Tear-jerking unrequited love songs in Western music: recommended classics and popular tracks
This is a playlist of tear-jerking unrequited love songs from Western music.
Even if you’re not good at English, just listening to the emotional vocals should let you feel what the singers are expressing.
Please enjoy these classic love songs that poignantly portray unrequited love.
Tear-jerking unrequited love songs in Western music: recommended classics and popular tracks (1–10)
GrenadeBruno Mars
A bittersweet track that sings about a hopeless unrequited love.
It was released in 2010 by American singer-songwriter Bruno Mars.
It topped charts around the world and was nominated for a Grammy Award.
The music video was filmed in Los Angeles.
I think about youAustin & Ally
A song by Austin & Ally that portrays sweet, bittersweet feelings of love.
It captures the heartache of unrequited love—when you can’t help thinking about your crush all day long.
Featured in the Disney Channel TV series “Austin & Ally,” this track served as the theme song for the popular show that aired from December 2011 to January 2016.
The lyrics depict thinking about someone from the moment you wake up until you fall asleep, a sentiment sure to resonate with anyone experiencing one-sided love.
It’s a recommended track not only for teenage girls struggling with romance, but also for adults who want to bask in a bit of nostalgia.
Always On Your SideSheryl Crow ft. Sting
A collaboration between American singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow and British musician Sting.
It’s a duet released in 2006, nominated for a Grammy Award and featured in the 2006 TV series “Desire.”
Just a Friend to YouMeghan Trainor
“Just a Friend to You,” sung by American artist Meghan Trainor.
Though its cheerful ukulele tones feel comforting, the song actually tells a bittersweet story of unrequited love—wishing to be more than “just friends.” You want to be lovers, but the other person only sees you as a friend… By pairing those frustrating feelings with an unapologetically bright melody, the poignancy hits even deeper.
Many of us know that sweet-yet-bitter experience of laughing beside the person we love as their “best friend,” while crying on the inside.
Let this song help you breezily get through the helpless ache of a one-sided crush!
Better NowPost Malone
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.