26 Most Popular Songs About Wanting Someone of All Time

Songs about wanting someone tap into the raw emotions of desire, love, and longing. Whether it’s the yearning for a new love, the ache of unrequited feelings, or the passion of wanting to hold onto a cherished connection, these songs give voice to the deep human need for closeness.

Across genres, artists use music to express the complexities of wanting someone, from the thrill of infatuation to the heartbreak of distance.

These songs resonate with listeners because they reflect universal emotions, reminding us all of the power of love and the vulnerability that comes with it.

26 Most Iconic Songs About Wanting Someone Who Doesn’t Want You Back (Passionate Playlist)

These songs capture the emotions of longing, desire, and the deep yearning for someone special, often with a mix of vulnerability and passion.

Here’s a list of 26 songs about longing, desire, and wanting someone:

#1 “Someone Like You” by Adele

Adele’s “Someone Like You” is a powerful ballad about longing for a past love while knowing that it’s time to move on. The song describes the heartache of wanting someone who has already moved forward with their life, leaving the narrator grappling with the remnants of their deep affection. Adele’s soulful, emotional delivery elevates the song’s vulnerability, as she sings about the bittersweet hope of finding someone new who will evoke the same feelings.

The raw emotion in Adele’s voice, paired with the stripped-back piano, creates an intimate portrayal of unrequited desire. “Someone Like You” captures the pain of wanting someone you can’t have, while holding onto the memories that linger.

#2 “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” is a romantic anthem that expresses the deep desire to be with someone forever. The lyrics are filled with imagery of growing old together, evoking the kind of love that is not just about passion but also about companionship and devotion. Sheeran’s smooth voice and the song’s gentle melody create an atmosphere of tenderness, reflecting the comfort and joy of wanting to spend a lifetime with someone.

The song’s emotional core is its longing for a love that endures through time and change, making it a celebration of lasting desire. “Thinking Out Loud” is a heartfelt expression of wanting someone not just in the moment, but for eternity.

#3 “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a timeless classic about the overwhelming feeling of falling deeply in love with someone. The song’s simple yet profound lyrics capture the inevitability of desire, where every fiber of the narrator’s being is drawn to the object of their affection. Elvis’ smooth, velvety vocals bring a sense of warmth and sincerity to the track, making the listener feel the intensity of his longing.

The gentle melody and romantic sentiment create a perfect backdrop for expressing the irresistible pull of love. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a tribute to the kind of desire that feels destined, as if fate itself is leading two people together.

#4 “We Found Love” by Rihanna

Rihanna’s “We Found Love” is a high-energy, electronic dance anthem about the exhilarating feeling of wanting and finding love in the most unexpected places. The song’s pulsating beat reflects the rush of emotions that come with being overwhelmed by desire, while the lyrics convey both the joy and the chaos of being swept up in love. Rihanna’s vocals capture the euphoria of being completely consumed by someone, where love feels both beautiful and dangerous.

The song’s contrast between intense highs and lows mirrors the unpredictable nature of wanting someone, especially when that love feels all-encompassing. “We Found Love” celebrates the thrill of desire, even when it feels like you’re losing control.

#5 “Stay With Me” by Sam Smith

Sam Smith’s “Stay With Me” is a poignant ballad about the longing for connection, even if it’s fleeting. The song tells the story of someone who desperately wants their partner to stay, not out of love, but out of a deep need for comfort and companionship. Smith’s haunting vocals, paired with the gospel-inspired melody, give the song an emotional depth that resonates with anyone who has ever wanted someone to fill a void, even temporarily.

The raw vulnerability in “Stay With Me” speaks to the human need for intimacy and closeness, even when it’s clear that the relationship is not meant to last. It’s a powerful exploration of desire born out of loneliness and longing.

#6 “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles

The Beatles’ “I Want to Hold Your Hand” is an infectious, upbeat song that perfectly captures the innocent excitement of wanting someone. The song’s cheerful melody and harmonized vocals create an atmosphere of pure joy, reflecting the thrill of new love and the simple, yet powerful, desire to be physically close to someone. It’s a celebration of the early stages of romance, where every touch feels electric and the connection is filled with anticipation.

The simplicity of the lyrics belies the depth of emotion behind them, making “I Want to Hold Your Hand” an enduring anthem for young love. It’s a timeless expression of the happiness and excitement that come with wanting someone by your side.

