Hidden gems of unrequited love songs in Western music. Recommended popular tracks.
When you can’t quite express your feelings to someone you like, or when you’ve told them but it isn’t going well, what do you do?
I’ve gathered classic Western songs themed around unrequited love across different ages for those struggling with all kinds of crushes.
If you look into the lyrics’ meanings, you might discover charms you won’t find in Japanese songs!
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Hidden gems of one-sided-love songs in Western music. Recommended popular tracks (1–10)
Words get in the wayGloria Estefan
“Words Get In The Way” is a song by Miami Sound Machine, and it peaked at No.
5 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Gloria Estefan, the vocalist of Miami Sound Machine, is a multitalented artist who excels in Latin music, upbeat tracks, and ballads.
Close To YouGracie Abrams
An unforgettable blend of aching vocals and heart-stirring lyrics—this song captures the pain of unrequited love.
Even though the person she likes doesn’t even know her name, the overwhelming desire to give everything surges from the heart.
The sorrow of going unnoticed and the conflict of wanting to get closer but being unable to are portrayed beautifully.
Gracie Abrams wrote this song when she was 16 and released it in June 2024 after seven years, responding to fervent requests from fans.
She’s also scheduled for a U.S.
tour in the fall, with even greater success anticipated.
It’s a must-listen not only for those struggling with one-sided love but also for anyone who wants to understand the feelings of being in love.
Let’s Wait AwhileJanet Jackson
“Let’s Wait Awhile” is a slow ballad by Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson’s sister.
In Japan, it was released under the title “Isogasanaide” (Don’t Rush Me), and the lyrics convey a message about lovers taking a little distance from each other.
Hidden gems of unrequited love songs in Western music. Recommended popular tracks (11–20)
FaithfullyJourney
“Faithfully” is a song by Journey, and it is the fifth track on the album “Frontiers.” Its Japanese title is “Toki e no Chikai” (A Vow to Time).
I’m captivated by lead vocalist Steve Perry’s expansive, husky voice.
Change Of HeartWendy Moten
“Change Of Heart” is a song by American singer Wendy Moten.
In Japan, the track was released by Toshiba EMI on February 15, 1995.
It’s a song that makes your heart dance with Wendy Moten’s angelic, clear, and beautiful voice.
Total Eclipse of the HeartBonnie Tyler
“Total Eclipse of the Heart” is a song by Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler.
In Japan, the title is “Ai no Kageri.” The song became a No.
1 hit in the United Kingdom.
AloneHeart
“Alone” is a song by the rock band HEART, which centers on the sisters Ann Wilson and Nancy Wilson.
HEART was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.
The song also reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts in 1987.