Breakup songs by Japanese bands: recommended classics and popular tracks

rendezvousshaitoopu

rendezvous

The rock band Shytone, which rose to prominence after a viral hit on social media, released a signature track in April 2023 that sings of a man’s searing emotions after a breakup.

Unable to accept parting from someone he loved deeply, he longs for an impossible reunion; the loneliness of his lover’s traces fading from everyday life is expressed through vocalist So Sasaki’s superb word choices—so moving you might be brought to tears.

The song is also known for surpassing 100 million total streams in November 2023 and is included on the album “Hors d’œuvre.” Why not entrust your heart to its somehow comforting melody that stirs up those bittersweet feelings?

A lie in the mirror smiles.T-BOLAN

The lie in the mirror smiles — T-BOLAN

This is the track included as the B-side to the million-selling single “Bye For Now,” released in November 1992.

It portrays the frustration and self-loathing in romance that make you act contrary to your true feelings.

Many listeners will feel a tightening in their chest at the scene where the self in the mirror smiles as if mocking one’s own lies.

The word choices—unusual for the time—also leave a strong impression.

The irresistible charm lies in the gap between the breezy pop-rock sound and the heartrending lyrics.

Moritomo Arashi’s soaring high notes in the chorus feel like the protagonist’s inner scream, stirring the listener’s emotions.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear on nights when you’re hiding your true feelings.

baby’s breathThis is LAST

This is LAST “Kasumisou” Music Video

This is a pop number by LAST featuring striking, vibrant brass.

Even knowing it’s a love that can never return, lingering feelings for the other person continue to swirl in the heart.

While carrying those complicated emotions, the protagonist is ultimately portrayed deciding, “I can finally start walking forward.” Released in November 2022, the track is included on the album HOME.

Its poignant lyrics, at odds with the bright sound, may well bring you to tears.

KayoGOING STEADY

Kayo — GOING STEADY

This is a song included on GOING STEADY’s 2001 album “Sakura no Uta.” To put it bluntly, “Kayo” is the name of vocalist Mineta’s ex-girlfriend (lol).

But both the music and the lyrics are wonderful.

Rather than being sad or lonely, it’s a song that has truly turned the past into a memory, and it makes you feel that she was really someone important to him.

walnutMr.Children

Mr.Children - Kurumi [Walnut]

A warm yet bittersweet song by Mr.Children, characterized by gentle yet grand melodies played on acoustic guitar, piano, and blues harp.

The lyrics, “We mustn’t turn back—let’s move forward,” inspire a sense of hope.

tragic heroineMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Tragic Heroine

This song candidly portrays the pain of heartbreak and lingering attachment.

It begins with an everyday scene of visiting an ex’s home to pick up belongings.

The repeated lyric “because I still love you” powerfully conveys the inability to let go.

My Hair is Bad released this track in February 2024, and the following week they also put out “Freedom and Hysteria,” showcasing their energetic activity.

It’s recommended for those who’ve experienced a breakup or are looking for a bittersweet song.

When you want to let out the emotions deep in your heart, why not give this track a listen?

deep redMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Deep Crimson (Official Music Video)

The raw, ego-soaked inner voice of vocalist Tomomi Shiiki is striking.

“Makka,” the song that sparked their breakthrough, grips you with lyrics that lay bare a candid, real emotional landscape.

Because it’s based on Shiiki’s own experiences, you can feel a genuine sense of heartbreak.

You can sense how serious he was about the woman he wanted to love, even if it meant leaving the long-term partner he had been with.