrams that cheers on unrequited love, capturing both the risk and exhilaration of stepping into romance.
It portrays the precarious yet sweet impulse of being drawn to someone you barely know.
Nominated for the Best New Artist Grammy, she enlisted Aaron Dessner as producer; the track was released ahead of the album The Secret of Us in May 2024.
The lyrics vividly depict a protagonist who recognizes they’re rushing in but can’t stop their feelings.
In contrast to its uplifting pop melody, the words blend heartache with resolve.
It’s a piece that will surely give a push to anyone hesitating to take that first step in love.
From the StartNEW!Laufey
Laufey is an Icelandic singer-songwriter with roots in jazz and classical music.
This song is a bittersweet piece about unrequited love for a close friend.
Set to a lively, bossa nova–inspired rhythm, it captures the frustration of wanting to confess your feelings but being unable to, as well as the delicate emotions that rise and fall with every word from the other person.
The contrast between the bright sound and the aching lyrics is incredibly compelling.
Released in May 2023, the track was later included on the acclaimed album “Bewitched,” which went on to win at the 66th Grammy Awards.
It’s crafted to gently resonate with anyone struggling to move a relationship beyond friendship.
Can’t Blame A Girl For TryingNEW!Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter, who is also well-known as an actress from the Disney Channel.
Her memorable debut single is a cute, uplifting anthem that cheerfully affirms her clumsy approach to love.
Tripping up in front of her crush, trying too hard and missing the mark—yet telling herself, “Hey, I tried my best, so it’s okay!” The song beautifully captures the feelings of a girl who humorously encourages herself.
A lively acoustic guitar and sparkling glockenspiel add color to a poppy melody that further enhances the song’s optimistic worldview.
Released in March 2014, the track was included on the album Eyes Wide Open and won “Best Crush Song” at the Radio Disney Music Awards the following year.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who rides the emotional rollercoaster of a one-sided crush—a song that will surely give you that gentle push to try again.
into youNEW!Ariana Grande
Armed with overwhelming vocal power and a cute look, Ariana Grande continues to reign over the modern pop scene.
Featured on her third album, Dangerous Woman, this passionate dance track tells the story of a restless, urgent love—one that longs to end a frustrating, in-between relationship and become more intimate.
The protagonist’s strong desire to move things forward through actions rather than words rides on an electronic sound that lifts the listener’s spirits.
Also featured in the music game Just Dance 2017, this song may give a bold push to those with a crush who want to confess their feelings but can’t quite find the courage.
What About LoveNEW!Austin Mahone
Austin Mahone, who began his career by posting cover videos on YouTube.
This work is one of his early signature pieces.
It’s a very catchy dance-pop tune that evokes the boy bands of the ’90s.
However, in contrast to its bright sound, the lyrics express anxieties about a relationship falling apart, asking heartfelt questions like “What will happen to our love?” The melody beautifully captures the frustration of being unable to move beyond friendship, and his emotive vocals leave a strong impression.
Released in June 2013, the song was included on the EP “The Secret.” The music video even won an award at the MTV Video Music Awards that same year.
If you’re struggling with feelings about someone you care for, this song is sure to gently comfort your heart.
GrenadeNEW!Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, a singer-songwriter from Hawaii with overwhelming vocal prowess who keeps releasing hit songs, is known for his diverse musicality spanning pop, R&B, and funk.
This track, included on his debut album “Doo-Wops & Hooligans,” released in October 2010, topped the Billboard Hot 100.
The song portrays an achingly devoted unrequited love: even knowing there will be no reciprocation, the narrator vows to take on any pain for the other person.
Riding on powerful piano and beats, Bruno Mars’s commanding, almost cry-like vocals resonate deeply with the anguish of a one-way love.
When your heart feels like it’s about to burst from the frustration of being unable to confess your feelings, listening to this song might help you share that pain.
One Call AwayNEW!Charlie Puth
Singer-songwriter Charlie Puth, known for crafting numerous hits with catchy melodies.
This ballad from his debut album Nine Track Mind is a song that cheers on the bittersweet feelings of unrequited love.
The message that he’ll come running with just one phone call portrays a steadfast heart that longs to always be there for the one he loves.
Though he can’t be Superman, he wants to be your own personal hero—an emotional sentiment that really hits home.
Released in August 2015, the song was even nominated for Best Crush Song, making it a quintessential anthem for unrequited love.
With its warm sound, it’s a must-listen for anyone who hasn’t yet found the courage to confess their feelings.