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

THE LONELIESTMåneskin

Måneskin – THE LONELIEST (Official Video)

A bittersweet breakup ballad woven by the rock band Måneskin.

While carrying the pain of parting, the emotions of looking back beautifully on the time they loved are deeply moving.

Released in October 2022, this track is a mellow work that stands apart from their usual sound.

The music video was filmed in a stately Italian mansion, further enhancing the song’s atmosphere.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on nights when you’re thinking of someone you can never have, or when you want to sink into solitude.

Even as it bears the sorrow of losing a loved one, it’s sure to resonate with those who are trying to face forward.

You Could Be HappySnow Patrol

Snow Patrol – You Could Be Happy [HD]

Whether one takes this song as whiny or as bittersweet yet beautiful depends on the listener.

The lyrics are entirely in the first person, almost like a monologue.

The band Snow Patrol has a relentless dedication to their performance in pursuit of beautiful melodies.

This song evokes the clear, deep winter snow and puts you in a poetic mood.

Teardrops On My GuitarTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Teardrops On My Guitar

A love song about a teenager’s unrequited crush.

It’s a country-pop track released when Taylor Swift was 17, and it became a hit in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other countries.

The music video features Tyler Hilton, also known for his role in the TV drama One Tree Hill.

Almost LoverA Fine Frenzy

Almost Lover

Titled with a phrase meaning “less than lovers,” this song is an unrequited-love track by the American singer-songwriter A Fine Frenzy, included on her debut album One Cell in the Sea.

True to its name, it’s a poignant ballad; its lyrics about parting with a man she had thought of as a lover are achingly resonant.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when someone you can’t forget comes to mind.

Chasing PavementsAdele

Adele – Chasing Pavements (Official Music Video)

This is a song included on the debut album 19 by British singer Adele.

Its lyrics are based on her own experience of being deceived by a boyfriend, and there’s also a story that the melody originated from a recording she made on her cell phone while walking.

Sung in her distinctive husky voice, it’s a bittersweet love song that asks, “Should I give up or should I keep chasing?”

All Out Of LoveAir Supply

Air Supply – All Out Of Love (Official HD Video)

A pop ballad that sings of the sense of loss toward a loved one.

It was released in 1980 by the Australian soft rock duo Air Supply.

It is their only song to enter the UK top charts, peaking at No.

11.

Notice MeAlli Simpson

Alli Simpson – Notice Me [Official Video]

When you think of breakup songs, many people probably imagine acoustic tracks with a sad vibe.

However, this song by Alli Simpson is a positive breakup anthem, pairing an upbeat feel with a message of “I’ll never give up.” The lyric “I’ll do anything to make you turn around and notice me” is empowering just to listen to.