Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music: Ranking [2026]

Better NowPost Malone91rank/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 Rodrigo92rank/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.

Ocean EyesBillie Eilish93rank/position

Billie Eilish – ocean eyes (Official Music Video)

Released independently in 2015, “Ocean Eyes” is the song that put Billie Eilish’s name on the map.

It’s about unrequited love for a partner with eyes like the ocean.

The romance with someone whose eyes evoke the deep sea’s mysterious illusions blends with Billie Eilish’s transparent, airy vocals to create a unique world of its own.

It’s astonishing to think she was just 14 when the track came out.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hito Sui

Report a problem

HeroEnrique Iglesias94rank/position

Enrique Iglesias – Hero

This is a song by Enrique Iglesias, a singer from Spain famous as a Latin singer.

His laid-back, sweet vibe and vocal style as a Latin artist are perfect for a romantic ballad.

It was his first album in English, and the love song reached No.

1 on the UK charts.

You’re sure to be captivated by his sweet, heartrending voice.

DelicateTaylor Swift95rank/position

Taylor Swift – Delicate

Taylor Swift, an American singer-songwriter leading the contemporary music scene, released “Delicate” in 2017 through her album Reputation, delicately portraying the vulnerability of love and the impact a public image can have on a new relationship.

The song captures, in a distinctive musical style, the pressure that public scrutiny places on romance and the accompanying anxiety and tension.

Inspired by Taylor’s personal experiences, the lyrics especially resonate with women experiencing unrequited love, as if giving voice to their feelings.

With its delicate sound and piercing lyrics, it’s an emotional track that cheers on anyone in love.

Recommended for moments when you’re harboring secret feelings yet want to take a hopeful step forward.