Unrequited love songs by bands. Japanese pop/rock love songs.

Why not me?Misaka Saki

Saki Misaka – Isn’t It Fine If It’s Me (Full ver.)

This song delicately portrays the bittersweet feelings of unrequited love.

They were close as friends, but before he knew it, romantic feelings had begun to grow.

Those complex emotions of a boy are expressed through a clear, transparent singing voice.

Released in February 2021 as the theme song for ABEMA’s popular romance reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita” (Today, I Fell in Love), it resonated with many listeners.

It’s a perfect track for anyone struggling with their feelings for a crush.

Listening to this song might give you the courage to take a step forward.

snowNakanomori BAND

Nakanomori BAND – Snow [PV]

When I thought the lyrics felt a bit realistic from a male perspective, it turned out the song was written by The Blue Hearts’ Masashi “Mashi” Kishimoto, wasn’t it? I wonder if the protagonist of this song has locked away feelings that seem unlikely to be fulfilled.

The reason such straightforward, simple lyrics resonate as a heartrending, slightly sad love song must be Ayako Nakanomori’s expressive power.

Heroineback number

back number “Heroine” Music Video

Back Number, hugely popular among young people for their relatable lyrics.

This is one of their many unrequited love songs.

Since it was also used in a commercial, some of you may have heard it.

A love song where the slightly timid “I,” while feeling restless, thinks of you with unwavering sincerity.

with a happy endingTRACK15

TRACK15 – Happy End de [Official Music Video]

Have you ever had that aching experience of knowing a love won’t be returned, yet being unable to stop your heart from being drawn in? Released in July 2025 and crafted by TRACK15, this piece is a love song that portrays an irresistible longing and the strength to keep trying anyway.

Its message—thinking straight and true about someone no matter how it ends—really hits home.

The refreshing sound is another reason why.

It’s a wonderful rock number that gently stays by the side of anyone troubled by a love that just won’t go right.

Try loving—it’s not like you’ll lose anything.neguse.

Bedhead. 'Try loving me—it won't cost you anything' Official Music Video

A one-sided crush song from a woman’s perspective crafted by Neguse., depicting unreciprocated feelings and complex emotions.

Released in April 2023, the track gained traction on social media, and by September its music video surpassed 2 million views.

In contrast to its poppy, catchy sound, the lyrics convey the weight and ache of saying “I like you.” It’s a song that offers comfort to those struggling with emotional distance or anxiety in love—highly recommended for anyone who relates to the frustration of a bittersweet crush.

presentJITTERIN’JINN

[Hatsune Miku] JITTERIN’JINN “Present”

It’s a super catchy classic that even people who don’t know JITTERIN’JINN firsthand have probably heard.

The brisk tempo paired with the equally snappy lyrics will stick in your head and loop on repeat after just one listen! The lyrics themselves are actually very sad.

I’m really sorry.≠ME

≠ME (Not Equal Me) / 9th Single c/w “Gomen, Majide” [MV full]

This song beautifully captures the ache of unrequited love.

The lyrics convey the struggle of staying just friends while being unable to confess your feelings.

Even knowing they’re drawn to someone else, you can’t hold back your own emotions—the complexity of that inner turmoil hits close to home.

Included on ≠ME’s ninth single, “Because Summer Has Come,” this track feels like peeking into a lovestruck girl’s diary.

It’s perfect for anyone stuck between friends and lovers or gathering the courage to confess.

Give it a listen—and take the leap to tell them how you feel!