Love can come at us when we least expect it. These moments of unexpected love can feel like a whirlwind, sweeping us off our feet and changing everything in an instant.
Many artists know this feeling all too well, which is why there are countless songs about falling in love unexpectedly.
In this post, we’ll take a look at 31 of the best songs about falling in love unexpectedly. They’re sure to captivate the hearts of listeners and transport them to a world of romance. Let’s get started!
1. “Unexpectedly” By Jason Chen
We begin our list with a song with “unexpectedly” in the title. An original composition of Taiwanese-American singer Jason Chen, “Unexpectedly” is a heartfelt love song that narrates how two long-time friends suddenly realize their feelings for each other.
The lyrics are just as poetic as they are relatable: “I’ve known you for five years and a day / Never once thought I’d have these words to say … / Suddenly, oh you caught me / so off guard, we fell in love so unexpectedly.”
Chen’s smooth voice and melodic piano accompaniment make this song the perfect choice to listen to when you’re falling for a friend who has been there all along.
2. “Serendipity” By Albert Posis
Next up, we have a song with unexpectedly in the lyrics by Filipino-American singer Albert Posis. “Serendipity” is an upbeat track that tells how chance encounters can lead to unexpected love.
The song also adds a depth of emotion by acknowledging that serendipity isn’t truly random, but rather, a result of the universe’s plan: “There might be people who just don’t understand / how two could fall for each other simply by chance / But it’s God who put us here ’cause He had a plan.”
“Serendipity” is a feel-good song that captures the thrill of falling in love unexpectedly and believing in fate at the same time.
3. “Unexpected Love” By Parker Pratt
Some love stories start with a simple friendship, and that’s exactly what indie singer-songwriter Parker Pratt sings about in “Unexpected Love.” This stripped-down acoustic track shows the beauty of falling in love with someone you already know so well.
The lyrics are honest and raw, reflecting on how unexpected love can catch us off guard but also make our hearts feel full: “Falling for you was so easy / We talked till 3 AM / and that was not the plan … / You’re all I ever wanted didn’t know you were my / unexpected love.”
The song is a beautiful reminder that love can happen in the most unexpected places and with someone we never thought could be “the one.”
4. “Butterflies” By Kacey Musgraves
When you go through the motions of falling in love unexpectedly, there’s a feeling that can’t be put into words. But country singer Kacey Musgraves comes pretty close with her song “Butterflies.”
A song that mentions unexpectedly falling in love indirectly, this track uses butterflies as a metaphor for the fluttering feeling when you fall for someone: “Now you’re lifting me up, ‘stead of holding me down … / Now, I remember what it feels like to fly / You give me butterflies.”
Musgraves’s sweet voice and the dreamy melody of “Butterflies” is a perfect representation of the blissful feeling of finding love again in ways we never thought possible.
5. “How Did I Fall In Love With You?” By Backstreet Boys
When you’ve known someone for so long that you treat each other like siblings, it can come as a shock when feelings suddenly change. Backstreet Boys‘ “How Did I Fall in Love with You?” perfectly describes this situation.
The song talks about the disbelief of falling for someone unexpectedly: “What did I say? What did you do? / How did I fall in love with you?”
As the song progresses, it crescendos into a powerful bridge, reflecting the intensity of the singer’s feelings: “I don’t wanna live this life / I don’t wanna say goodbye / With you, I wanna spend / the rest of my life.”
The rawness of the lyrics adds a layer of vulnerability to the song, making it relatable for anyone who has fallen irrevocably in love with a childhood friend.
6. “Unexpected Love” By Charice
When you’ve had your heart broken into pieces, it’s hard to believe that love can come out of nowhere. But that’s what Charice‘s “Unexpected Love” is all about — finding love when you least expect it.
Charice, now known as Jake Zyrus, sings about the hesitation and fear that comes with opening up to someone new: “My heart left to pieces / You put it together / and made my life be whole again … / When it’s all said and done / it was all unexpected love.”