#7 “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” is a soul-stirring ballad about the deep desire to hold onto someone, even when it’s time to part ways. Originally written by Dolly Parton, the song takes on a new level of intensity with Houston’s powerful vocals, which convey both love and heartbreak in equal measure. The song speaks to the kind of love that lingers, where even though circumstances require separation, the desire to care for the other person never fades.

The sweeping melody and emotional depth of Houston’s performance make “I Will Always Love You” a profound expression of longing and love that endures beyond physical presence. It’s a timeless reflection of wanting someone, even when they’re no longer yours.

#8 “Your Body is a Wonderland” by John Mayer

John Mayer’s “Your Body is a Wonderland” is a sensual, playful ode to physical desire and admiration for someone’s beauty. The song’s smooth melody and Mayer’s soft vocals create an intimate atmosphere, capturing the excitement and passion of being infatuated with someone. The lyrics reflect a deep attraction, focusing on the way love and physical connection intertwine, making every moment feel magical and electrifying.

Mayer’s poetic imagery and laid-back style give the song a sense of both innocence and intense desire, as if each discovery brings new wonder. “Your Body is a Wonderland” celebrates the joy of wanting someone, where love is explored through the physical and emotional connection between two people.

#9 “Always Remember Us This Way” by Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga’s “Always Remember Us This Way” is a bittersweet ballad about longing and the desire to hold onto a perfect memory of someone, even when the relationship changes. Her powerful vocals bring raw emotion to the song, conveying the pain of knowing that the moment of connection may not last forever, yet wanting to preserve it in its most beautiful form. The song, featured in A Star Is Born, captures the fragility of love, where passion and heartbreak coexist.

With its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Always Remember Us This Way” evokes the yearning to cling to the intensity of love, even when it’s slipping away. It’s a poignant expression of wanting someone, even as time and circumstances pull them apart.

#10 “The Power of Love” by Celine Dion

Celine Dion’s “The Power of Love” is a soaring anthem that expresses the overwhelming feeling of desire and longing for someone’s love. Dion’s powerful voice conveys both vulnerability and strength, as the lyrics explore the deep emotional connection between two people who are bound by their love for each other. The song’s sweeping orchestration and passionate delivery make it a declaration of the transformative power of love, where the need to be close to someone becomes all-encompassing.

The song speaks to the way love can lift us up and give us the strength to overcome obstacles, all while magnifying the desire to be with the person who completes us. “The Power of Love” is an anthem for those who want nothing more than to be held by the one they love.

#11 “Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars’ “Just the Way You Are” is a heartwarming song about wanting someone exactly as they are, celebrating their uniqueness and beauty. The song’s uplifting melody and Mars’ sincere vocals create an atmosphere of admiration, where every detail about the person is cherished. Mars captures the feeling of falling in love with someone’s imperfections, expressing that there’s no need for them to change, as they are already perfect in the eyes of the beholder.

The song reflects the purest kind of desire—wanting someone simply for who they are, without expectations or conditions. “Just the Way You Are” is a joyful and affectionate tribute to unconditional love and the desire to see the person you love happy and confident.

#12 “Wildest Dreams” by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s “Wildest Dreams” is a dreamy, nostalgic song about wanting someone so intensely that the memory of them stays forever etched in the mind. The song’s ethereal production and Swift’s breathy vocals create an atmosphere of longing, where the desire for a fleeting romance becomes immortalized in memory. Swift sings about the bittersweet nature of a love that may not last, yet the wish to hold onto it as a perfect, untouchable dream persists.

“Wildest Dreams” captures the emotional complexity of wanting someone, even when the future is uncertain. It’s a yearning for a moment of passion to remain vivid, as if frozen in time, reflecting the heart’s desire to never let go.

#13 “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé

Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love” is a high-energy anthem about the overwhelming feeling of desire and infatuation. The song’s infectious beat and Beyoncé’s electrifying vocals convey the intensity of being completely captivated by someone, where logic and control are thrown out the window. The lyrics reflect the thrill of new love, where emotions run wild, and every moment spent with the person feels like a whirlwind of excitement.

The song explores the irresistible pull of desire, where the narrator is “crazy” in love, consumed by passion and unable to resist the magnetic attraction. “Crazy in Love” perfectly encapsulates the exhilarating, all-consuming experience of wanting someone so deeply that it takes over everything.

