21 Songs About Missing Someone You Love With All Your Heart

In this collection, we have compiled 21 songs that express the heartache and longing of missing someone we love with all our heart. From classic ballads to modern pop hits, these songs span genres and eras, but all share a common thread of raw emotional power and honesty. Some of the songs are about romantic relationships, while others are about missing family members or friends, but all of them speak to the deep emotional pain that comes with missing someone important to us. Each of these songs captures a different facet of the experience of missing someone, from the ache of separation to the hope of reunion. Whether you are in the midst of missing someone or looking to process past experiences, these songs offer a powerful reminder that you are not alone in your feelings, and that music can be a source of healing and comfort in times of loss and longing.

1.“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd

“Wish You Were Here” is a poignant and introspective song by the legendary British rock band, Pink Floyd. Released in 1975, the track features melancholic lyrics that express feelings of isolation, disconnection, and loss. The song is dedicated to former band member, Syd Barrett, who suffered a mental breakdown and left the group in 1968. The music is beautifully crafted, featuring intricate guitar work and a haunting melody that perfectly captures the song’s emotional depth. “Wish You Were Here” has become an enduring classic, beloved by fans for its powerful message and stunning musicality, and has cemented its place as one of Pink Floyd’s greatest works.

2.“Miss You” by The Rolling Stones

“Miss You” is a funky and upbeat song by the legendary British rock band, The Rolling Stones. Released in 1978, the track features a distinctive disco-influenced sound, with a pulsating beat, catchy bassline, and infectious guitar riffs. The lyrics express feelings of loneliness and longing for a distant lover, with Mick Jagger’s signature vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and yearning. “Miss You” became an instant hit upon its release, reaching the top of the charts in both the US and the UK, and has since become a staple of classic rock radio. With its irresistible groove and heartfelt lyrics, “Miss You” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners to this day.

3.“So Far Away” by Dire Straits

“So Far Away” is a wistful and introspective song by the British rock band Dire Straits. Released in 1985, the track features a gentle melody, with Mark Knopfler’s distinctively understated vocals expressing a sense of longing and nostalgia for a loved one who is physically distant. The music is beautifully crafted, with intricate guitar work and a smooth rhythm that perfectly complements the song’s reflective tone. “So Far Away” has become a beloved classic, recognized for its emotional depth, musicality, and the genuine sense of yearning it evokes in listeners. It remains a testament to the band’s skill in crafting memorable and enduring music.

4.“Missing You” by Steve Perry

“Missing You” is a soulful and heartfelt ballad by American singer-songwriter Steve Perry. Released in 1994, the track features Perry’s powerful and emotive vocals, which express feelings of longing and heartache for a lost love. The music is stripped back, with a simple yet moving melody that perfectly captures the song’s poignant tone. “Missing You” became a chart-topping hit upon its release, and has since become a staple of soft rock radio. With its memorable chorus and emotional resonance, “Missing You” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners who have experienced the pain of losing someone they love.

5.“I Just Don’t Know What To Do With Myself” by The White Stripes

“I Just Don’t Know What To Do With Myself” is a haunting and melancholic song by the American rock duo, The White Stripes. Originally written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David in 1962, The White Stripes’ 2003 cover version features sparse instrumentation, with Jack White’s plaintive vocals conveying a deep sense of emptiness and despair. The music is built around a simple yet powerful piano riff, with occasional bursts of distorted guitar adding to the song’s haunting quality. “I Just Don’t Know What To Do With Myself” is a stunning example of the band’s ability to take a classic song and make it their own, imbuing it with their trademark rawness and emotional intensity.

6.“Far Away” by Nickelback

“Far Away” is a heartfelt and melodic song by Canadian rock band Nickelback. Released in 2006, the track features Chad Kroeger’s powerful vocals and a soaring chorus that express a sense of longing for a distant lover. The music is characterized by a driving rhythm, anthemic guitar riffs, and a memorable hook that perfectly captures the song’s emotive power. “Far Away” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on numerous charts worldwide and cementing its place as one of Nickelback’s most beloved songs. With its universal message of love and separation, “Far Away” has resonated with countless listeners and remains a testament to the band’s ability to craft powerful and emotional rock ballads.

