Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music: Ranking [2026]

CheerleaderOMI71rank/position

OMI – Cheerleader (Felix Jaehn Remix) (Official Video) [Ultra Records]

It’s a pop love song about how “she’s a cheerleader just for me, always there when I need her.” It’s not about unrequited love, but about affection for his girlfriend.

As the title “Cheerleader” suggests, it has a bright, encouraging tone, and as a woman, it makes me think, “I want the person I like to feel that way about me too, so I’ll do my best.”

ScientistColdplay72rank/position

Coldplay – The Scientist (Official 4K Video)

It’s a poignant song by Coldplay.

Both the melody and the lyrics are heartbreaking.

The airy, floating vocals really hit you in the heart.

The Japanese translation is excellent too, so why not look it up? The way it parallels scientific progress with the distance between people is also very moving.

Total Eclipse of the HeartBonnie Tyler73rank/position

Bonnie Tyler – Total Eclipse of the Heart (Turn Around) (Official Video)

“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.

into youAriana Grande74rank/position

Ariana Grande – Into You (Official Video)

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.

AlwaysBon Jovi75rank/position

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.

The One That Got AwayKaty Perry76rank/position

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.

Story Of My LifeOne Direction77rank/position

One Direction – Story of My Life

An emotional breakup song by the hugely popular boy group One Direction.

The song portrays the confusion of realizing that the life he had imagined with his girlfriend is gone, yet its refreshing melody conveys a sense of optimism, making it feel like a page from their youth that’s quintessentially them.