A ballad song about unrequited love

Your colorNEW!Da-iCE

Da-iCE – 12th single “Kimiiro” Music Video [Full ver.]

Have you ever felt the frustration of a distance that feels so close yet just out of reach, even though you’re in love? This unrequited love song perfectly captures bright yet bittersweet emotions for the end of summer.

Created by Da-iCE, it was released as a single in August 2017 and selected as the official tie-in song for Takara Tomy Arts’ “Bunch O Balloons.” It was later included on the album “BET,” reaching as high as No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Despite its comfortable mid-up tempo sound, the warm, wistful melody resonates deeply and naturally paints vivid scenes as you listen.

It’s a must-hear for men experiencing the frustration of unrequited love who can’t quite take the step to confess.

Setagaya Love StoryNEW!back number

Setagaya Love Story

Who hasn’t felt their heart tighten with the frustration of words left unsaid on the walk to the station just before the last train? Sung by the rock band back number, this song is a medium-tempo ballad that vividly portrays the clumsy feelings of a man.

Within the brief time between leaving an izakaya and heading to the station, the protagonist’s hesitation and earnest longing—his inability to take that one extra step—are woven into everyday scenes.

Included as the closing track on the album “Love Story,” released in March 2014, it was later adapted into a short film in January 2015 by director Isao Yukisada, earning praise for its evocative world.

It’s a masterpiece I hope anyone struggling to find the right words at a parting with someone they love will listen to.

I don’t like it.yangusukinii

Young Skinny – I Don't Like You [Official Music Video]

This is a heart-wrenching ballad that portrays the complex emotions after a heartbreak.

The protagonist’s poignant bravado is conveyed through Kayu’s emotionally rich vocals, and many listeners will likely find their hearts shaken each time they hear it.

Released in December 2022 as Young Skinny’s final indie single, it was later included on the album “I Thought Anything Would Be Forgiven If I Turned It Into a Song.” It’s also known as an insert song for ABEMA’s dating show “Koisuru ♥ Shuumatsu Homestay 2023 Spring ~Sweet Orange Memory~.” The band’s first-ever use of strings matches the chilly winter atmosphere and really seeps into the soul.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side on those nights when you try to forget but just can’t.

Coffee SongHOWL BE QUIET

HOWL BE QUIET – Coffee Song

A love song that overlays the ache of unrequited feelings onto an everyday moment.

Released digitally in 2021 by the piano rock band HOWL BE QUIET and later included on their final album, HOWL BE QUIET, this track is also known for having been created through communication with fans during livestreamed performances.

Told from a female perspective, its portrayal of a love that goes unrewarded is deeply moving.

With lyrics that revive memories along with the aroma of coffee, it’s perfect for nights spent thinking of someone.

A song for everyone who carries feelings that can’t reach their destination.

Unrequited love for lifeGarakuta

Garakuta – Unrequited Love for a Lifetime (Official Music Video)

This is a song by Garakuta, a four-piece band based in Nagoya, that portrays unrequited feelings of love in a down-to-earth, relatable way.

If confessing would risk ruining what we have now, I’d rather keep my feelings to myself.

Many listeners will likely feel their hearts tighten at the blend of bravado and honest emotion in the lyrics.

Featured as the first track on their EP released in March 2024, “May it be my song that fills the gaps in your heart,” this piece is perfect for anyone stuck in a love they can’t quite step forward into, despite how strongly they feel.

tameraiMisaka Saki

Saki Misaka – tamerai (Official Music Video)

A song by Saki Misaka that captures the frustration of being unable to put a secret love into words and the true-to-life emotions swaying at the turn of the seasons.

Released digitally in February 2024, this track blends a neo-retro pop sound with a trendy vibe and vocals that delicately express inner feelings, making it wonderfully soothing.

Even while carrying unspoken emotions, it’s a warm love song that helps you look a little bit forward toward spring.

Be sure to listen closely.

Unrequited Love in the Music RoomKeyakizaka46

Keyakizaka46 'Unrequited Love in the Music Room' Short Ver.

It’s a Keyakizaka46 song that overlays the feeling of first love onto the sound of a piano echoing through a quiet after-school hallway.

It’s a unit track by Rika Ozeki, Minami Koike, and Neru Nagahama, included on TYPE-D of the single “Ambivalent,” released in August 2018.

The refined scene of someone not opening the music room door where their crush is, instead listening intently to the notes leaking out, tightens the listener’s chest.

If you’re someone who wants to cherish your current relationship without breaking it… this song will surely stay close to your delicate feelings.