31 Of The Best Songs About Long-Distance Relationships

Written by Dan Farrant

Are you in a long-distance relationship? It may sound daunting to couples who have not been separated from each other for a long time. However, there have been success stories of couples who are in a long-distance relationship.

It’s not to say that it’s a walk in the park. There are rewards as well as challenges when you love someone from afar. But the good thing is, you are not alone.

Throughout the years, artists wove narratives about long-distance love and turned them into songs. So the next time you miss your better half, listen to these 31 of the best songs about long-distance relationships.

1. “From Where You Are” By Lifehouse

Living far away from your beloved is bound to make you miss a lot of things. Lifehouse‘s “From Where You Are” is a narrative of sadness and hope that often coexists in long-distance relationships.

Released in 2007, the song captures the essence of long-distance relationships. The lyrics are full of pain and longing as the narrator laments their separation. He misses everything about her and wishes she was with him to share the moment.

At its core, the song reflects the emotional turmoil of being physically distant from a loved one. The yearning to be close to the person you love is a sentiment that many can resonate with.

2. “Jet Lag” By Simple Plan Ft. Natasha Bedingfield

Released in 2011, “Jet Lag” is a collaboration between Simple Plan and Natasha Bedingfield. The song is about the difficulties of maintaining a long-distance relationship.

One of the things the song highlights is being in different time zones. This adds to the physical separation and emotional longing that long distance entails. It captures the longing to see the other person and the constant waiting that becomes a part of their lives.

The term “jet lag” is a metaphor for the disoriented feeling of being away from your beloved. Loneliness and confusion become one’s constant companion.

3. “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever By Taylor Swift And Zayn

Couples who are in long-distance relationships often have to deal with longing and despair. This is the sentiment that Taylor Swift and Zayn sing about in “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever.”

The lyrics reflect the emotional turmoil associated with being in a long-distance relationship. The narrator expresses the pain and despair about the future without their loved one by their side. This reflects the loneliness and anticipation inherent in such relationships.

The song is relatable to couples who are apart from each other. It’s understandable when you feel the pain of sitting with “eyes wide open” while waiting for them to be reunited with you.

4. “Long Distance” By Bruno Mars

From the few songs with “long distance” in the title, nothing is as straightforward as this one by Bruno Mars. “Long Distance” dives deep into the emotional complexities of such relationships.

The narrator longs for his partner, expressing difficulty over the distance that separates them. And while they can maintain an emotional and mental connection, the physical distance takes a toll on them. This sentiment is summed up in the line, “This long distance is killing me.”

In essence, “Long Distance” taps into feelings of longing and missing a partner who’s away. It provides an easily relatable narrative for people in long-distance relationships.

5. “Wish You Were Here” By Avril Lavigne

In “Wish You Were Here,” Avril Lavigne captures the essence of longing and missing someone. The ballad was part of her album Goodbye Lullaby, released in 2011.

Lyrically, the narrator talks about missing someone she loves and can’t get him out of her mind. She expresses fear over the possibility of losing him. This can be considered as the insecurity and anxiety that arise in long-distance relationships. The lack of physical presence can lead to doubts and fears.

In a broader sense, the song captures the emotional struggle when you miss the presence of your partner. It’s an anthem of hope that encourages listeners to stay strong despite the challenges of a long-distance relationship.

6. “Many The Miles” By Sara Bareilles

When you love, no distance seems too great. Love inspires you to do things you think you’d never do for someone. This is the message behind Sara Bareilles‘s “Many the Miles.”

The lyrics convey the narrator’s determination and willingness to follow her lover wherever he is. The song is about her perseverance and unwavering commitment to find him despite the obstacles in the way.

“Many the Miles” speaks to the endurance and dedication to maintain a relationship across physical distance. The title itself can be interpreted as the physical distance between lovers and the journey they take to keep their love alive.

7. “All Of The Stars” By Ed Sheeran

Released in 2014, Ed Sheeran‘s “All of the Stars” is a valuable addition to our list. It captures the feelings and experiences associated with long-distance relationships.

The song is about someone separated from his beloved by physical distance. This is represented metaphorically by the expanse of the night sky.

The narrator misses his significant other and reminisces about their time spent together. But despite the distance, he remains hopeful that their connection remains strong.

In essence, “All of the Stars” is about longing, hope, and enduring love. These themes resonate deeply with people in long-distance relationships.

8. “I Will Wait” By Mumford & Sons

People in long-distance relationships know what it means to have commitment and patience. These two aspects are very important elements to make such a relationship work. Mumford & Sons know it all too well in “I Will Wait.”

