Breakup songs by Japanese bands: recommended classics and popular tracks

IfRADWIMPS

What if - RADWIMPS cover (guitar) solo acoustic

This is a single we released independently in 2003.

Heartbreak isn’t only when two people who are dating break up; confessing your feelings to a crush and getting rejected is heartbreak too.

It’s a song about wanting someone to scold me for repeatedly dwelling on feelings I can’t process, after I confessed with nothing to lose and was turned down.

I wonder if I’d still say it’s too late.Saucy Dog

Saucy Dog “Would I Say It’s Too Late Now?” Music Video <4th Mini Album “Take Me” Released on 2020.9.2>

This Saucy Dog song candidly portrays the pain of heartbreak.

The protagonist’s lingering attachment wavers, and their emotions seep in alongside a delicate melody.

Included on the mini-album “Take Me,” released in September 2020, the track showcases a new musical venture for the band.

The music video, directed by Suzuka Kumagai, brilliantly brings the song’s world to life.

It offers warm comfort to those unable to accept the end of a romance or those reflecting on past loves.

Its depth is captivating, revealing new interpretations with every listen.

proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

It’s a single released in 2011.

There are many kinds of farewells, and each person has different dreams and paths ahead.

These two chose to part ways in order to move forward.

Of course it’s painful, but because they made the tough decision to break up, they have to start walking forward.

I think it’s a very positive breakup song.

donutkobore

kobore – Donuts (Official Video)

A love song packed with bittersweet feelings.

The delicate lyrics, which liken the pain of heartbreak to the hole in a donut, pierce the heart.

Sato Takeshi of kobore delivers vocals that convey his life philosophy, perfectly matched by the band’s powerful performance.

Released in September 2024, the song dropped alongside its music video.

The visuals, which weave between past and present, are also a must-see.

It’s perfect for anyone carrying the pain of a breakup or who has experienced losing someone important.

It’s also recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in kobore’s world, which delicately portrays the loneliness of the night and the joys and sorrows of everyday life.

Only your lingering imageElefanto Kashimashi

Only your lingering image... Elephant Kashimashi

This is a song included on Elefant Kashimashi’s 2009 best-of album, “Elecashi Self-Selected Works.” It was previously unreleased and made its debut on this album.

The incredibly nostalgic melody intensifies the sense of melancholy.

the absolute worstMarushii

Marcy – The Worst of the Worst (Official Music Video)

This is a song by the three-piece rock band Marcy, themed around heartbreak.

It was released in June 2022 and later included on their second album, Candle, in November of the same year.

The track channels complex emotions—anger, sadness, and lingering affection toward a former lover—through a fast-paced, energetic sound.

The lyric “I can’t bring myself to hate you, even though you’re a liar” conveys the lingering attachment and inner conflict that remain after a relationship ends.

It also gained attention for featuring influencer Naenano in the music video.

It’s a recommended listen not only for those nursing the pain of a broken heart, but also for anyone who wants to reflect on past relationships.

OverMr.Children

Mr.Children “Over” from 30th Anniversary Tour Entrance to the Half Century – 2022.5.10 TOKYO DOME –

This is a song included on the 1994 album Atomic Heart.

It’s a breakup song, but the melody is bright and the lyrics are genuinely straightforward.

Many people can probably relate to the feelings of a man’s heart expressed here.

Although the breakup came from her change of heart, the song conveys a positive resolve to keep moving forward.