[2026] Unfulfilled Feelings, Hearts Missing Each Other… A Collection of Western Songs About Unrequited Love

If the World Was EndingJP Saxe & Julia Michaels

JP Saxe – If the World Was Ending (Official Video) ft. Julia Michaels

This is a duet by JP Saxe from Canada and Julia Michaels, who is active in the United States.

It tells a bittersweet what-if story: if the world were ending, you’d rush to your ex—even though there’d be no reason to see each other anymore.

Over a gentle piano, their conversational vocals bring out an undying love for each other that tightens your chest.

Released in October 2019 and later included on the EP “Hold It Together,” the song’s message resonated widely, even inspiring a charity project featuring many artists.

If you’re longing for someone you can’t see, you may find your own feelings reflected in this aching love.

DreamerLaufey

Laufey – Dreamer (Official Audio)

This is a single released in September 2023 by Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey from her album “Bewitched.” The song portrays a woman who, despite experiencing romantic disappointment, never loses her sense of wonder.

The lyrics include the phrase “Milky Way,” conjuring a beautiful, starry-world atmosphere.

With her distinctive blend of jazz and pop, the track begins with a gentle piano and gradually expands into a richer soundscape, highlighted by a warm, Ella Fitzgerald–evoking vocal.

It’s a perfect classic for nights spent gazing at the stars, moments of romantic turmoil, or times when you want to find new hope.

Lie To Me5 Seconds of Summer

5 Seconds of Summer – Lie To Me

An emotional song that weaves themes of lies and sincerity in human relationships was included by the Australian pop-rock band 5 Seconds of Summer on their June 2018 album, Youngblood.

Tenderly portraying a sad love story, the track gently expresses the protagonist’s poignant wish for an ex-lover to tell them “I love you,” even if it’s a lie, carried by a melancholic vocal delivery.

In December, a duet version with singer-songwriter Julia Michaels was released, delving even deeper into lingering feelings and inner conflict toward a loved one.

As a heartwarming mid-tempo ballad that stays close to those suffering from heartbreak, this song has comforted many listeners.

end gameCat Burns

end game

Cat Burns, who is drawing attention on the pop music scene beyond the bounds of contemporary R&B, is also known for songs that often use romantic experiences as a motif.

This track, included on the album “Early Twenties” set for release on April 26, 2024, centers on the end of a relationship and its emotional impact.

Incorporating gospel and guitar elements, it achieves a deft balance between pop and R&B.

It portrays a couple who did their best but still couldn’t make it work, skillfully conveying the pain and turmoil brought on by a breakup.

It’s poised to become a new classic heartbreak song that will resonate deeply with listeners.

I Don’t Think That I Like HerCharlie Puth

Charlie Puth – I Don’t Think That I Like Her (Official Audio)

A song that masterfully weaves the complexities of love into an emotional and striking melody.

Charlie Puth’s clear, airy vocals vividly portray the pain and conflict of heartbreak.

Released in September 2022, the track is included on the album “Charlie” and was co-written with Jacob Kasher Hindlin and others.

It captures the feeling of being tired of the dating game and losing hope for new connections—sentiments that will especially resonate with anyone who’s been hurt in love.

Seamlessly blending pop and R&B elements, this piece is perfect for listening alone in quiet reflection.

Car’s OutsideJames Arthur

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

This ballad, which portrays the heartache of a long-distance relationship, was released in 2019 alongside James Arthur’s soul-stirring vocals.

The lyrics, depicting the poignant feelings of lovers suffering from physical distance, resonate with many listeners.

The phrase “there’s a car waiting outside” symbolically expresses the moment of parting, conveying a desperate wish not to be separated from a loved one.

James’s emotive singing further enhances the song’s appeal.

It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone longing for a distant partner.

Happiest YearJaymes Young

Jaymes Young – Happiest Year [Official Music Video]

This work by James Young, who has created numerous songs about heartrending farewells, is a gem of a ballad that sings of gratitude for a lost love.

Since its 2019 release, it has continued to move many listeners and stands as a celebrated track released as a solo work following the album Feel Something.

James distills the value of irreplaceable moments—realized only after loss—into 3 minutes and 48 seconds, conveying that profound feeling to us through music.

Even when everything is gone, it encourages us to face forward with the courage to cherish the happiness we once felt.

It’s a recommended song for those who want to envelop what they’re losing in love, or for anyone carrying hidden feelings in their heart.