A mellow and heartfelt ballad, “Unexpected Love” is a reminder that sometimes the best love stories are the ones that come after the most painful experiences. It’s a beautiful representation of how love can heal even the most broken hearts.
7. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” By Haley Reinhart
Some classic songs never lose their charm, and Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is one of them. But Haley Reinhart‘s cover gives it a whole new meaning.
Reinhart’s version transforms this classic love song into a soulful ballad perfect for those who unexpectedly fall in love: “Wise men say / only fools rush in / But I can’t help / falling in love with you.”
The soft, dreamy tune and Reinhart’s angelic voice make this song a favorite for brides-to-be, bringing to life the magic of unexpected love.
8. “It’s You” By MAX Ft. Keshi
The term “falling in love” might sound cliché, but it perfectly captures the feeling of unexpectedly finding someone who is just right for you. That’s exactly what MAX‘s song “It’s You” expresses.
Featuring Vietnamese-American artist Keshi, this track talks about the ease of falling for someone who makes everything feel natural and effortless: “It’s you / Loving’s so easy to do … / I met you at the right time / See you and I’m still excited.”
The simple and relatable lyrics of “It’s You” make it a perfect song for anyone who has unexpectedly fallen in love with the right person at the right time.
9. “Terrified” By Katharine McPhee
The helpless feeling when you fall for someone can be both exhilarating and terrifying. And that’s exactly what Katharine McPhee‘s “Terrified” shows — the fear of falling in love too soon, too fast.
With lyrics like “I’m at the edge of my emotions / watching the shadows burning in the dark / And I’m in love, and I’m terrified,” this song, which is a powerful duet with Zachary Levi, perfectly portrays the vulnerability and uncertainty that comes with falling for someone unexpectedly.
“Terrified” is a beautiful reminder that love can be scary, but it’s also worth taking a chance on. So don’t be afraid to take a chance on unexpected love — it might just lead you to your happily ever after.
10. “Written In The Stars” By WENDY & John Legend
Fate and destiny play a big role in unexpected love, and WENDY of Red Velvet and John Legend‘s collaboration “Written in the Stars” perfectly expresses that feeling.
The song talks about the struggle of resisting love because it came out of nowhere but ultimately giving in because it feels like fate: “Don’t tell me you don’t feel what I feel right now … / It’s written all over you … / You can go any which way, don’t matter how far / because I know we’re written in the stars.”
WENDY’s sweet vocals combined with Legend’s soulful voice make this song a perfect tribute to the idea of unexpected love being written in the stars. It’s a reminder that, sometimes, fate has a way of bringing us to the right person at the most unexpected time.
11. “Parachute” By John K
There’s a certain rush that comes with falling in love unexpectedly — it’s like jumping off a plane without a parachute and hoping for the best. That’s exactly what John K‘s song “Parachute” talks about.
With its catchy beat and lyrics like “If that’s the consequence of lovin’ you / then I will fall without a parachutе,” this song is perfect for capturing the excitement and uncertainty of falling in love when you least expect it.
John K’s soulful voice combined with the relatable lyrics makes “Parachute” a must-listen for anyone who has experienced the thrill of unexpected love. It’s a reminder that sometimes, taking a leap of faith can lead to the most beautiful love story.
12. “Electric Love” By Børns
Love can feel like a multitude of things, and Børns‘s “Electric Love” describes it as a powerful and electrifying force that takes over when you least expect it.
With its upbeat, catchy tune and lines like “Baby, you’re like lightning in a bottle / I can’t let you go now that I got it,” this song captures the electrifying feeling of falling in love unexpectedly.
The metaphorical language used in “Electric Love” makes it a unique and memorable song that perfectly encompasses the excitement and intensity of unexpected love. It’s an ode to the unpredictable yet exhilarating journey of falling for someone who ignites a spark within you.
13. “Falling Fast” By Avril Lavigne
Heartaches from past relationships can make us hesitant to fall in love again, but when it happens unexpectedly, it can feel like you’re losing control. Avril Lavigne‘s “Falling Fast” describes the whirlwind of emotions that come with falling for someone you didn’t expect.
