15 Best Songs About Forbidden Love

Love is a complex emotion that can lead us down paths we never imagined. One of the most intense forms of love is one society deems forbidden. Forbidden love can take many forms, from societal taboos to family or religious restrictions. 

Despite the challenges, love often finds a way to thrive in adversity. Unsurprisingly, these tumultuous affairs have inspired artists across the generations and created songs that explore the beauty and pain of forbidden love.

Songs about forbidden love are some of the most poignant and captivating pieces of music. They often explore the tension and drama of love deemed inappropriate by society, highlighting the intensity of the passion that can arise in these situations. 

Through these songs, artists have given voice to the pain and heartbreak that can come with forbidden love and the hope and longing that keep people fighting for their love despite the obstacles.

Careless Whisper – George Michael

George Michael’s 1984 hit “Careless Whisper” is a timeless classic that epitomizes the theme of forbidden love. The song, which falls under the pop ballad genre, tells the story of a man struggling to keep his affair with a woman a secret. 

The lyrics capture the emotional turmoil of forbidden love, with the protagonist acknowledging the wrongness of his actions but unable to resist the allure of his lover.

The overall impression of “Careless Whisper” is a hauntingly beautiful melody accompanied by Michael’s soulful voice. The song’s memorable saxophone solo adds to its appeal, making it a beloved favorite across generations. 

The song’s success is unsurprising, given Michael’s reputation as a talented musician and songwriter. His ability to craft relatable lyrics and infuse them with heartfelt emotion makes “Careless Whisper” stand out as one of the greatest songs about forbidden love.

Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley is a timeless classic that has been enchanting listeners since its release in 1961. The song falls under the rock and roll ballad genre and is considered one of the greatest love songs ever. 

The lyrics depict a narrative of an irresistible and intense love that challenges the norms and transcends boundaries, even in situations where it may be deemed forbidden or impossible. Elvis’s smooth and velvety voice perfectly captures the romantic essence of the song, making it an unforgettable masterpiece.

The overall impression of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is pure, unadulterated love. The lyrics express a profound connection between two people, despite any obstacles or societal norms that may stand in their way. The song’s beauty lies in its simplicity and timeless quality, which allows it to resonate with listeners across generations. 

The songwriters originally composed the song for the 1961 film “Blue Hawaii,” Many artists have covered it, securing its place in the annals of music history. With its heartfelt lyrics and mesmerizing melody, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is undoubtedly one of the greatest songs about forbidden love.

I Want to Know What Love Is – Foreigner

“I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner is a timeless classic that perfectly captures the emotions and struggles of forbidden love. The power ballad, which falls under the rock genre, features soulful vocals and captivating instrumentals that tug at the heartstrings. 

The lyrics speak of a yearning to understand and experience the true meaning of love, even in the face of societal taboos and obstacles.

The overall impression of the song is one of deep longing and vulnerability, as the lyrics explore the complexities of forbidden love and the desire to overcome them. The band’s passionate performance, sweeping chorus, and powerful crescendos make it an anthem for anyone who has ever loved against the odds. 

With its timeless appeal and universal themes, “I Want to Know What Love Is” remains a beloved classic.

Your Love Is King – Sade

Sade’s “Your Love Is King” is an exquisite ballad that belongs on any list of the best songs about forbidden love. This 1984 hit from the Nigerian-British singer’s debut album, “Diamond Life,” combines jazz, R&B, and pop elements to create a genre-bending masterpiece that still sounds fresh and timeless today. 

The lyrics illustrate a love that is both intense and forbidden as the singer pines for an unattainable partner. Sade’s soulful vocals and the song’s lush instrumentation, including a stunning saxophone solo, make “Your Love Is King” a sensual and unforgettable listening experience.

Despite being released almost 40 years ago, “Your Love Is King” remains a staple of Sade’s live shows and a beloved classic in music. The song’s success helped launch Sade’s career and established her as a unique and captivating artist who could seamlessly blend different genres and styles. 

With its themes of desire, longing, and passion, “Your Love Is King” captures the essence of forbidden love and continues to inspire listeners to this day.

Romeo and Juliet – Dire Straits

One of the most iconic songs about forbidden love is “Romeo and Juliet” by Dire Straits. Released in 1980 as part of their album “Making Movies,” this song has become a classic in the rock genre. 

With its soft and melodic guitar riffs, it perfectly captures the bittersweet nature of forbidden love. The lyrics tell the story of two lovers who come from different worlds and cannot be together, just like the characters from Shakespeare’s tragic play.

The overall impression of “Romeo and Juliet” is a feeling of sadness and longing. The music and lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and regret for a love that could never be. The band’s frontman, Mark Knopfler, sings the vocals with a gentle and melancholy tone that adds to the song’s emotional impact. 

The beauty of the melody and the poignant lyrics make this song a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.

