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

FeelingsJohn Newman

John Newman – Feelings (Lyric Video)

This song by John Newman from England expresses feelings that keep growing even though you know they won’t come true.

Set to an electronic dance sound, it portrays a bittersweet unrequited love, singing “I can’t stop how I feel about you.” Even if your head understands that this love is a mistake, your heart won’t listen—a dilemma anyone who’s experienced unrequited love can painfully relate to.

Despite the powerful, uplifting melody, the heart-wrenching lyrics leave a deep impression.

If you’re struggling with these uncontrollable feelings, listen to this track and turn your hidden emotions into positive energy!

WeightlessArlo Parks

Arlo Parks – Weightless (Official Video)

This is a song by Arlo Parks from the UK that portrays the pain of a one-sided love where you’ve given too much.

Even after giving everything to the other person, all you get in return is a small kindness.

The emptiness of such an unreciprocated relationship is expressed through a light beat and a delicate voice.

Prioritizing the other person’s feelings so much that your own heart is treated as if it were weightless—that’s one of love’s dilemmas.

But losing sight of who you are would surely be sad.

Doesn’t listening to this song make you feel like starting by taking care of yourself first?

LiabilityLorde

Lorde – Liability

A piano ballad of aching beauty sung by Lorde, the New Zealand artist with a singular worldview.

Over a quiet piano, she delivers a whisper-soft confession of self-loathing and loneliness—“I’m a liability to someone”—that tightens around the heart.

Many of us have felt that painful distance from someone we love, or the anxiety that our very presence might be a burden.

On nights when those inescapable emotions threaten to overwhelm you, doesn’t this song feel like a gentle companion murmuring, “You’re not alone”? A gem that transforms pain into beauty.

Old NewsMitch James

Mitch James – Old News

“Old News,” sung by New Zealand artist Mitch James, is a bittersweet acoustic song about someone who still lingers in your heart even after a breakup.

Even though they should be “old news,” you find yourself checking in on their life or remembering them and feeling your chest tighten—anyone who’s been there will relate all too well.

You know you need to move on, but your heart won’t catch up with your head, and that frustration is real.

This song wraps those complicated emotions in his gentle voice, making you feel seen.

It’s like a quiet nudge telling you it’s okay not to force yourself to forget.

Listen to this track and take your time, at your own pace, to sort through your feelings.

Better NowPost Malone

Post Malone – Better Now

This is a song by American artist Post Malone about the lingering feelings for a former lover.

Even while putting on a brave face and saying “I’m fine without you,” the heart can’t help but keep thinking of that person—many of us have probably felt that way.

Despite its upbeat melody, the lyrics lay bare a painfully straightforward longing that tightens the chest.

An unforgettable love can be agonizing, but the experience of loving someone that deeply will surely help you grow.

Listen to “Better Now,” accept your feelings just once, and take your next step forward.

I’m a MessBebe Rexha

I’m a Mess

American singer-songwriter Bebe Rexha is known not only as a vocalist but also for writing many songs.

This track is included on her 2018 album Expectations, released as a singer.

Her distinctive voice and candid, straightforward lyrics about seeking love are likely to hook many listeners after just one play.

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?”