Songs about unrequited love are a staple of popular music, with countless artists throughout the decades exploring the emotional pain and heartache that comes with loving someone who doesn’t feel the same way. These songs capture the bittersweet longing and longing of unfulfilled desire, while also showcasing the depth and complexity of human emotions.
One of the most enduring examples of this genre is “I Will Always Love You” by Dolly Parton, which became a massive hit for Whitney Houston in the 1990s. The song is a moving tribute to a love that must be left behind, with lyrics that convey the sadness and resignation that comes with letting go.
Another classic example is “Every Breath You Take” by The Police, which is often mistaken for a romantic love song, but is actually about an obsessive and unhealthy obsession. With its dark and brooding melody, the song captures the intensity and desperation of unrequited love, while also exploring the dangers and consequences of such an all-consuming passion.
More recent examples include Adele’s “Someone Like You” and Sam Smith’s “Stay With Me,” which both showcase the pain and heartbreak of unrequited love in a powerful and poignant way. These songs tap into a universal human experience, and offer a way for listeners to connect with their own feelings of longing, desire, and heartbreak.
In conclusion, top 17 songs about unrequited love have played an important role in popular music for decades, providing a way for artists to explore the complexities of human emotions and to connect with listeners on a deep and personal level. These songs are a testament to the power of music to express the inexpressible, and to offer solace and understanding to those who have experienced the pain of unfulfilled love.
1. “You Belong With Me” by Taylor Swift
“You Belong With Me” is a catchy and upbeat song by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. Released in 2008, the song tells the story of a girl who is in love with her male friend, but he is dating someone else. The lyrics are relatable and capture the feeling of unrequited love, with Swift singing about how she knows him better than his girlfriend and that he would be better off with her. With its catchy melody and sing-along chorus, “You Belong With Me” has become one of Swift’s most popular songs, and a favorite among fans who appreciate its message of unrequited love and the power of friendship.
2. “Every Little Thing She Does is Magic” by The Police
“Every Little Thing She Does is Magic” is a popular song by the English rock band The Police, released in 1981. The upbeat and joyful tune features a mix of reggae and pop sounds, with catchy guitar riffs and a memorable chorus. The lyrics describe the singer’s infatuation with a woman who enchants him with every little thing she does, from the way she smiles to the way she moves. The song is an ode to the magic of falling in love and how it can make even the smallest actions seem extraordinary. It remains a classic example of The Police’s unique sound and songwriting style.
3. “Waiting in Vain” by Bob Marley
“Waiting in Vain” is a classic reggae love song by Jamaican legend Bob Marley, released in 1977. The song features Marley’s signature mix of reggae rhythms and soulful vocals, with a laid-back tempo that perfectly captures the longing and heartache of unrequited love. The lyrics speak of a man who is patiently waiting for his love interest to return his affections, but is met only with disappointment and sadness. Marley’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s gentle instrumentation combine to create a powerful emotional impact that speaks to the universal experience of waiting and hoping for love. It remains one of Marley’s most beloved and enduring songs.
4. “Bad Religion” by Frank Ocean
“Bad Religion” is a haunting and soulful ballad by American singer-songwriter Frank Ocean. Released in 2012, the song is a deeply personal exploration of Ocean’s struggles with unrequited love and his search for meaning in the face of heartbreak. With its sparse and melancholy melody, “Bad Religion” captures the raw emotion and vulnerability of Ocean’s lyrics, as he sings about seeking solace in religion and philosophy. The song is a testament to Ocean’s unique artistry and his ability to craft deeply affecting and introspective music that resonates with listeners on a profound and emotional level.
5. “Hello” by Lionel Richie
“Hello” is a classic ballad by Lionel Richie, released in 1984 as part of his second solo album, “Can’t Slow Down”. The song features Richie’s signature smooth vocals and a simple, yet powerful piano melody. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is reaching out to a woman he’s interested in, but is too nervous to approach her directly. He wonders if she’s feeling the same way and hopes that she’ll notice him. The song’s iconic music video, featuring Richie as a teacher who falls in love with his blind student, has become just as famous as the song itself. “Hello” remains a beloved classic to this day.
6. “Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains of Wayne
“Stacy’s Mom” is a catchy and irreverent song by American rock band Fountains of Wayne. Released in 2003, the song tells the story of a young boy who has a crush on his friend’s mother, Stacy’s mom. The lyrics are tongue-in-cheek and humorous, with the boy fantasizing about being with Stacy’s mom and describing her as the “one for me.” With its upbeat melody and playful lyrics, “Stacy’s Mom” has become a cult favorite among fans of power pop and alternative rock. The song is a testament to the band’s quirky sense of humor and their ability to craft catchy and memorable tunes.
7. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a haunting ballad by Bonnie Raitt, released in 1991 as part of her album “Luck of the Draw”. The song was written by Mike Reid and Allen Shamblin, and it explores the pain of unrequited love. Raitt’s soulful and raw vocals are paired with a minimalist piano and guitar arrangement, allowing the emotion of the lyrics to take center stage. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Adele and George Michael, and it remains a powerful anthem for anyone who has loved someone who doesn’t feel the same way.