I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston

Regarding songs about forbidden love, Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” is a standout classic. The song, released in 1992, is a power ballad that showcases Houston’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth. It’s a genre-defining track has become a staple at weddings, funerals, and every karaoke bar worldwide.

The history of “I Will Always Love You” dates back to 1974, written and recorded by country music legend Dolly Parton. Houston recorded the song for the soundtrack of the film “The Bodyguard,” and it soared to immense popularity, spending 14 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 chart. 

The song went on to win numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and the title of the best-selling single by a female artist of all time. “I Will Always Love You” is a timeless masterpiece that will continue to be loved and cherished for generations.

Love is a Losing Game – Amy Winehouse

“Love is a Losing Game” by Amy Winehouse is a soulful ballad that speaks of the pain and regret that often accompanies forbidden love. The song, released in 2007, is a poignant reminder of the emotional turmoil that can arise when we give our hearts to someone we know we cannot have.

With its haunting melody and Winehouse’s signature soulful vocals, “Love is a Losing Game” is a timeless classic that resonates with listeners worldwide. The lyrics speak of a love destined to fail, yet the protagonist still finds herself unable to let go. 

The song’s raw emotion and honesty make it one of the best examples of forbidden love songs in the genre of soul and R&B.

The history of “Love is a Losing Game” is as tragic as beautiful. Winehouse wrote the song, drawing inspiration from her encounters with unrequited love. Sadly, the song was released just a year before Winehouse’s death, making it all the more poignant. 

Despite the song’s melancholy theme, its legacy lives on, and it remains one of the most influential and evocative songs about forbidden love ever written.

Total Eclipse of the Heart – Bonnie Tyler

“Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler is a timeless classic that has captivated listeners since its release in 1983. The power ballad falls under the rock genre and showcases Tyler’s incredible vocals backed by soaring instrumentation. 

The song’s lyrics explore the theme of forbidden love, with Tyler describing the intense emotions of being in love with someone unattainable. The lyrics contain metaphors and vivid imagery, depicting heartache and yearning. The song’s chorus is particularly iconic, with Tyler belting out the now-famous line “turn around, bright eyes,” which has become a pop culture staple.

The song’s history is also worth noting. Jim Steinman, known for his collaborations with Meat Loaf, wrote the song for a musical adaptation of the renowned novel “Wuthering Heights.” However, Steinman never completed the project and decided to reuse the song for Tyler.

The song became an instant hit, topping the charts in several countries and cementing Tyler’s status as a pop icon. The music video for the song is also noteworthy, featuring Tyler in a Gothic castle and a group of choir boys performing the chorus. 

Overall, “Total Eclipse of the Heart” remains a classic example of forbidden love in popular music and is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys powerful ballads.

Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers

“Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers is one of the most iconic love songs ever. With its soulful lyrics and haunting melody, this classic tune has stood the test of time since its release in 1965. The genre of the song is a mix of soul and pop, with a touch of rock and roll.

The lyrics of the song are all about forbidden love. 

The singer longs to be with his beloved but cannot do so. Despite the obstacles, the singer’s love for his partner is unbreakable. The song’s overall impression is heartbreak and longing, but it’s also a testament to the power of true love. The vocals of the Righteous Brothers are potent in this song, evoking a sense of raw emotion that is impossible to ignore.

The Righteous Brothers were a duo consisting of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield. They formed in the early 1960s and were known for their soulful sound and impressive vocal range. “Unchained Melody” was not initially written for them, but they made it their own with their powerful rendition. 

Countless artists have since covered the song, but the Righteous Brothers’ version remains iconic. The song has also been featured in numerous films and TV shows, cementing its status as a timeless classic.

Every Breath You Take – The Police

One of the most iconic songs about forbidden love, “Every Breath You Take” by The Police, is a hauntingly beautiful track that has stood the test of time. This song, released in 1983, is a prime example of the new wave and post-punk genres popular in the 80s. 

The simple yet effective melody and the introspective lyrics make it a perfect choice for those in love with someone they shouldn’t be.

The song’s lyrics revolve around a man deeply in love with someone but can’t be with them. He watches their every move and breath, wishing he could be the one they love. 

Despite the seemingly romantic nature of the lyrics, the song has a sinister undertone that speaks to the possessiveness and obsession that can come with unrequited love. The overall impression of “Every Breath You Take” is melancholy and longing, mixed with a sense of danger and desperation that only adds to its appeal.

The One That Got Away – Katy Perry

Katy Perry’s “The One That Got Away” is a heart-wrenching ballad that conveys the pain of losing a love that couldn’t be. This pop-rock genre song captures the emotions of forbidden love in a hauntingly beautiful way. 

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple whose love was strong but ultimately could not survive the pressures of their circumstances. The song captures the bittersweet feeling of reminiscing on a lost love and the painful realization that it is forever gone.

