Tear-jerking unrequited love songs in Western music: recommended classics and popular tracks

ScientistColdplay

Coldplay – The Scientist (Official 4K Video)

It’s a poignant song by Coldplay.

Both the melody and the lyrics are heartbreaking.

The airy, floating vocals really hit you in the heart.

The Japanese translation is excellent too, so why not look it up? The way it parallels scientific progress with the distance between people is also very moving.

Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest WordBlue

Blue Featuring Elton John – Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word

They are a British dance-vocal group.

They have a mature coolness and are great singers—perhaps similar to EXILE in Japan.

It’s a song about not being able to say words of apology, no matter what.

The emotions are poured into the vocals, and listening to it can bring you to tears.

TenderBlur

Blur – Tender (Official Music Video)

Speaking of Blur, this is the song.

It’s well known that it was sent to his girlfriend, Justine.

While they usually write cynical lyrics and twisty pop songs, this one is relatively straightforward and hits you directly.

With its grand gospel elements, it more than showcases the breadth of their musicality.

AlwaysBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – Always (Official Music Video)

Even a handsome guy like Jon Bon Jovi sings clingy, lovesick songs like this one, which makes him feel more relatable.

As a piece of music it’s excellent too—a cool track featuring his soaring vocals.

The music video is also brimming with Jon’s charm.

Somebody That I Used To KnowGotye

Gotye – Somebody That I Used To Know (feat. Kimbra) [Official Music Video]

I recommend this for people who want to listen to breakup songs but aren’t into overly elaborate lyrics.

The words are pretty straightforward, and the episodes are quite specific.

I’m sure these episodes are based on real experiences.

Once you understand the meaning, you’ll find yourself laughing.

Car’s OutsideJames Arthur

James Arthur – Car’s Outside (Official Lyric Video)

A heart-stirring ballad by James Arthur that captures the poignant ache of a long-distance relationship.

The pain of being physically separated from a loved one resonates deeply through James Arthur’s raw vocals and emotional melody.

Released in 2019, this song is sure to be a source of comfort for those who miss a partner far away.

The protagonist, who leads a life of frequent travel for tours and work, lays bare the loneliness of living apart from the one he loves.

You can feel his desperate wish to be together and never be apart again, leaving your heart tight with emotion.

You’re beautifulJames Blunt

James Blunt – You’re Beautiful (Official Music Video) [4K]

It’s a very beautiful melody and a song that’s widely loved in 11 countries around the world.

It even became a hot topic in commercials.

But actually, it’s quite the heartbreak song.

The lyrics are about bumping into his girlfriend on the subway, and once you know that, the word “beautiful” somehow starts to feel a bit sad.

By the way, about the music video—it looks really cold.

It’s fine to watch in the heat of summer, but in winter it gives you a bit of a chill.