The song captures the essence of enduring love and one’s willingness to wait for the person he loves. It doesn’t matter how long it takes or how far apart they are. The line “And I will wait, I will wait for you” sums up the narrator’s resolve.

This line reflects his unwavering loyalty and the determination required to keep a relationship. It suggests that the bond between two lovers can withstand the test of time and distance.

9. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” By Marvin Gaye And Tammi Terrell

The late 1960s witnessed the release of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” It was a hit when it was recorded by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell in 1967.

This timeless song captures the unwavering commitment often seen in long-distance relationships. It uses metaphors to convey the message that no obstacle can prevent one from reaching their loved one.

This is addressed in the lines “There ain’t no mountain high enough / Ain’t no valley low enough / Ain’t no river wide enough.” These speak to the lengths one is willing to go to cross the physical distance separating them from their partner.

10. “So Far Away” By Carole King

Long-distance relationships are fraught with longing and loneliness. Carole King knows about it all too well in “So Far Away,” which was released in 1971.

In the lyrics, the narrator yearns for proximity and intimacy, hindered by physical distance. She addresses this in the lines, “Doesn’t anybody stay in one place anymore? / It would be so fine to see your face at my door.” She wishes to hold him, but he’s far away from her.

“So Far Away” touches upon the sense of disconnection and isolation that can come from being separated from a loved one. It reflects the frustration and helplessness of knowing the person you love is physically unreachable.

11. “Talking To The Moon” By Bruno Mars

Up next is the ballad “Talking to the Moon” by Bruno Mars from his Doo-Wops & Hooligans album. It captures the emotions of longing, solitude, and sadness associated with long-distance relationships.

The song uses the metaphor of talking to the moon to express yearning when separated from a loved one. By “talking to the moon,” the narrator attempts to bridge the gap of physical distance. He reaches out to his beloved despite the distance. This embodies the longing that is inherent in long-distance relationships.

In addition, the song captures the solitude and sadness that come from being apart. It reflects the challenge of communicating with someone who isn’t physically present.

12. “Calling You” By Blue October

In “Calling You,” Blue October explores the deep emotions associated with long-distance relationships. They capture the raw intensity of longing and desire as they reach out to a loved one through a phone call.

The lines “Calling you to see / if you’re OK when I’m not around” reflect the narrator’s concern and yearning for reassurance. They reveal his need to hear her voice, confirm her well-being, and reaffirm their mutual love.

In essence, the song is about the emotional depth and enduring love inherent in long-distance relationships. It reminds us of the strength of connection that can exist even when miles apart.

13. “Hey There Delilah” By Plain White T’s

Even without the mention of long distance, “Hey There Delilah” by Plain White T’s perfectly captures what it’s like to be away from someone. It’s a comforting message to a woman named Delilah who is in New York.

The song is a witness to the narrator’s love and longing despite the physical distance between them. It reflects the essence of staying emotionally connected even when they are separated by “a thousand miles.”

“Hey There Delilah” brings out hope and optimism as the narrator assures Delilah that they can make it through. Its message resonates with people who have been in similar situations.

14. “Far Away” By Nickelback

A long-distance relationship is not easy, as “Far Away” by Nickelback portrays. This ballad explores themes of love, longing, and distance.

Despite the distance, the love the narrator has is deeply rooted. Not the physical, mental, or emotional distance can change the way he feels for his beloved. But that’s not to say that he doesn’t long for her. He laments, “I loved you all along / And I miss you / Been far away for far too long.”

In essence, “Far Away” is an anthem of long-distance love and redemption. It illustrates the raw emotions and challenges that couples in such relationships face.

15. “Faithfully” By Journey

One of the best songs of Journey is “Faithfully.” Released in 1983, it’s about the complexities and challenges of long-distance relationships.

The song reflects what musicians experience when they’re on the road. It speaks to the sacrifices and challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship while making a life on the road.

At its core, “Faithfully” captures the struggle of balancing professional commitments with personal relationships. In many instances, it can be emotionally draining. However, the song also emphasizes the resilience of love and commitment in such situations.

16. “Home” By Michael Bublé

If you’re away from loved ones and long to be with them, a song by Michael Bublé hits home. Aptly titled “Home,” this track encapsulates the longing for the people you love.

The song is resonant to people who experience the emotional strain of being separated from someone they love. In the case of the narrator, he reflects on the feelings of homesickness while being on tour. He is lonely despite being “surrounded by a million people.”