#14 “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On” is one of the most iconic songs about physical desire and intimate longing. The smooth, sultry melody, combined with Gaye’s soulful vocals, creates a sensual atmosphere that invites the listener to embrace their feelings of passion and connection. The lyrics are direct yet tender, expressing a deep, mutual desire for closeness and affection that transcends mere attraction.

“Let’s Get It On” is a celebration of love and physical intimacy, capturing the essence of wanting someone not only emotionally but physically. It’s a timeless expression of romantic and sexual desire, delivered with Gaye’s signature warmth and sensuality.

#15 “Fallin’” by Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys’ “Fallin’” is a soulful exploration of the complexity of desire, where wanting someone can bring both joy and pain. The song’s haunting piano melody and Keys’ powerful voice convey the push-and-pull dynamics of a tumultuous relationship, where the narrator is caught in a cycle of falling in and out of love. The lyrics reflect the intensity of wanting someone, even when the relationship is fraught with challenges.

“Fallin’” speaks to the emotional turmoil that comes with loving someone deeply, where the desire for them is undeniable, yet the experience is bittersweet. It’s a song that captures the highs and lows of desire, where passion and heartbreak are intertwined.

#16 “Mirrors” by Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake’s “Mirrors” is a deeply personal song about finding someone who reflects your soul and fulfills your longing for a perfect connection. The lyrics describe the deep emotional bond between two people who complete each other, with Timberlake’s smooth vocals expressing the sense of fulfillment that comes from being with the right person. The song’s powerful melody and heartfelt delivery make it a declaration of love and desire for someone who feels like an extension of yourself.

“Mirrors” reflects the idea that true love is like finding your other half, where the desire to be with them is rooted in a profound emotional connection. It’s a song about the beauty of wanting someone who feels like your perfect match.

#17 “At Last” by Etta James

Etta James’ “At Last” is a timeless ballad that celebrates the joy and relief of finally finding the person you’ve longed for. James’ rich, soulful vocals bring an immense depth of emotion to the song, as she sings about the fulfillment of her deepest desires. The song captures the feeling of waiting for love and the overwhelming happiness that comes when that longing is finally satisfied.

“At Last” is a celebration of the end of longing, where desire turns into contentment and peace. It’s an iconic song about wanting someone for so long and the bliss of realizing that your love has finally arrived, making every moment worth the wait.

#18 “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” by Roberta Flack

Roberta Flack’s “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is a deeply intimate and emotional ballad that captures the overwhelming feeling of desire and awe upon seeing someone for the first time. The song’s slow, delicate melody and Flack’s tender vocals create an atmosphere of reverence, as if time itself pauses in the moment of falling in love. The lyrics describe the deep connection felt in that first instant, where every detail of the person is magnified through the lens of desire.

Flack’s masterful delivery allows the song to express both vulnerability and longing, making it a timeless portrayal of the purest form of wanting someone. It’s a heartfelt celebration of love at first sight, where desire is both immediate and everlasting.

#19 “Earned It” by The Weeknd

The Weeknd’s “Earned It” is a sultry, seductive song about wanting someone who makes you feel like they’re worth the chase. The song’s smooth, dark production and The Weeknd’s sensual vocals create a mood of intrigue and desire, where the object of affection is seen as both elusive and irresistible. The lyrics emphasize the balance between lust and admiration, where wanting someone is about more than just physical attraction—it’s about the deep emotional connection they inspire.

With its moody undertones and provocative lyrics, “Earned It” reflects the complexities of desire, where the person you want must also prove themselves worthy of your devotion. It’s a song that captures the intense, slow-burning nature of longing for someone who feels just out of reach.

#20 “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon” is a timeless classic about wanting to experience the joy of love in its fullest, most extravagant form. The song’s playful, jazz-infused melody and Sinatra’s smooth vocals express the desire to escape into a world of romance where nothing else matters. The lyrics use the metaphor of space travel to convey the excitement and wonder of falling in love, with the narrator wanting to be lifted away by the beauty of his connection with the person he desires.

“Fly Me to the Moon” is a joyful expression of wanting someone so much that the experience feels otherworldly. Sinatra’s effortless charm and the song’s lighthearted tone make it a celebration of love that’s as boundless as the stars.

