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

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.

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.

Make You Feel My LoveAdele

Adele – Make You Feel My Love (Official Video)

A heart-rending, emotionally resonant ballad filled with bittersweet feelings.

The delicate piano tones and Adele’s clear, pure vocals beautifully capture the ache of unrequited love.

It’s a moving song that makes the longing for someone you love well up in your chest.

Included on her 2008 debut album, 19, it has captured the hearts of many.

In Japan, it was also featured in a documentary about the Great East Japan Earthquake, offering encouragement to those affected.

It’s the perfect song for anyone troubled by love or overflowing with feelings for someone special.

Listening to this track might even give you the courage to share your feelings with that person.

You sent me flyingAmy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse – You sent me flying

A song about her feelings toward the ex-boyfriend who broke Amy Winehouse’s heart.

Amy was known for dedicating this song in concerts to “those who have loved someone who didn’t love you.” It was released in the UK as a double A-side single together with ‘In My Bed.’

Strange And BeautifulAqualung

Strange and Beautiful (I’ll Put a Spell on You)

It’s a beautiful ballad that opens the self-titled debut album “Aqualung” by the British singer-songwriter Aqualung, released in 2002.

The song expresses the heartbreak of unrequited love, where the protagonist can’t get the person they love to notice them.

In an unexpected twist, the protagonist casts a spell on their crush, believing that if the first thing they see upon waking is him, they’ll fall in love with him.

It’s a masterpiece that captures feelings too strong to contain.