8. “To Be With You” by Mr. Big
“To Be With You” is a power ballad by American rock band Mr. Big. Released in 1991, the song is a heartfelt ode to the power of love and the longing to be with the one you love. With its simple yet emotive melody and romantic lyrics, “To Be With You” became a massive hit, topping the charts in several countries and earning the band a dedicated fan base. The song is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic rock ballads, and a reminder of the power of music to express the deepest and most profound human emotions.
9. “Grenade” by Bruno Mars
“Grenade” is a hit song by Bruno Mars, released in 2010 as part of his debut album “Doo-Wops & Hooligans”. The song features Mars’ signature blend of pop, R&B, and soul, and showcases his impressive vocal range. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is willing to do anything for the woman he loves, even if it means sacrificing everything, including his own life. The song’s catchy chorus and powerful hook have made it a fan favorite, and it remains one of Mars’ most popular songs to this day. “Grenade” is a testament to the power of love and the lengths we’ll go to for the ones we care about.
10. “Just a Friend to You” by Meghan Trainor
“Just a Friend to You” is a peppy and upbeat song by American singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor. Released in 2016, the song is a fun and lighthearted take on the friendzone, with Trainor singing about being happy just to be friends with someone she has feelings for. The lyrics are relatable and catchy, with Trainor proclaiming that she’ll always be there for her friend, even if they don’t feel the same way about her. With its infectious melody and positive message, “Just a Friend to You” has become a fan favorite, and a reminder of the power of friendship and unconditional love.q
11. “Not in That Way” by Sam Smith
“Not in That Way” is a soulful and heartbreaking ballad by Sam Smith, released in 2014 as part of his debut album “In the Lonely Hour”. The song explores the pain of unrequited love, as Smith sings about wanting someone who doesn’t feel the same way. The stripped-down arrangement allows Smith’s powerful vocals and vulnerable lyrics to take center stage, making it a standout track on the album. “Not in That Way” is a beautiful and emotional ode to the pain of loving someone who can’t love you back, and it’s a song that many can relate to.
12. “Layla” by Eric Clapton
“Layla” is a timeless and classic rock song by Eric Clapton, released in 1970 as part of Derek and the Dominos. The song tells the story of Clapton’s unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, the wife of his friend George Harrison, and his desperation to be with her. With its signature guitar riff and soaring vocals, “Layla” has become a defining song of the rock genre, and a testament to Clapton’s unparalleled musicianship and emotional depth. The song has inspired countless covers and has cemented its place in the pantheon of rock music history.
13. “Why Can’t This Be Love” by Van Halen
“Why Can’t This Be Love” is a classic rock hit by Van Halen, released in 1986 as part of their album “5150”. The song marks the band’s first single with new lead vocalist Sammy Hagar, who replaced David Lee Roth. The upbeat, pop-influenced track features Eddie Van Halen’s signature guitar riffs and a catchy chorus, with Hagar’s powerful vocals adding a new dimension to the band’s sound. The lyrics express the excitement and uncertainty of new love, as Hagar sings about the thrill of falling for someone and the hope that it could be something more. “Why Can’t This Be Love” is a testament to the power of rock and roll to capture the joys and pains of life and love.
14. “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen
“Call Me Maybe” is an infectious and upbeat pop song by Canadian singer Carly Rae Jepsen. Released in 2011, the song tells the story of a girl who meets a guy she likes and gives him her number, asking him to call her. With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, “Call Me Maybe” quickly became a massive hit, topping the charts in several countries and earning Jepsen legions of fans. The song is a testament to the power of pop music to capture the spirit of the moment and the infectious energy of youth culture.
15. “Everything You Want” by Vertical Horizon
“Everything You Want” is a soaring and emotional rock ballad by American band Vertical Horizon. Released in 1999, the song tells the story of a person’s unrequited love for someone who cannot reciprocate their feelings. The lyrics are heartfelt and relatable, capturing the pain and longing of unrequited love, and the desire to be everything the other person wants. With its memorable melody and powerful vocals, “Everything You Want” became an instant classic and a defining song of the late 90s alternative rock scene. The song remains a beloved favorite among fans of the band and the genre, and a reminder of the enduring appeal of emotive and heartfelt rock ballads.
16. “Just My Imagination” by The Temptations
“Just My Imagination” is a classic soul ballad by The Temptations, released in 1971 as part of their album “Sky’s the Limit”. The song features the group’s signature harmonies and a smooth, dreamy melody that perfectly captures the wistful tone of the lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who imagines a perfect love affair with a woman he’s never met, but is too shy to approach. The song’s poignant lyrics and emotive delivery have made it a timeless classic, and it remains a beloved part of The Temptations’ legendary repertoire. “Just My Imagination” is a beautiful tribute to the power of the human imagination and the hope it can bring to our lives.
17. Jubel by Klingande
“Jubel” by Klingande is a summery, uplifting track that combines the sounds of deep house and tropical house. The song begins with a catchy saxophone melody that’s instantly recognizable and sets the mood for the rest of the track. The upbeat tempo, the groovy bassline, and the subtle use of percussion make “Jubel” a perfect dancefloor filler. The vocals, which are in French, add a touch of romanticism to the track. Overall, “Jubel” is a feel-good song that transports the listener to a sunny beach party or a carefree summer day.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
