Breakup songs by Japanese bands: recommended classics and popular tracks

Spring Love, Awakeningkusō iinkai

Kusou Iinkai / Spring Love, Awakening Music Video

A powerful, heartbreak-filled song that belts out a suddenly ended romance over a fast-paced melody.

The music video is also a must-see—does it have a hint of stalker vibes?! An unforgettable classic whose voice brimming with sorrow, tenderness, and love resonates deep in your heart.

I love youfumidō

Fumido – I Love You

This is one of Fumido’s signature songs, capturing the bittersweet emotions of heartbreak.

The melody, imbued with the melancholic flavor characteristic of a piano trio band, leaves a strong impression, and the feelings of lovers on the brink of parting hit close to home.

Released in August 2006, it drew attention as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “PS Rashōmon.” It achieved commercial success, breaking into the Oricon Top 10 and spending several weeks at No.

1 on FM802.

The song expresses an earnest wish to cherish the limited time left before dawn, and it resonates deeply with those who know the pain of lost love, offering empathy and solace.

A gentle lieAcid Black Cherry

Acid Black Cherry 'Gentle Lie' MV

This is a single released by Acid Black Cherry in 2009.

The line “I hate you” is something she, who wasn’t very honest, often said with a laugh when we were dating.

Her final words, trembling, were also “I hate you.” It was a gentle lie in her own way, not how she truly felt… It’s heartbreakingly sad.

You are alive.JUDY AND MARY

"You're Alive" with lyrics — JUDY AND MARY MIRACLE NIGHT TOUR 1996

This is a song included on the album “MIRACLE DIVING,” released in 1995.

We usually want heartbreak wounds to heal quickly, but YUKI-chan sings that she wants them to remain.

Because if they heal, she’ll forget him—she’ll forget the happy days… She wants to forget, but doesn’t want to forget.

I feel like those conflicting emotions are what’s expressed here.

Summer Melancholy ~Time to Say Good-bye~L’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc~en~Ciel “Summer Melancholy [time to say good-bye]” -Music Clip-

A ballad by L’Arc~en~Ciel that expresses the bittersweet sadness and loneliness felt at the end of summer.

It weaves memories and a sense of loss for a departed lover, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in October 1995 as their third single, it is also included on their major-label debut album, “heavenly.” Thanks to the tie-in event “L’Arc~en~Ciel DAY” held at Toshimaen, the song spread to many fans.

It’s a track that offers comfort to those feeling the pain of heartbreak or who have experienced parting with someone important.

It’s also perfect for immersing yourself in a melancholic end-of-summer mood.

forget-me-notNIGHTMARE

Nightmare – Wasurena-gusa (Lyrics and English Translation)

This is a song included on the 2003 album “GIANism ~What’s Yours Is Mine~.” It’s a different version from the one released during their indie days.

The song is based on drummer RUKA’s real-life experience.

The title “Wasurena-gusa” apparently comes from the Doraemon gadget “Wasure-ro-gusa.”

Love letterTHE BLUE HEARTS

[Official] THE BLUE HEARTS “Love Letter” [4th Single (1989/2/21)] THE BLUE HEARTS / Love Letter

It’s a man’s heartbreak song filled with tender affection for the other person and a wish for their happiness.

It’s a track that snaps you out of moping and gives you a kick to get moving.

Hiroto Kōmoto’s rough, powerful vocals spark courage.