7.“I’ll Be Missing You” by Puff Daddy featuring Faith Evans

“I’ll Be Missing You” is a poignant and heartfelt song by American rapper Puff Daddy, featuring singer Faith Evans. Released in 1997, the track is a tribute to the late rapper Notorious B.I.G., who was murdered earlier that year. The song features a sample of The Police’s “Every Breath You Take,” and the lyrics express Puff Daddy’s grief and sense of loss following his friend’s death. Faith Evans’ soulful vocals add to the song’s emotional resonance, and the music is beautifully crafted, with a powerful string arrangement and a stirring chorus. “I’ll Be Missing You” became a massive commercial success, topping charts worldwide and becoming an enduring classic that continues to resonate with listeners who have experienced the pain of losing someone they love.

8.“Thinkin’ Bout You” by Ariana Grande

“Thinkin’ Bout You” is a dreamy and introspective song by American singer Ariana Grande. Released in 2013, the track features Grande’s signature powerhouse vocals, which express a sense of yearning and nostalgia for a past lover. The music is understated, with a minimalist electronic beat and delicate piano chords that perfectly complement the song’s reflective tone. “Thinkin’ Bout You” showcases Grande’s vocal range and emotional depth, and has become a fan favorite, recognized for its honest lyrics and atmospheric sound. It remains a testament to Grande’s ability to craft powerful and moving pop ballads that resonate with listeners on a deep and personal level.

9.“Miss You Like Crazy” by Natalie Cole

“Miss You Like Crazy” is a 1989 ballad by American singer Natalie Cole. The song is a tender and emotive expression of longing for a lost love. The lyrics describe the singer’s intense feelings of missing and yearning for her ex-partner, as she reflects on the memories they shared together. The track is driven by a simple, yet powerful melody that complements Cole’s soulful vocals, backed by a lush arrangement of piano, strings, and percussion. The song became one of Cole’s biggest hits, reaching the top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning her a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Its timeless sentiment continues to resonate with listeners today.

10.“The Bed’s Too Big Without You” by The Police

“The Bed’s Too Big Without You” is a 1980 song by English rock band The Police. The track features a reggae-inspired rhythm and showcases Sting’s distinct vocals as he sings about the loneliness and emptiness of sleeping alone after a breakup. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an oversized bed and a heart that’s struggling to adjust to being alone. The song’s catchy melody, driving bassline, and infectious chorus create an irresistible and danceable groove that has become a fan favorite. “The Bed’s Too Big Without You” is a standout track from the band’s classic album “Reggatta de Blanc,” and a testament to their ability to infuse reggae with their unique rock sound.

11.“I Need My Girl” by The National

“I Need My Girl” is a 2013 indie rock ballad by American band The National. The song features a simple, yet poignant melody and lead singer Matt Berninger’s distinctive baritone voice, which perfectly captures the emotional intensity of the lyrics. The track explores the theme of lost love and the overwhelming need to reconnect with an ex-partner. The lyrics are introspective and melancholic, painting a vivid picture of the pain and loneliness of being without the one you love. The song’s understated instrumentation, including acoustic and electric guitars, piano, and drums, creates a delicate and intimate sound that perfectly complements the song’s introspective mood. “I Need My Girl” is a powerful and deeply affecting song that has become a fan favorite and a highlight of the band’s live shows.

12.“Reminds Me of You” by Van Morrison

“Reminds Me of You” is a 2003 track by legendary Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison. The song features a simple and infectious melody that captures the uplifting and joyful essence of the lyrics. The track celebrates the simple things in life, such as a beautiful sunset, a cool breeze, and the warm touch of a lover’s embrace. The lyrics highlight the power of memory and how even the smallest things can remind us of those we love. The song’s smooth and soulful instrumentation, including horns, organ, and guitar, perfectly complements Morrison’s soulful vocals and creates a warm and uplifting atmosphere. “Reminds Me of You” is a beautiful and life-affirming song that continues to resonate with listeners today.

13.“Lay Me Down” by Sam Smith

“Lay Me Down” is a 2013 soulful ballad by English singer Sam Smith. The song is a powerful and emotional love song that explores the theme of longing and the desire for intimacy with a loved one. The lyrics are introspective and poetic, describing the vulnerability and tenderness of a person laying down with their partner. The track features Smith’s soulful vocals that are filled with passion and intensity, backed by a lush arrangement of strings and piano that builds to an emotional climax. “Lay Me Down” became a massive hit for Smith, earning critical acclaim and solidifying his status as one of the most talented vocalists of his generation.

