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!
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- 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
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- 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. Classic and popular Japanese songs (1–10)
ShipwreckNakamori Akina
Akina Nakamori, who now appears in the media less frequently, built a massive following in the 1980s and ’90s that split the idol scene into two camps: “Team Seiko” or “Team Akina.” Said to be a song she reached after a turning point in her idol career and her own heartbreak, “Nanpasen” (Shipwreck) captures that journey.
The lyrics put on a brave face—“Even if one love ends, just forget it and move on to the next”—while powerfully conveying the feeling underneath: “And yet, I still can’t forget you…” It’s a song I’d like you to listen to quietly after a breakup.
Also pay close attention to Tokiko Kato’s heartfelt lyrics, which liken a finished romance to a “shipwreck that has lost its course.”
Tears of the MagnoliaStardust Revue
Stardust Revue made their major debut in 1981 and have left behind numerous classic songs.
The husky, compelling voice of their vocalist, Kaname Nemoto, is incredibly captivating, isn’t it? In this song, his vocals match perfectly, making the heartbreak-themed, heartrending lyrics stand out even more.
The beautifully clear, transparent choral work that supports his husky voice is also superb.
Another charm of this song is how each word and expression woven into the lyrics is truly beautiful.
I can’t stop this sadnessAnri
I don’t think that was her intention at all, but she may have been a pioneer of singers and entertainers known only by a given name, without a surname.
Songs like “Mediterranean Dream” and “All-American” carried a certain refined, exotic flavor that felt distinct from traditional Japanese kayōkyoku.
Even this track—an utterly despairing breakup song about having your boyfriend stolen by a friend—is wrapped in a cosmopolitan pop sheen.
She sings “Kanashimi ga Tomaranai,” yet you don’t feel the suffocating weight of heartbreak; perhaps that’s one of the charms of an Anri song.
It’s a perfect pick for anyone freshly heartbroken who still wants to keep their spirits up.
MPRINCESS PRINCESS
M, one of PRINCESS PRINCESS’s signature songs that still enjoys strong support across many generations, is now known as their defining hit.
But in fact, it was originally released as the B-side to their other hit, Diamonds.
Although the lyrics are heartbreakingly beautiful, I’ve heard that when they were composing it, the words were written as a kind of payback to an ex-boyfriend.
So it turns out the song carried some unexpectedly aggressive feelings! (laughs)
stationTakeuchi Mariya
This is one of Mariya Takeuchi’s signature songs, an eternal women’s pop classic.
If you listen to it after a breakup, I’m sure it will make you cry, so please be careful when you do.
A train station is a place that often becomes the setting for heartbreak songs.
The lyrics—about suddenly spotting an ex at the station and not knowing what to do—perfectly capture a pure maiden’s heart, even evoking something instinctive about love.
Many other artists have covered this song as well, and Akina Nakamori’s version of “Eki” turns it into a beautiful piece that conveys deep feminine emotion.
I recommend that one too!