A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 1980s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
Picking out “breakup songs” from among the classic hits of the ’80s!
When it comes to breakup songs, that contrast between a wistful melody and lyrics still burning with uncooled passion really hits home, doesn’t it?
The tracks we’re introducing today are all packed with the powerful feeling of “I still love you” amid the sadness—songs that’ll bring you to tears.
If you’re thinking, “I want to know ’80s breakup songs,” or “I want to hear the hit songs of my youth again,” be sure to check these out.
They may be from the ’80s, but true classics move us regardless of the era.
If you’re younger, take this chance to give them a listen!
- [Shōwa-Era Heartbreak Songs] Carefully selected timeless love classics adored across generations!
- [Tearjerker Guaranteed!] A Heartbreak Song Told from a Male Perspective
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- [Female Heartbreak Song] A soul-stirring song dedicated to you, who loved with all your heart.
- Nostalgic Showa-era heartbreak songs. Soothe your heart with timeless classics that can move women in their 60s to tears.
- Recommended breakup songs for women in their 50s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
- A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 90s. Classic and popular tracks in Japanese music.
- A collection of nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1980s that still linger in our ears
- Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- Autumn songs that were hits in the 80s. Classic and popular tracks from Japanese music.
- [Remembering the Pain of Love…] Breakup Songs Recommended for People in Their 60s
- [1980s J-Pop] Popular winter songs: from chart-toppers to hidden gems!
Breakup songs that were hits in the 1980s. Masterpieces and popular Japanese songs (11–20).
Woman from “W no Higeki”Yakushimaru Hiroko
Back when Kadokawa films were at their peak, Hiroko Yakushimaru was also a truly special presence.
Any show she appeared on would pull in high ratings.
She was very active as a singer too, with many hits like “Sailor Suit and Machine Gun.” This song, “Woman (from ‘W’s Tragedy’),” is unusually dark for an idol track.
The lyrics press forward with an almost unsettling assertiveness—“I love you, even if you don’t love me…” I’m sure some people who’ve had their hearts broken can relate.
It’s a perfect song for those who want to immerse themselves in the sorrow of heartbreak.
And then I’m at a lossŌsawa Yoshiyuki
This is a single cut from the album “CONFUSION.” It became a huge hit after being featured in a Nissin Cup Noodles commercial.
The distinctive touch of lyricist Natsuo Giniro is fully showcased, and even the somewhat long, prose-like title “And Then I Was at a Loss” was unusual for the time.
The lyrics, like a poem, reflect on a joyful romance while gazing at a lover who is growing distant.
The understated production, rather than being flashy, adds depth to the song.
It’s the kind of track that makes you want to fall in love again.
Embraced by the wintry windKoizumi Kyoko
If we’re talking about the quintessential song that keeps you company through a one-sided love in winter during the 1980s, it has to be this one.
Released in 1986 by Kyoko Koizumi—affectionately known as Kyon-Kyon, and also active as an actress—“Kogarashi ni Dakarete.” Written and composed by Toshihiko Takamizawa of THE ALFEE, it’s a ballad with a strikingly glittering mood.
The contrast between the pain of heartbreak and the fiercely burning emotions, set against the whiteness of winter, is truly gripping.
Her understated vocals are wonderful too.
It’s a song that stays by your side through an unforgettable love.
Deceived by a guy like HiroshiTakada Mizue
Sonna Hiroshi ni Damasarete (Fooled by That Hiroshi), sung by Mizue Takada, was released in 1983.
The song was written and composed by Keisuke Kuwata, and Southern All Stars also released their own version.
On the same day Takada released her single, the band Juicy Fruits put out their version as well.
Takada’s rendition peaked at No.
6 on the Oricon charts and sold over 300,000 copies.
It’s a nostalgic tune for those who came of age in the ’80s, with lyrics that evoke the era’s love life and trendy styles.
loveMatsuyama Chiharu
A hit that colored the charts of the 1980s and continues to be loved today, Chiharu Matsuyama’s classic “Koi” (Love).
From the intro—quietly suffused with loneliness and poignancy that subtly hints at the end of a romance—the song immediately grips your heart.
The opening line becomes the linchpin of the piece, and the lyrics, unfolding from a woman’s perspective, have moved many listeners to the core.
In particular, the chorus, which pierces the heart of the misalignment between man and woman, conveys the woman’s searing emotions with palpable force.
Woven with words that carefully trace the delicate heart of a woman, it is truly a gem among love songs.