At its core, “Home” is an anthem that captures the emotional struggle and longing for closeness. But despite the melancholy tone, it offers optimism and hope, suggesting that love can endure separation and distance.

17. “Distance And Time” By Alicia Keys

Singer-songwriter Alicia Keys explores the trials of long-distance relationships in “Distance and Time.” The song is about what it’s like for couples who can’t be together due to geographical and time constraints.

The narrator expresses her enduring love for her loved one despite their separation. The lyrics “You were always on my mind / All I do is count the days” reflect her yearning for that day when they will finally be reunited.

At its core, the song explores the emotional landscape of people in long-distance relationships. It shines a light on their struggle with the physical absence of their partner.

18. “Long Distance” By JORDY

From JORDY‘s Mind Games album comes a song with “long distance” in the lyrics, which suits our list perfectly. Released in 2021, “Long Distance” captures the intricacies of maintaining a long-distance relationship.

In the lyrics, we find out that the narrator had an ex who didn’t believe that a long-distance relationship would work. But when he meets “a guy on the internet,” he decides to “[live] in the moment.”

This means accepting the challenges that come with a long-distance relationship. He is willing to “take the long distance” and give their budding romance a shot.

19. “A Thousand Miles” By Vanessa Carlton

Couples in long-distance relationships can find solace in Vanessa Carlton‘s “A Thousand Miles.” This song captures the longing for someone who is far away.

The lines “‘Cause you know I’d walk a thousand miles / if I could just see you tonight” stand out in the lyrics. It speaks to the lengths the narrator would go to just to see the person she loves. It also highlights the sacrifices and efforts that couples make to keep the connection alive.

“A Thousand Miles” paints a picture of the emotional landscape of those in long-distance relationships. It reveals their struggles with physical distance and the love that endures the hardships.

20. “Carolina” By Parmalee

The heartfelt song “Carolina” by Parmalee is about longing and love, particularly relevant to those in long-distance relationships. The narrative follows a man who misses his girl whenever he’s away.

The phrase “She feels like Carolina” symbolizes comfort and familiarity. The woman reminds him of Carolina, of home. Despite the distance, his feelings for her remain strong. She becomes his emotional anchor, providing a sense of home even when he’s away.

“Carolina” perfectly captures the longing for both a person and a place. It embodies the emotions of longing, nostalgia, and the enduring love that characterize long-distance relationships.

21. “The Girl” By City And Colour

Released in 2008, “The Girl” by City and Colour is an ode to a person who stands by you even when you’re far away.

The lyrics express the challenges of being separated from a loved one. However, they also convey a poignant message of reassurance and commitment. While he’s “off chasing [his] own dreams,” he lets her know that his feelings remain unwavering.

“The Girl” is a testament to the strength of love in the face of physical distance. It expresses the deep longing and constant thoughts that accompany such situations.

22. “Kiss Me Thru The Phone” By Soulja Boy

Long-distance relationships in the digital age are filled with challenges. “Kiss Me thru the Phone” by Soulja Boy revolves around the use of a phone as a way to bridge the gap between individuals who are physically apart.

The lyrics express the narrator’s longing to be with his lover despite the distance separating them. This is shown in the line, “Baby, you know that I miss you, I wanna get with you tonight.” This sentiment resonates with those in similar situations, where couples have to make do with digital communication.

“Kiss Me thru the Phone” reflects the changing times, when people find ways to keep their love alive. It shows how digital means can be a way to express affection and maintain a strong bond.

23. “Here Without You” By 3 Doors Down

A long-distance relationship can be lonely at times. 3 Doors Down captures the longing and loneliness in “Here Without You.”

The narrator expresses how much he misses his partner. The lyrics reflect feelings of isolation even when he’s in constant communication with her. It’s not just the physical distance but the circumstances as well that make them feel separated.

Despite the physical distance, the song emphasizes the enduring nature of love. The narrator is comforted by thoughts of her and promises that the distance “won’t take away [his] love.”

24. “Someday” By Bryan Greenberg

Another song that captures the essence of a long-distance relationship is “Someday” by Bryan Greenberg. It delves into themes of longing, hope, and unwavering dedication.

The narrator talks about traveling all night just to see his lover’s face, even for just a day. This speaks to the lengths one would take just to spend a moment with their loved one. The lyric “I’ll come back to you someday” is a promise of return, an optimistic outlook despite the present separation.

“Someday” is an anthem of comfort for those in long-distance relationships. It captures the feelings of longing and the hope that keeps a relationship going.

