Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music: Ranking [2026]

Hands To MyselfSelena Gomez29rank/position

Selena Gomez – Hands To Myself

This song captures a woman’s complex feelings: she loves someone, yet knows she mustn’t get involved.

Selena was in a relationship with Justin Bieber, and perhaps her own experiences are reflected here as well.

The suggestive lyrics invite the imagination to wander.

Let Me Love You (Until You Learn To Love Yourself)Ne-Yo30rank/position

Ne-Yo – Let Me Love You (Until You Learn To Love Yourself)

Ne-Yo, an American artist who showcases his rich talents widely as a singer-songwriter and producer.

This song is a love confession from a man to a woman whose heart has been hurt and closed off—he wants to teach her what true love is by loving her and bring back her smile.

It’s striking how he repeatedly sings “Let me love you,” conveying the man’s strong feelings throughout the track.

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HelloLionel Richie31rank/position

Lionel Richie – Hello (Official Music Video)

Lionel Richie’s “Hello” can be called a pinnacle of romantic unrequited-love songs from the ’80s.

Although it was released in 1984, its sentimental melody has never faded and continues to capture the hearts of many.

The searing emotions of unrequited love in this song evoke a sense of deep affection and quiet longing.

The bittersweet feelings of a man who can only gaze at a woman he lacks the courage to speak to are expressed through Richie’s approachable vocals and convincing lyrics, moving listeners with his sincere message.

Alongside the ache of unrequited love, the song also conveys a glimmer of hope, making it a timeless classic that resonates with both men and women.

Two Out Of Three Ain’t BadMeat Loaf32rank/position

Meat Loaf – Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad (PCM Stereo)

A track that sings about unrequited love and the elusive nature of romance.

It was released in 1978 by the American musician Meat Loaf.

It became a hit in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and elsewhere, and has been covered by artists such as the Nitty Gritty Band and Julian Austin.

EmotionsMariah Carey33rank/position

Mariah Carey – Emotions

Among Mariah’s many songs, this track stands out as one of her signature hits and a go-to anthem for girls in love.

With her soaring vocals and those uniquely Mariah high notes, she delivers a crisp, uplifting performance that captures the giddy, floating feeling of falling in love.

Need Ur LuvCharli XCX34rank/position

Charli XCX – Need Ur Luv (Audio)

This is an unrequited love song by Charli XCX, renowned in the electro-hip-hop genre for her exceptional profile and strikingly fresh sense of beats.

It’s a masterpiece whose deep lyrics, wrapped in danceable grooves, create a uniquely satisfying feel.

SugarMaroon 535rank/position

Maroon 5 – Sugar (Official Music Video)

Unlike classic unrequited-love songs, this is a pop track where the singer practically seems ready to drop to their knees and beg, “Please, I just want you to stay with me.” Both the music video and the song itself are bright and comedic, making you laugh at how desperate they get, while also making unrequited love feel fun.