Unrequited Love in Western Music: A Collection of Heart-wrenching Classics [2026]

Anything Could HappenEllie Goulding

Ellie Goulding – Anything Could Happen (Official Video)

A single released in 2012.

It became a hit in the United States and across Europe.

It features vocals by the London Community Gospel Choir.

The music video, which depicts a car accident involving a couple, was filmed in Malibu, California, in 2012.

UnconditionallyKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Unconditionally (Official)

A sweet, bittersweet ballad by Katy Perry themed around unconditional love.

The lyrics portray a pure, profound affection that embraces everything about the other person, flaws and all.

With sweeping orchestration and crystal-clear vocals that resonate deeply, this piece offers comfort to those struggling with unrequited love.

Released in October 2013 and included on the album Prism, it was reportedly inspired by her visit to Madagascar with UNICEF.

It’s a perfect song for anyone experiencing a crush, giving courage to a heart in love.

EmotionsMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – Emotions

Among Mariah’s many songs, this track stands out as one of her signature hits and a go-to anthem for girls in love.

With her soaring vocals and those uniquely Mariah high notes, she delivers a crisp, uplifting performance that captures the giddy, floating feeling of falling in love.

According To YouOrianthi

Orianthi – According To You

It’s a song about a girl who realizes that, while her mean, supposed boyfriend always belittles her as boring and useless and saps her confidence, this new friend—“he”—always praises and encourages her, and she finds her feelings steadily shifting toward him.

Losing My ReligionR.E.M.

Losing My Religion

Many hit song lyrics can be interpreted in various ways, and this song is likely one of them.

While the title literally translates to “Losing My Religion,” it is said to sing about emotional distance with a loved one and the mismatch caused by moving through life at different speeds.

It was included on the 1991 album “Out of Time,” which propelled R.E.M.

to major success, and it became a massive hit.

CeciliaSimon&Garfunkel

Simon & Garfunkel – Cecilia (Audio)

A song about a man who can’t accept that the relationship is over and believes she still loves him.

The Swedish pop group Ace of Base recorded a song called “Cecilia,” based on this character, on their 1998 album The Flowers.

Now You’re Gone ft. Zara LarssonTom Walker

Tom Walker – Now You’re Gone (Acoustic) ft. Zara Larsson

Tom Walker, a Scottish artist who has performed at the Japanese music festival Summer Sonic.

This song is a love track about being unable to let go of a former lover.

It’s filled with relatable feelings that often come with heartbreak.

The serious sound underscores the sadness of a breakup.

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