Unrequited Love Songs in Western Music: Ranking [2026]

One ThingOne Direction1rank/position

One Direction – One Thing

One Direction, the boy band that enjoyed worldwide popularity in the 2010s, is a familiar group in Japan as well.

Although they are currently on hiatus, the many masterpieces they left behind continue to be loved.

Among their works, a pop tune from their debut album Up All Night powerfully sings about the impulse of unrequited love.

It sets a straightforward, heartfelt longing—being crazy about you and aching for “that one thing”—to sparkling guitar sounds and a fast-paced, exhilarating melody.

Released on CD in the UK in February 2012, the track also ranked high on the charts.

When your feelings for someone become unstoppable, listening to it will give you the courage to affirm those emotions with strength.

You Belong With MeTaylor Swift2rank/position

Taylor Swift – You Belong With Me

This is an unrequited love song by Taylor Swift, who has garnered immense support for her acoustic vocals, addictive chorus phrases, and melodic world-building.

The depth of the lyrics is exceptional, elevating the song to such a sublime level that it could even bring you to tears.

Baby IAriana Grande3rank/position

Ariana Grande – Baby I (Official Video)

“Baby I,” the second single from Ariana Grande’s debut album “Yours Truly,” released in 2013, is one of the most memorable songs in her musical career.

This upbeat track blends pop and R&B elements, showcasing Ariana’s wide vocal range and remarkable singing ability.

In “Baby I,” the frustration of unrequited love and powerful affection are expressed, and the lyrics convey deep emotions that can’t be easily put into words.

The overwhelming love Ariana feels—so strong it defies expression—resonates with the feelings many women experience in one-sided love.

This song is especially recommended for those struggling with love or hoping someone will notice the feelings they can’t bring themselves to express.

Ariana Grande’s delicate yet powerful vocals will touch listeners’ hearts and reveal the true value of love.

BoyfriendJustin Bieber4rank/position

Justin Bieber – Boyfriend

This song, which candidly expresses the feeling of “If I were your boyfriend,” makes you want to listen and quietly relate to it through Justin Bieber’s sweet vocals and mellow beat.

The lyric “If you give me a chance” will really hit home for boys.

Call Me MaybeCarly Rae Jepsen5rank/position

Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe

Carly Rae Jepsen’s 2012 hit about giving her crush her phone number and saying, “Call me.” Her cute vocals are sure to make your heart skip a beat.

The music video is captivating, set up like a love story, and its shocking ending will make you laugh.

You’re BeautifulJames Blunt6rank/position

You’re Beautiful

Released in 2005, this song became a massive hit, even being used as a TV drama theme and in commercials in Japan.

The memorable chorus that repeats “You are beautiful” is likely familiar to everyone.

Although it was often mistaken for a simple love song, it’s actually a bittersweet song about unrequited love—no matter how exhilarated the feelings become, they still can’t be together.

Let Her GoPassenger7rank/position

Passenger | Let Her Go (Official Video)

A melancholic track released in 2012 by the British singer-songwriter Passenger.

It was inspired by his ex-girlfriend.

The song was used in a Budweiser commercial that aired during the 2014 Super Bowl.