With its punk-rock vibe and relatable lyrics like “I never knew I needed you / like a sad song needs a sea of lighters,” this song is an anthem for anyone who has suddenly developed feelings for someone they didn’t see coming.
“Falling Fast” is a reminder that it’s okay to let go and allow yourself to fall for someone, even if it scares you. Because sometimes, the best things in life happen when we don’t plan them.
14. “Invisible Strings” By Taylor Swift
In life, we often cross paths with people who seem to have a profound impact on us, even if we don’t quite understand why. Taylor Swift‘s “Invisible Strings” tells the story of falling in love unexpectedly and realizing there may have been invisible strings tying you and your partner together all along.
The lyrics “Time, curious time / gave me no compasses, gave me no signs / Were there clues I didn’t see?” perfectly describe that feeling of finally understanding why you were meant to meet this person at this particular time in your life.
“Invisible Strings” is a beautiful reminder that love can find us when we least expect it and that there may be forces beyond our control guiding us toward our soulmate.
15. “Fallin’ All In You” By Shawn Mendes
In the modern dating world, many people are hesitant to take the risk of falling in love after just one night with someone. However, Shawn Mendes‘s “Fallin’ All in You” challenges that notion and tells the story of falling for someone unexpectedly during a one-night stand.
The lyrics “This was only ever meant to be for one night / Still, we’re changing our minds here / Be yours, be my dear” express the idea of letting go and embracing the unexpected when it comes to love.
At its core, “Fallin’ All in You” is a song about taking chances and falling in love with someone who may have just been a stranger before the night began.
16. “She” By Dodie
There are certain situations in life where we find ourselves falling in love with someone who doesn’t seem to see us in the same way. Dodie‘s “She” tells the story of slowly developing feelings for a friend while desperately hoping they will reciprocate.
An LGBTQ+ anthem, the lyrics “No, I’d never say a word / and oh, it aches / but it feels oddly good to hurt” sings of the intense emotions and the yearning for someone who may never see us as more than a friend.
“She” is a raw portrayal of unrequited love with someone you didn’t expect to fall for and the struggle of coming to terms with those feelings.
So if you find yourself in this situation, know that you’re not alone, and there is beauty in loving someone even if they may never love you back.
17. “Lucky” By Jason Mraz Ft. Colbie Caillat
Best friends often make the best romantic partners because they already know and understand each other so well. Jason Mraz‘s “Lucky,” featuring Colbie Caillat, tells the story of two friends who have fallen in love and how lucky they feel to have found each other.
The lyrics “Lucky I’m in love with my best friend … / Lucky to be coming home again” encapsulate the feeling of finding love in an unexpected place and realizing that your best friend has been the one for you all along.
“Lucky” is a sweet and romantic song that reminds us to never overlook the people closest to us when it comes to finding true love.
18. “In Case You Didn’t Know” By Brett Young
Often, when we spend plenty of time with someone, it’s easy to look past the romantic potential of our relationship. Brett Young‘s “In Case You Didn’t Know” is a romantic country pop song about falling in love with a friend and hoping they see us in that same light.
The lyrics express Young’s admiration and longing for someone he considers a friend: “In case you didn’t know, / baby, I’m crazy ’bout you … / You had my heart a long, long time ago / in case you didn’t know.”
The song is a beautiful ode to realizing your feelings for someone and taking the risk of telling them how you feel, even if they may seem oblivious. There’s strength in vulnerability, and “In Case You Didn’t Know” celebrates that.
19. “Love At First Sight” By Styx
While many may dismiss the idea of love at first sight as something from fairytales, Styx‘s “Love at First Sight” celebrates that intense and instant connection with someone.
The lyrics describe the feeling of seeing someone for the first time and knowing that there is something special between you: “You and I / strangers lost in a moment / Eye to eye / we were caught unaware by this passion inside us.”
It’s a powerful love song that reminds us that, sometimes, love can hit us when we least expect it. Whether it’s across a crowded room or through a screen, love at first sight is an experience only a few are lucky enough to have.
