A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 90s. Classic and popular tracks in Japanese music.
When you’re heartbroken, many people listen to breakup songs to soothe the sadness or find someone who shares their pain.
When you hear a song that matches how you feel, it’s strange how it can make your heart feel lighter.
In this article, we’ll highlight breakup songs specifically from the 1990s.
We’ve selected songs that share your feelings, songs that grieve alongside you—tracks that gently stay by your side when you’re hurting from a broken heart.
When times are tough, lean on the power of music to help heal your sorrow, even just a little.
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Breakup songs that were hits in the '90s. Classic and popular J-Pop songs (11–20)
single bedSha ran Q
This is the sixth single by Sharam Q, a four-member rock band fronted by musician Tsunku♂, who has launched numerous idol groups as a music producer.
The song was used as the ending theme for the TV anime D·N·A²: They Were 11—That Guy’s Another One, and became Sharam Q’s first million-selling smash hit.
Its lyrics, which portray a delicate male heart, paired with a melancholy melody, evoke a deeply sentimental mood.
Since its release, it has become a staple heartbreak song beloved beyond the realm of anime music.
Silent EveKarashima Midori
Back in the ’90s, this sad breakup song was always playing at Christmastime.
It became the theme song for the hugely popular drama “Christmas Eve” and is one of her signature tracks.
The lyrics, which turn what should be a happy Christmas into a sorrowful day, resonated with women going through the same experience, linking perfectly with the drama.
Karashima Midori’s hymn-like voice pairs beautifully with the holy atmosphere of Christmas, heightening the sense of poignancy.
As a breakup song that shows the sorrow behind someone else’s happiness, it’s a true classic.
I’m glad I met you.Koizumi Kyoko
This is the 32nd single by singer Kyoko Koizumi, who burst onto the scene as an idol singer with a string of hits and has also flourished as an actress with her commanding performances.
The song was used as the theme for the TV drama “Papa to Natchan” and became a major hit, selling over a million copies.
Its bright, catchy melody doesn’t make it feel like a heartbreak song at first listen, instead evoking the image of someone recalling a breakup while already starting to move forward.
More than dwelling on the sadness of parting, its message of gratitude is deeply emotional—a timeless breakup song that has remained fresh from the 1990s to today.
wailing in griefKudō Shizuka
This is the 18th single by singer Shizuka Kudo, who debuted as a member of the idol group Onyanko Club and has continued to showcase her multifaceted talents as an actor, TV personality, jewelry designer, and painter.
The song was used as the theme for the TV drama “Ano Hi ni Kaeritai,” and its memorable chorus is irresistibly catchy.
The lyrics depict the realization of how precious someone is only after losing them—something many who have experienced heartbreak from not being honest about their feelings will relate to.
With a melody that carries both a driving energy and a tinge of melancholy, this is Shizuka Kudo’s biggest hit.
DEAR…againHirose Kōmi
This is a heartbreak song by Koumi Hirose, who produced many hits in the ’90s with her powerful vocals.
While she’s best known for her winter love songs, this track is also a Christmas song and was used in the ski commercial for Alpen.
It tenderly portrays a girl’s yearning to see the one she loves by Christmas, resonating with women who have felt the same way.
The longing is so palpable in Hirose’s voice that you can’t help but wish the song ends with a happy ending.