25. “Counting Down The Days” By Natalie Imbruglia

When you’re away from your loved one, you can’t help but look forward to the day you will be reunited. This is the sentiment in Natalie Imbruglia‘s “Counting Down the Days.”

The title itself reflects what many people in such relationships do. They yearn for the presence of their loved ones and are eager to spend time together again.

This speaks to the emotional rollercoaster that people in long-distance relationships often experience. There’s the joy of being in love. At the same time, they experience sadness when they are not physically present with their partners.

26. “Distant Lover” By Marvin Gaye

The poignant song “Distant Lover” by Marvin Gaye is about the emotional complexities of a long-distance relationship. It was released in 1973 from Gaye’s album Let’s Get It On.

In the lyrics, the narrator laments the physical distance between him and his lover. He expresses longing and yearning, as addressed in the lines “Heaven knows that I long for you / every night, every night.”

At its core, “Distant Lover” explores the pain that arises from being separated from a loved one. The title emphasizes not just the physical but also the emotional distance the narrator experiences.

27. “I’m Missing You” By Bobby Tinsley

People in long-distance relationships know how difficult it can be when they miss each other. The deeply emotional song “I’m Missing You” by Bobby Tinsley reflects this sentiment.

The narrator expresses the heartache and loneliness of being separated from his lover. The song speaks to the constant feeling of missing the other person and the desire to be physically close again.

The song provides comfort for couples who are navigating a long-distance love. It acknowledges the pain of separation but also the deep love that makes enduring the pain worthwhile.

28. “One Call Away” By Charlie Puth

Thanks to technological advancements, it’s now easier to keep in touch with people who are physically away from us. In “One Call Away,” Charlie Puth sings about how people can be just a phone call away from each other.

The lyrics convey assurance to a loved one who is far away. The song emphasizes that despite the physical distance, emotional closeness can still be maintained through communication. The repeated line “I’m only one call away” is a promise of constant availability and emotional support.

In addition, “One Call Away” is about unwavering commitment and dedication. The narrator promises that he will always be there in times of need, even if he’s miles away.

29. “Vanilla Twilight” By Owl City

Being in a long-distance relationship has its tough moments. Owl City explores the ups and downs of a long-distance relationship in “Vanilla Twilight.”

The narrator expresses his longing and yearning for his beloved. He misses her terribly and observes that “it’s not the same without [her]” with the physical distance between them.

This struggle of being far from the one you love is a relatable theme for those who are in a long-distance relationship. But while it’s challenging, the narrator deals with it by thinking of his beloved so he “[doesn’t] feel so alone.”

30. “So Far Away” By Dire Straits

Our next song highlights the negative aspects of a long-distance relationship. Dire Straits‘ “So Far Away” captures the emotion of longing for someone who is physically away.

In the lyrics, the narrator expresses the challenges of being away from his lover. The repeated line “You’re so far away from me” conveys this sense of loneliness and longing. He can’t help but lament, “I’m tired of bein’ in love and bein’ all alone.”

At its core, “So Far Away” echoes the feelings experienced in long-distance relationships. It’s a testament to the struggles one endures when their loved one is far away.

31. “Somewhere Out There” By James Ingram And Linda Ronstadt

Last but not least is “Somewhere Out There” by James Ingram and Linda Ronstadt. Released in 1986, the song encapsulates the feelings associated with long-distance relationships.

The lyrics convey a message of hope and unwavering belief in the power of love to bridge any distance. The song suggests that even when separated, people can be brought together by shared thoughts and dreams. They are comforted knowing that the other is under the same sky, looking at the same moon.

The song is a reminder that despite the miles that separate people, their hearts are still connected. It captures the longing and the anticipation of being together again.

Summing Up Our List Of Long-Distance Relationship Songs

The songs above showed us that while long-distance relationships are challenging, they are also incredibly rewarding. Physical distance tests the strength and resilience of the relationship and pushes couples to communicate more effectively.

People in such relationships can resonate with and gain so much from our list of songs today. So, if you’re feeling lonely and missing your better half, return to this list. Listening to the songs will make you feel better.

That’s it for now. If you think we’ve missed some songs, let us know. We’ll add them for you.

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Dan Farrant, the founder of Hello Music Theory, has been teaching music for over 15 years, helping hundreds of thousands of students unlock the joy of music. He graduated from The Royal Academy of Music in 2012 and then launched Hello Music Theory in 2014. He plays the guitar, piano, bass guitar and double bass and loves teaching music theory.