Unrequited love breakup songs in Western music. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.

The One That Got AwayKaty Perry

Katy Perry – The One That Got Away (Official Music Video)

Rather than a heartbreak song, it’s closer to a memory song—or even a regret song.

The lyrics capture a very teenage vibe, about cutting loose and doing reckless things.

It’s poppy and easy to listen to, with an addictive hook that makes you want to sing it at karaoke.

The music video, which builds to a shocking ending, is a must-see.

All I WantKodaline

Kodaline – All I Want (Part 1)

They’re a rock band from Ireland.

Their beautiful vocals and the simple, acoustic guitar-driven sound are captivating.

There’s a certain rustic quality that evokes Irish folk music, and it has a strangely nostalgic feel for anyone who listens.

The lyrics tell a bittersweet breakup story, but the music video ends on a fairly happy note.

Fingers CrossedLauren Spencer Smith

Lauren Spencer Smith – Fingers Crossed

A ballad with a heartbreaking vocal and lyrics that strike the heart.

It candidly portrays a breakup with a lover and the pain that follows.

It shot to fame on TikTok and charted in many countries.

The phrase “crossing fingers” is memorable, symbolically expressing the emptiness of promises of love.

Lauren Spencer Smith’s soaring vocals further highlight the sting and frustration of heartbreak.

Released in January 2022, it reached number one in Ireland and Norway.

As a song that stands by those troubled by love, it has resonated with many people.

She Was MineLawson

Lawson – When She Was Mine

It seems they took their band name from the doctor who saved a member’s life.

They definitely don’t sell things like Karaage-kun, you know.

Their sound has a refreshing feel, which is a hallmark of the band, and they’re very popular, especially in the UK.

They have a lot of breakup songs, and I think they’re somewhat similar to Japan’s band Back Number.

PayphoneMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Payphone ft. Wiz Khalifa (Lyric Video)

Even people who don’t listen to much Western music have probably heard the name Maroon 5.

In their hands—usually singing breezy songs about adult romance—even a breakup song becomes something refreshing and full of crisp coolness.

There’s nothing clingy about it even after being dumped; it’s truly refreshing.

Bye Bye ByeNSYNC

*NSYNC – Bye Bye Bye (Official Video)

For people who aren’t into ornate wording or metaphors, this kind of breakup song is recommended.

Even though it’s a breakup song, it’s a track with a lively, upbeat parting vibe.

It makes you feel like maybe you need to be a little short on self-reflection to get through the pain of heartbreak.

This irresistibly pop song, just under four minutes long, is guaranteed to be one you’ll want to listen to over and over.

So SickNe-Yo

Ne-Yo – So Sick [Official Video]

Am I the only one who realizes that the lyrics of great Western pop songs often feature the telephone? They skillfully use the “phone” as a device to express longing and frustration.

Ne-Yo, in particular, is truly masterful at this.

As both a top-tier songwriter and producer, he’s blessed with talent and superb taste, and you can feel that vividly in this track.