Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music: Ranking [2026]

Say SomethingA Great Big World85rank/position

A Great Big World, Christina Aguilera – Say Something (Official Video)

It’s a story where the protagonist asks their love interest to say something, but receives no reply.

Despite the bittersweet lyrics, the beautiful vocals and harmonies are incredibly soothing, making it a song you can’t help but be enchanted by from beginning to end.

I Don’t Want to Miss a ThingAerosmith86rank/position

Aerosmith – I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing (Official HD Video)

It’s a song that became globally famous as the theme of the movie Armageddon and turned into a hit.

His voice brings a surge of bittersweet emotion.

At the same time, it makes me realize how my feelings for the one I love grow stronger day by day.

It reminds us not only of the outcome, but also of the strength and depth of our feelings for someone.

Right Here WaitingRichard Marx87rank/position

Richard Marx – Right Here Waiting (Official Music Video)

“Right Here Waiting” is a ballad by Richard Marx and is included on his album “Repeat Offender.” The song reached the prestigious No.

1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a major hit, charting in the United States and other countries.

When You Were YoungAdele88rank/position

Adele – When We Were Young (Live at The Church Studios)

In this song, the protagonist suggests, even just a little, that they might talk with someone incredibly charismatic.

Just seeing this person makes them feel like they’re in a movie—someone like that isn’t easy to find, right?

IrisGoo Goo Dolls89rank/position

Goo Goo Dolls – Iris [Official Music Video] [4K Remaster]

A love song about wanting to confess a hidden feeling while simultaneously fearing the consequences.

It was released in 1998 by the American alternative rock band Goo Goo Dolls.

The song was used in the film City of Angels and has been covered by artists such as Ronan Keating.

Better NowPost Malone90rank/position

Post Malone – Better Now

This is a song by American artist Post Malone about the lingering feelings for a former lover.

Even while putting on a brave face and saying “I’m fine without you,” the heart can’t help but keep thinking of that person—many of us have probably felt that way.

Despite its upbeat melody, the lyrics lay bare a painfully straightforward longing that tightens the chest.

An unforgettable love can be agonizing, but the experience of loving someone that deeply will surely help you grow.

Listen to “Better Now,” accept your feelings just once, and take your next step forward.

drivers licenseOlivia Rodrigo91rank/position

Olivia Rodrigo – drivers license (Official Video)

Olivia Rodrigo is an American singer-songwriter born in 2003, and her debut single “drivers license,” released in January 2021, became a worldwide hit right out of the gate.

It’s a piano-based ballad distinguished by its emotionally stirring lyrics.

The song portrays the pain of unrequited love and a journey of self-discovery, and its lyricism resonated with many young people.

It’s especially recommended for women struggling with their first love, or for moments when you want to immerse yourself in bittersweet memories of romance.

Rodrigo’s vocals are both powerful and delicate, capturing subtle shades of feeling, making this the perfect track for spending a long, cold night alone.