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

Without YouNilson

Without you Nilson

It’s a song that expresses deep regret over a breakup.

The lyrics are very straightforward, making it an incredibly, incredibly heartbreaking piece.

Please try translating it into Japanese once—you’ll feel a profound sadness.

And Nilsson’s gentle singing voice will make it all the more poignant.

Pretty EyesAlex Goot

“Pretty Eyes” – Alex Goot

The charm of his songs lies above all in his gentle singing voice and flowing piano performance.

It’s a truly lovely song with pure lyrics from a boy who, upon falling in love with a girl with beautiful eyes, wonders, “Why does the world feel so beautiful?”

Need Ur LuvCharli XCX

Charli XCX – Need Ur Luv (Audio)

A song included on the album “Sucker,” released in 2014 by British singer-songwriter and actress Charli XCX.

As a producer, American artist Rostam Batmanglij—known for Vampire Weekend and Discovery—participated in the track.

LaylaDerek and the Dominos

Layla – Derek and the Dominos

A passionate and dramatic song Eric Clapton wrote about his feelings for Pattie, who was then George Harrison’s wife.

It was inspired by a book of Persian poetry.

In 1992 on MTV Unplugged, he performed a slower acoustic version, which was later released as a single.

Invisible TouchGenesis

Genesis – Invisible Touch (Official Music Video)

A song written by Phil Collins.

It was inspired by Sheila E.’s 1984 hit “The Glamorous Life,” produced by Prince.

It is the only Genesis song to reach No.

1 on the charts in the United States.

It was used in the film American Psycho.

Two Out Of Three Ain’t BadMeat Loaf

Meat Loaf – Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad (PCM Stereo)

The title “Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” means “two out of three isn’t bad,” a humorous line often used in examples like “He’s tall, handsome, and unbelievably boring.” Jim Steinman, Meat Loaf’s songwriter, quoted this phrase to depict the elusive nature of love.

You Are Not AloneMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – You Are Not Alone (Official Video)

An R&B ballad about love and loneliness that reached No.

1 on the charts in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Written by R.

Kelly, the song was inspired by a difficult period in Michael Jackson’s life.

Lisa Marie Presley, who was married to Michael at the time, appears in the music video.