20. “Falling In Love At A Coffee Shop” By Landon Pigg
It’s easy to fall in love with someone you know, but falling in love with a stranger is a different experience altogether. Landon Pigg‘s “Falling in Love at a Coffee Shop” is a sweet and dreamy song about exactly that — falling for someone you see at your favorite coffee spot every day.
The lyrics paint the picture of two people who share a connection without even speaking: “I think that possibly / maybe I’m falling for you.” Pigg also captures the atmosphere of cozy cafés and the feeling of being lost in your thoughts as you watch someone from afar.
With its acoustic sound and romantic lyrics, this song paints the magic of finding love in unexpected places and with someone we may have never noticed otherwise.
21. “I Knew I Loved You” By Savage Garden
Trains can be the least romantic of meet-cute places, but Savage Garden‘s “I Knew I Loved You” proves that love can bloom anywhere. The song tells the story of two strangers who meet on a train and experience an instant connection.
The lyrics describe the feeling of knowing you’ve found your soulmate in someone you just met: “And in your eyes, I see the missing pieces (I’m searching for) / I think I found my way home … / I knew I loved you before I met you / I think I dreamed you into life.”
“I Knew I Loved You” celebrates the serendipitous nature of love and how, sometimes, we just know when we’ve found the right person.
22. “Fresh Eyes” By Andy Grammer
When you’ve known someone for so long, it can feel like you’ve seen all there is to see. But Andy Grammer‘s “Fresh Eyes” reminds us that sometimes, we just need to look a little closer to discover something new and beautiful about the people we love.
The lyrics are all about the feeling of falling for someone all over again: “I got these fresh eyes, never seen you before like this / My God, you’re beautiful … / So suddenly, I’m in love with a stranger … / Now all I see is you with fresh eyes.”
“Fresh Eyes” is an upbeat track that celebrates the beauty of rediscovering love and seeing someone we thought we knew in a new light. It’s a refreshing reminder to never stop appreciating the ones we love.
23. “Ehu Girl” By Kolohe Kai
Parties are a great place to meet new people, and sometimes, a chance encounter can lead to something more. Kolohe Kai‘s “Ehu Girl” is a catchy reggae track about falling for someone at a party.
The immediate chemistry between two strangers is clear in the lyrics: “We’re standing in the right place at the right time … / You set my heart on fire / and now, I’m so in love with you / My ehu girl.”
“Ehu” is a Hawaiian word for the color of windswept, dark hair with reddish highlights. The song captures the feeling of being swept off your feet by someone you just met and how they can quickly become your entire world.
24. “I Think I’m In Love” By Kat Dahlia
Love can take us by surprise, and Kat Dahlia‘s “I Think I’m in Love” is a raw and honest song about that experience. The lyrics describe the internal struggle of resisting love after being hurt before: “I’m trying hard to trust you / when you say, ‘Give me your hand.’”
Despite her hesitations, the protagonist can’t ignore her feelings anymore and realizes she’s falling in love: “I think I’m in love again … / I didn’t think it could be true / let alone that it would be you.”
“I Think I’m in Love” is a relatable track for anyone who has been hurt before but found themselves unable to resist the pull of love when it comes knocking.
25. “Turning Page” By Sleeping At Last
When you’ve spent years in solitude, the idea of falling in love can be both terrifying and exhilarating. Sleeping at Last‘s “Turning Page” showcases this feeling perfectly.
The song was featured in the film The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, where the film’s protagonist, Bella, is the first love of the immortal Edward.
The lyrics describe the hesitation of the narrator to take the leap of falling in love: “Nothing prepared me for / what the privilege of being yours would do … / Your love is my turning page.”
“Turning Page” is a beautiful, haunting track that speaks to the power of love to change even the most hardened hearts. It’s a reminder that, sometimes, taking a chance on love can lead us to our greatest happiness.
26. “Beginning, Middle, End” By Leah Nobel
A perfect soundtrack for the film To All the Boys: Always and Forever, Leah Nobel’s “Beginning, Middle, End” is an insightful song about falling for someone when you least expect it and how, years down the line, you’ve found yourself navigating your relationship together.
