Classic and popular songs about unrequited love

Unrequited lovemiwa

miwa 'Unrequited Love'

With a relaxed tempo, this unrequited love song conveys an overwhelming sense of sorrow, singing of the pain and sadness of harboring feelings for someone whose love will never be returned.

Though love is supposed to be free, it expresses the doubt of whether one is even allowed to fall for that person.

mayflyONE OK ROCK

mayfly

A ONE OK ROCK track that portrays the bittersweet feelings of unrequited love, where you can’t be honest even though you care so much.

The song likens the unspoken emotions flickering in one’s heart to a fragile heat haze that seems ready to vanish at any moment.

It conveys the unstable fear of admitting those feelings precisely because you love so much—so vividly that it tightens your chest.

This piece is included on their landmark first full-length album, “Zeitakubyo,” released in 2007.

For anyone struggling with a frustrating love, it’s a song that will gently stay by your side.

I want to be your lover.Abe Mao

Mao Abe – I Want to Be Your Lover [Official Music Video]

These lyrics are so relatable.

I think many of us have experienced regretting sending an email.

Her slightly husky voice even gives off a bit of a Shiina Ringo vibe.

The lyrics are cool, but make sure to pay attention to Mao Abe’s unique singing style as well.

NAOHY

SOLIDEMO / NAO（HY cover）

It’s a ballad that pierces the chest with the pain of unrequited love.

The song is included on HY’s 2006 album “Confidence,” by the Okinawa-born mix-genre band, and tells a story created by vocalist Izumi Nakasone based on a close friend’s real experience.

The piece vividly portrays the inner conflict of a woman who knows the person she likes has feelings for someone else and won’t return her affection, yet she just can’t give up.

The clear, airy vocals riding over the piano melody further highlight the sorrow of a love that won’t reach its destination.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who finds themselves empathizing with the urge to cling on, even as they sense the person they love slowly changing.

Too belovedKG with Tiara

KG / Too Beloved (duet with Tiara)

A duet by KG and Tiara.

The bittersweet lyrics sung in KG’s sweet voice feel like they squeeze your heart.

It’s a song about the sorrow of not being able to be with the one you love, and for some reason it makes you feel like you’re about to cry, so you’ll need a handkerchief.

It blends J-pop and hip-hop, making it easy for anyone to listen to.

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number

Back Number – Hanako-san on a High Pedestal

back number is incredibly popular.

Their song titles are unique.

Shimizu’s voice is soothing no matter when you listen.

Sometimes it even brings back an ’80s vibe, and at other moments it gives off a totally cool, contemporary feel.

The lyrics, in particular, are very modern.

Best Friend’s GirlSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / Best Friend’s Girl

Lyrics that somehow claw at your heart.

If you fall for your best friend, anyone would be confused.

When Sandaime J Soul Brothers sing it, it resonates even more.

They sing so well, and since it’s a genuine ballad, I think it’s easy for anyone to listen to.