14.“Always” by Bon Jovi

“Always” is a 1994 power ballad by American rock band Bon Jovi. The song features an epic and anthemic melody that captures the intensity and passion of the lyrics. The track explores the theme of love and commitment, describing the lengths to which a person will go for their partner, even when things are difficult. The song’s soaring chorus and emotional guitar solo create a powerful and unforgettable climax that has become a fan favorite. “Always” was a massive hit for Bon Jovi, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and solidifying their status as one of the biggest rock bands of the 1990s.

15.“Thinkin’ Bout You” by Frank Ocean

“Thinkin’ Bout You” is a 2011 R&B track by American singer-songwriter Frank Ocean. The song features a stripped-down and minimalist production that puts Ocean’s soulful and emotional vocals at the forefront. The track explores the theme of love and heartbreak, describing the pain and longing of thinking about a past lover. The lyrics are introspective and introspective, painting a vivid picture of the emotional complexity of being in love. The song’s understated instrumentation, including gentle guitar and synth lines, creates a mellow and introspective mood that perfectly complements the lyrics. “Thinkin’ Bout You” is a beautiful and poignant song that has become a fan favorite and a highlight of Ocean’s discography.

16.“Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton

“Tears in Heaven” is a 1991 ballad by English guitarist and singer-songwriter Eric Clapton. The song is a heart-wrenching and emotive tribute to Clapton’s young son, who tragically died in a fall from a high-rise building. The lyrics are a deeply personal reflection on the pain and grief of losing a child, and the difficulty of coming to terms with the loss. The song features a simple yet powerful melody, with Clapton’s soulful vocals accompanied by acoustic guitar and piano. “Tears in Heaven” became a massive hit for Clapton, earning critical acclaim and touching the hearts of listeners around the world. It remains a timeless and hauntingly beautiful tribute to the power of love and loss.

17.“Missing You” by Diana Ross

“Missing You” is a 1984 R&B ballad by American singer Diana Ross. The song is a heartfelt and emotional tribute to Ross’s former Motown labelmate and friend, Marvin Gaye, who had recently passed away. The lyrics are a poignant reflection on the pain and loss of losing a loved one, and the overwhelming desire to be with them again. The song’s soaring chorus and orchestral arrangement create a powerful and unforgettable tribute to Gaye’s legacy. “Missing You” was a commercial and critical success for Ross, earning her a Grammy nomination and solidifying her status as one of the greatest vocalists of her generation

18.“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

“I Will Always Love You” is a 1992 power ballad by American singer Whitney Houston. The song is a powerful and emotive declaration of love and commitment, featuring soaring vocals and a lush, orchestral arrangement. Originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1973, Houston’s cover version became a massive hit and a cultural phenomenon, cementing her status as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. The song’s unforgettable chorus and Houston’s iconic performance have made it a classic love song that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. “I Will Always Love You” is a timeless and unforgettable tribute to the power of love and the enduring nature of human connection.

19.“So Far Away” by Carole King

“So Far Away” is a 1971 soft rock ballad by American singer-songwriter Carole King. The song is a poignant and introspective reflection on the loneliness and distance that can come with being away from loved ones. The lyrics are introspective and poetic, painting a vivid picture of the longing and yearning that comes with separation. The song’s gentle melody and King’s soulful vocals create a wistful and melancholic mood that perfectly captures the emotions of the lyrics. “So Far Away” is a timeless and hauntingly beautiful song that has become a classic of its era, and a testament to King’s exceptional talent as a songwriter and performer.

20.“Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers

“Ain’t No Sunshine” is a 1971 soul classic by American singer-songwriter Bill Withers. The song is a powerful and emotive exploration of the pain and heartbreak of lost love, featuring Withers’ soulful vocals and a minimalist arrangement consisting of only vocals, drums, and a few guitar chords. The lyrics are simple yet effective, repeating the phrase “I know” over and over to create a sense of despair and longing. The song’s haunting melody and raw emotional power have made it a classic of its genre, and a staple of popular music. “Ain’t No Sunshine” remains a timeless and unforgettable tribute to the enduring power of love and loss.

21.“Come Back, Be Here” by Taylor Swift

“Come Back, Be Here” is a 2012 pop ballad by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. The song is a heartfelt and emotive plea to a distant lover, asking them to return and be present in the relationship. The lyrics are introspective and honest, painting a vivid picture of the pain and longing that comes with long-distance relationships. The song’s gentle melody and Swift’s emotive vocals create a wistful and melancholic mood that perfectly captures the emotions of the lyrics. “Come Back, Be Here” is a poignant and relatable song that has become a fan favorite, showcasing Swift’s exceptional talent as a songwriter and performer.