The lyrics tell of the uncertainty and excitement about the future: “When they ask why, I can never explain / but a symphony played when you told me your name … / Will you be my beginning, my middle, my end?”
The song is a sweet and romantic track that reminds us to cherish every moment with the ones we love, even if the future is uncertain.
27. “Accidentally In Love” By Counting Crows
Some fairytales don’t always involve a prince and princess, and that’s exactly what Counting Crows‘ “Accidentally in Love” reminds us of.
The energetic love song is featured in the movie Shrek 2, where we see the unlikely romance between an ogre and a human princess who has been cursed to be an ogress.
The lyrics express the excitement and disbelief of falling in love with someone unexpected: “So she said, ‘What’s the problem baby?’ / What’s the problem? I don’t know / Well, maybe I’m in love.”
“Accidentally in Love” is a fun and lighthearted track that gives us hope that love can be found in the most unexpected places and with the most unlikely of people.
28. “I See The Light” By Many Moore & Zachary Levi
A duet by Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi, “I See the Light” is from Disney’s Tangled, a song that perfectly narrates the magic of developing feelings for someone you initially disliked but grew to love.
The lyrics illustrate the beauty of discovering love and its ability to change our perspective: “And at last, I see the light / and it’s like the sky is new … / All at once everything looks different / now that I see you.”
“I See the Light” is a sweet and dreamy soundtrack that serves as a reminder that, sometimes, it takes an unexpected journey to find our happily ever after.
29. “I Won’t Say (I’m In Love)” By Susan Egan
Some love stories can be complicated, just like the one between Megara and Hercules in Disney’s Hercules. In the song “I Won’t Say (I’m In Love),” sung by Broadway singer Susan Egan, Meg grapples with her feelings for Hercules while trying to stay loyal to the villain she works for.
The lyrics showcase the internal battle of denying love: “I thought my heart had learned its lesson / It feels so good when you start out … / No chance, no way / I won’t say it, no, no … / At least out loud / I won’t say I’m in love.”
“I Won’t Say (I’m In Love)” is a catchy and playful song that reminds us of the struggles we face when it comes to love and how, sometimes, denying it only makes it stronger.
30. “Beauty And The Beast” By Céline Dion & Peabo Bryson
Disney has created many iconic love stories, but one that stands out is the tale of Belle and the Beast. The soundtrack “Beauty and the Beast,” sung by Céline Dion and Peabo Bryson, shows their journey from being two very different individuals to falling in love.
The lyrics describe the initial hesitation and eventual acceptance of each other: “Barely even friends / then somebody bends / unexpectedly … / Both a little scared / neither one prepared / beauty and the beast.”
The powerful and soulful voices of Dion and Bryson make the track a classic love song that reminds us to look beyond appearances and see the true beauty within.
31. “So This Is Love” By Ilene Woods & Mike Douglas
Happily, ever afters are given in many fairytales, and more so if it’s your first encounter with love. In Disney’s Cinderella, the track “So This Is Love,” sung by Ilene Woods and Mike Douglas, show us the magic of falling in love for the first time.
The lyrics paint a dreamy picture of newfound love: “So this is love / so this is what makes life divine / I’m all aglow / and now I know.”
The story’s context also adds to the charm, as Cinderella and Prince Charming’s chemistry is undeniable from their first dance together.
With Woods’ angelic voice and Douglas’ smooth vocals, “So This Is Love” makes us believe in fairytales and the power of love at first sight.
Summing Up Our List Of Songs About Unexpected Love
From friendship turning into romance to finding love after heartbreak, these songs capture the different ways in which we may unexpectedly fall in love.
So whether you’re already caught up in a whirlwind romance or waiting for your own unexpected love story to unfold, these songs are sure to touch your heart and evoke those warm fuzzy feelings.
Do you have other songs in mind about sudden and unexpected love? Share it with us — we’d be glad to update our playlist!