While Katy Perry has had many hit songs throughout her career, “The One That Got Away” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners. The song’s powerful message about the pain of lost love has made it a favorite among those who have experienced the same heartbreak and longing. 

With its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics, “The One That Got Away” is a must-listen for anyone who the power of forbidden love has ever touched.

The Lady in Red – Chris De Burgh

“The Lady in Red” by Chris De Burgh is an iconic ballad that perfectly captures the essence of forbidden love. This romantic track, released in 1986, became an instant hit, topping charts in several countries, including the UK, Ireland, and Canada. 

The song is classified as a pop-rock genre and features soft, melodic tunes, with De Burgh’s soulful voice taking center stage.

Lyrically, the song tells the story of a man who falls in love with a beautiful woman he sees across a crowded room. Despite being in a committed relationship, he can’t help but be drawn to her, feeling an irresistible attraction he knows he shouldn’t act on. 

The song’s lyrics explore the internal struggle of forbidden love and the pain and longing that comes with it. De Burgh’s emotional delivery perfectly captures the intensity of this feeling, making “The Lady in Red” a timeless classic that still resonates with listeners today.

Overall, “The Lady in Red” is a beautifully crafted song that captures the essence of forbidden love with stunning accuracy. It’s no wonder the track has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite of music lovers worldwide. 

As for Chris De Burgh, he remains one of the most successful singer-songwriters of his time, with a career that spans over four decades. With his talent for storytelling and ability to evoke powerful emotions through music, it’s clear that De Burgh’s legacy will continue to endure for many years.

I Want You – Elvis Costello

Elvis Costello’s “I Want You” is a haunting and powerful track that explores the dark side of desire and the agony of forbidden love. The song falls under the new wave genre and is known for its sparse instrumentation, with Costello’s voice and a simple guitar riff driving the emotional intensity of the piece. 

The lyrics of “I Want You” are raw and intense, expressing the depths of the protagonist’s yearning for a lover who is unattainable or forbidden. Through vivid imagery and poetic language, Costello captures the all-consuming nature of obsession and the pain that comes with it.

The song was first released on Costello’s 1986 album “Blood and Chocolate” and has since become a beloved classic in his catalog. The band Elvis Costello and the Attractions was a mainstay of the new wave and punk scenes in the late 1970s and early 1980s. 

Costello celebrates blending various genres and influences in his music with his sharp wit and biting lyrics. “I Want You” remains one of the standout tracks in his discography and a testament to his talent as a songwriter and performer.

Love Stinks – The J. Geils Band

One cannot overlook The J. Geils Band’s “Love Stinks” when it comes to songs about forbidden love, as it has become a classic. This rock anthem, released in 1980, perfectly captures the frustration and heartache of being in love with someone you can’t have. 

With its catchy chorus and driving guitar riffs, “Love Stinks” is a timeless example of the power of music to express our deepest emotions.

The lyrics of “Love Stinks” are straightforward and relatable. The song speaks to the pain and confusion that comes with loving someone who doesn’t love you back or is simply out of reach. 

The song’s message is clear: whether someone has a crush they can’t act upon or is in a forbidden relationship for some other reason, love can be messy, complicated, and downright painful. Despite the heavy subject matter, the upbeat tempo and catchy melody of “Love Stinks” make it a fun and energetic anthem that’s sure to get stuck in your head.

Somebody Else’s Guy – Jocelyn Brown

One of the most iconic songs about forbidden love, Jocelyn Brown’s “Somebody Else’s Guy” is a disco and funk classic from the early 1980s. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus mask the heart-wrenching story of a woman who falls in love with a man who belongs to someone else. Brown’s soulful vocals bring a depth of emotion to the lyrics, making it impossible not to feel the pain of unrequited love.

Despite being released over 30 years ago, “Somebody Else’s Guy” still captures audiences with its timeless message about the complications of love. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody might make you want to dance, but its lyrics tell a different story. 

Brown sings about the hurt and longing of loving someone already taken, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has ever experienced unrequited love. As one of the most famous disco and funk tracks of the 80s, “Somebody Else’s Guy” cemented Jocelyn Brown’s status as a musical icon.

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Best Songs About Forbidden Love Recap

In conclusion, songs about forbidden love have existed for centuries and continue to captivate listeners. These songs often tell a story of love that is deemed inappropriate or goes against societal norms. They explore the pain, heartache, and exhilaration of falling in love with someone who is forbidden.

Despite the challenges and obstacles, forbidden love remains a popular theme in music, reflecting the complexity of human emotions and relationships. It allows us to explore the depths of our desires and the consequences of our actions. Songs about forbidden love are a reminder that love is not always easy, but it is worth fighting for, even if it goes against what others may think or say.