Breakup songs by Japanese bands: recommended classics and popular tracks

flashbackTonbokōpu

Tonbo Corp – Flashback (Music Video)

A song by Tonbo Corp woven with nostalgia and melancholy.

It conveys the pain of heartbreak through a richly emotive melody reminiscent of Irish music.

The lyrics, confessing lingering feelings for a past lover, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in August 2024, this track showcases the band’s spirit of musical exploration.

Its arrangement, both delicate and powerful, beautifully evokes a sentimental atmosphere.

Recommended for those who can’t yet accept the end of a romance or who want to revisit a past love.

It will surely stay close to your heart.

the same storyHanbaato Hanbaato

The Same Story — Humbert Humbert

Humbert Humbert’s “Onaji Hanashi” feels like lyrics that bid farewell to a long-lasting relationship.

It’s a heartrending song you’ll want to listen to at the moment of parting.

The profound lyrics and the gentle-sounding vocals match beautifully, leaving you with a warm feeling.

SaudadePorunogurafiti

Porno Graffitti 'Saudade' (“OPEN MUSIC CABINET” Live in Saitama Super Arena 2007) / 'Saudade (Live Ver.)'

This is a single released by Porno Graffitti in 2000.

The song is sung from a woman’s perspective.

I feel it portrays the conflict between a heart that tries to act tough and grow up after a heartbreak, and the feelings that can’t be neatly resolved by logic.

calm (of the sea), lull; Nagi (a Japanese given name)Marushii

Marcy – Nagi (Official Music Video)

The three-piece rock band Marcy (Marcyi), who have been winning support especially among younger generations and even entering Spotify’s Viral Charts not only in Japan but across Asia.

Nagi, the opening track of their second album Candle, draws you into its world from the very start with a sentimental piano and a striking bassline.

Its lyrics tell a story of realizing the importance of someone only after losing them, yet choosing to keep looking forward and walking on—a bittersweet theme that still conveys strength.

It’s a sentimental number whose lyrical melody will move your heart.

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Hoshino Takashi

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I don’t like it.yangusukinii

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

Even after getting rid of every memento, a past love resurfaces in unexpected moments.

Sung by Young Skinny, this song portrays the aching feelings of a woman who can’t forget her ex.

The more she thinks, “I’ve already moved on,” the more the memories cling to her.

It’s a breakup song that gently tells anyone wondering, “Why can’t I let this go?” that “everyone’s the same—it’s going to be okay.” Released in December 2022, it gained buzz through an early drop on TikTok.

True to Young Skinny—a four-piece rock band formed through members who connected on social media—the lyrics vividly capture the real emotions of a girl in love.

You might just find yourself singing along and blurting out, “I feel this so much!”

A Wish on HeelsToukyou Karankoron

Tokyo Karankoron / Wish Upon a Heel [Music Video YouTube ver.]

A gentle song that wraps up the anxious feelings of an overreaching, going-nowhere kind of love.

Tokyo Karankoron’s distinctive, beautiful melodic lines blend with soft vocals to create a charming yet gripping classic.

The chorus is irresistibly lovely—don’t miss it.

It hurts.Kiyoshi Ryujin

Ryujin Kiyoshi – Itai yo

A big hit by Ryujin Kiyoshi.

It’s a masterpiece distinguished by a simple, beautiful piano melody.

Kiyoshi’s fragile, heartrending vocals—like he’s singing through tears—are truly moving.

The lyrics, which candidly lay bare his feelings for a girlfriend he dearly loved, are so painfully bittersweet and full of raw realism that they grip your heart.