#21 “No Ordinary Love” by Sade

Sade’s “No Ordinary Love” is a haunting, atmospheric song about longing for someone who has a profound, life-changing impact on your heart. The slow, sensual rhythm and Sade’s smooth, smoky vocals create an aura of intensity, reflecting the deep emotional pull the narrator feels toward the object of her affection. The lyrics speak of a love that transcends the ordinary, where the desire for the person is all-consuming and impossible to ignore.

The song’s ethereal production and emotional depth make it a poignant reflection on the kind of love that takes over your entire being. “No Ordinary Love” is a powerful testament to the desire for someone who stands out from the rest, creating an unforgettable connection.

#22 “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers

Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine” is a soulful, melancholic song about the longing and emptiness felt when the person you desire is absent. The song’s sparse arrangement and Withers’ raw, emotive vocals highlight the loneliness and heartache that come with wanting someone who is no longer there. The repetitive lyrics, especially the iconic “I know, I know,” emphasize the deep yearning and frustration of being separated from the one you love.

Withers captures the weight of unfulfilled desire, where every moment without the person feels like a shadow hanging over the narrator’s life. “Ain’t No Sunshine” is a timeless expression of the pain of longing for someone who brings light and warmth to your world.

#23 “Into You” by Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande’s “Into You” is an energetic, infectious pop song that captures the thrill of intense desire and attraction. The song’s pulsating beat and Grande’s sultry vocals create a sense of urgency and excitement, reflecting the overwhelming need to be close to someone you’re deeply drawn to. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, describing the electric chemistry between two people who can’t get enough of each other.

“Into You” is a celebration of the magnetic pull of desire, where every touch and glance feels electrifying. Grande’s vocal delivery and the song’s irresistible rhythm make it a fun, passionate ode to wanting someone with an all-encompassing intensity.

#24 “Faithfully” by Journey

Journey’s “Faithfully” is a powerful rock ballad about longing for someone while being separated by distance, yet remaining devoted to them. The song’s soaring melody and Steve Perry’s emotive vocals convey the deep desire to be with a loved one, even when life’s circumstances keep them apart. The lyrics reflect the narrator’s unwavering commitment, expressing both the heartache of separation and the hope of being reunited.

“Faithfully” speaks to the longing for emotional and physical closeness, with the desire to remain loyal and connected no matter the obstacles. It’s a timeless anthem for those who hold onto their love through the trials of distance and time, knowing that the bond will endure.

#25 “Yellow” by Coldplay

Coldplay’s “Yellow” is a gentle, heartfelt song about admiration and the overwhelming feeling of wanting someone so much that everything they do seems extraordinary. The song’s simple yet enchanting melody, combined with Chris Martin’s earnest vocals, creates an atmosphere of awe and affection. The lyrics describe the way love transforms the ordinary into something magical, with the person being compared to the brightness and beauty of the color yellow.

“Yellow” captures the essence of deep affection, where wanting someone makes the world feel brighter and more alive. It’s a song about seeing the person you love as the center of your universe, and feeling grateful for the way they light up your life.

#26 “Work Song” by Hozier

Hozier’s “Work Song” is a dark, soulful track about a love so powerful that it becomes a driving force in the narrator’s life. The song’s haunting melody and Hozier’s rich, emotive voice create a sense of devotion and longing, where the narrator is willing to endure any hardship for the person they desire. The lyrics use imagery of labor and toil to reflect the intensity of the narrator’s dedication, suggesting that love is worth the effort, no matter the cost.

“Work Song” is a tribute to the kind of desire that persists through struggle, where the connection between two people feels sacred and unbreakable. It’s a passionate declaration of wanting someone so deeply that you’re willing to sacrifice everything for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What emotions do songs about wanting someone typically convey?

Songs about wanting someone often convey emotions like longing, desire, hope, and sometimes heartbreak. These tracks capture the intensity of needing to be close to someone, whether emotionally or physically.

Why do people relate to songs about wanting someone?

People relate to these songs because they tap into universal feelings of love, attraction, and yearning. The desire to connect with someone is a common human experience, making these songs resonate on a deep emotional level.

What genres commonly feature songs about wanting someone?

Songs about wanting someone can be found across multiple genres, including pop, rock, R&B, and country. These genres often focus on relationships and emotional expression, making them perfect for exploring themes of desire.

Are there any famous songs about unrequited love and wanting someone?

Yes, songs like Adele’s “Someone Like You” and Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine” are famous for depicting unrequited love and the longing that comes with it. These songs express the pain and vulnerability of wanting someone who may not feel the same.