Recommended unrequited love songs for teens

Because I like you.Yuika

Because I love you. (feat. Ren) / “Yuika” [Music Video]

A cute love song by Yuika that portrays the pure feelings of a high school romance.

Set to a gentle melody, the lyrics express in down-to-earth words how the singer is drawn to a crush’s small gestures and unexpected personality contrasts.

The heartfelt wishes—“Please turn around,” “Please notice me”—will remind anyone of a page from their own youth.

Released in June 2021, the track became a major sensation, especially on TikTok, topping viral charts in many countries.

It’s a perfect pick for those feeling the ache of unrequited love or looking to boost their motivation in romance.

Leading someone on is a serious offense!arekunn

Teasing Is a Serious Crime! / Are-kun [Official Music Video]

This song depicts the heartache of an unrequited crush tossed around by someone’s teasing behavior, all through a comedic lens.

Its lyrics capture a racing heartbeat, affection for the other person, and mounting frustration, resonating deeply with listeners.

Showcasing Are-kun’s unique expressive style, the track gained buzz after its September 2023 release, especially on social media, with numerous TikTok videos using parts of the song.

It’s recommended for anyone troubled by a crush’s mixed signals or feeling the frustration of unrequited love.

The relatable lyrics will encourage and uplift you.

You know what,are-kun &『yuika’}

You know. / Are-kun & “Yuika” [MV]

A refreshing melody that evokes the feeling of spring and lyrics that capture the innocence of first love make a lasting impression! This is a duet song by Are-kun and Yuika.

Created solely through exchanges on social media, the track was born from a fateful encounter where they met in person for the first time at the recording session.

It vividly portrays the frustrating emotions of two people who have feelings for each other but can’t quite express them honestly.

Released in April 2022, the song gained attention for its youthfully nostalgic music video, in which a high school boy and girl share their feelings as cherry blossoms flutter around them.

It’s recommended not only for those experiencing unrequited love, but also for anyone looking to start a new romance with the arrival of spring.

cold; curt; blunt; unfriendlyRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Aloof [Official Music Video]

This is an epic love song over six minutes long that delicately portrays the wavering emotions of an ambiguous romance.

The bittersweet feelings of being elated or dejected by a partner’s slightest gestures or words are expressed over a calm and beautiful melody.

Included on RADWIMPS’ album ANTI ANTI GENERATION, released in December 2018, the song was also used as the theme for ABEMA’s dating reality show Who Is the Wolf?, resonating strongly with younger audiences.

The music video features Nana Komatsu and Fuju Kamio, resulting in a striking visual piece that reflects contemporary views on love.

It’s a track best enjoyed when you can really take your time singing—whether during a solo karaoke session or at karaoke with close friends in a relaxed setting.

Being a little short is just right.YUTORI-SEDAI

YUTORI-SEDAI – Just Enough by Being a Little Short [Official Music Video]

The lyrics sweetly and poignantly portray a girl’s feelings of love—truly memorable! YUTORI-SEDAI’s song is a love anthem that stands by the hearts of high schoolers dealing with unrequited feelings.

Its unique take on romance—“love that’s a little lacking is just right”—has resonated with many.

Released in October 2023, the track became a viral hit on TikTok, and the music video featuring cast members from a popular dating show also drew attention.

It’s the perfect song for those in the midst of youth, to listen to while thinking of someone they like.

High school students struggling with love—why not listen to this song and find a bit of courage?

seesawtuki.

tuki. “Seesaw” Official Music Video

A bittersweet love song by tuki.

that overlays the delicate distance between two people in romance with the image of a seesaw.

It’s a track we hope those in relationships that aren’t progressing—and who feel that frustrating stagnation—will listen to.

When you’re struggling with the distance or mismatch in feelings between you and your partner, you’re sure to find moments that resonate.

The album “15,” releasing in January 2025 and featuring this song, is a collection of tracks she created up to the age of 15—be sure to check it out along with this track.

Age is just a number.HoneyWorks feat. Ayase Koyuki (CV: Horie Shun)

Age Gap Doesn’t Matter feat. Koyuki Ayase (CV: Shun Horie) / HoneyWorks

HoneyWorks’ fan name is “Hani-mate,” which sounds a lot like the anime shop “Animate,” doesn’t it? It’s kind of adorable.

HoneyWorks’ songs are all brimming with heartache, but the pain in this one, “What’s a Little Age Difference?”, really brings the tears.

He falls for a woman one year older, tries to protect himself by putting up emotional safeguards so he won’t get hurt, yet can’t hold back his feelings in the end… The story unfolds like a movie and keeps your heart pounding.

It’s a one-sided love song that makes you swoon even outside the realm of anime and the 2D world!