[Tear-Jerking] Classic and Recommended Love Ballads

In loveHY

HY - “In Love” (Theme song for the film ‘366 Days’) Music Video

Even if you weren’t the one they chose, the fact that you loved doesn’t change… A bittersweet yet forward-looking sentiment runs through this touching HY ballad.

Written as the theme song for the film “366 Days,” released in January 2025, the track is positioned as an answer song to their 2008 classic “366 Days.” It beautifully portrays emotional growth—rising from the pain of heartbreak and embracing even that experience as a cherished memory—and is also included on the album “TIME.” Set across Okinawa and Tokyo, the film unfolds a pure love story spanning 20 years, and this song superbly captures its worldview.

For those who have reached the end of a romance, or who are about to take a new step forward, this is a song that will gently give you a push.

May it be filled with kindnessJUJU

JUJU 'So That It Overflows with Kindness'

This is a heartwarming ballad that gently embraces deep love and gratitude for someone precious.

Even as everyday life changes in the blink of an eye and we feel on the verge of losing sight of what truly matters, the presence of a loved one reminds us of life’s meaning and joy.

The song portrays the beauty of unconditional love and mutual support, conveyed through a voice that resonates with the heart.

Released in February 2009 as JUJU’s ninth single, it became her first to enter the Oricon Weekly Top 10 and was also featured in a collaborative commercial by MTV Japan and Nissan.

Included on the album “What’s Love?”, it has garnered wide support, including numerous cover versions by various artists.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when your feelings for someone special overflow or when you want to express your gratitude.

Let the warm vocals fill your heart with kindness.

Only HumanK

K　『Only Human』

A dramatic ballad by K that shines a light of hope, telling us that “beyond sorrow lies a smile.” Chosen as the theme song for the drama One Litre of Tears, the piece portrays people who keep looking forward even as they face life’s hardships.

When you’re exhausted, when you stop and wonder if things are okay as they are, this song gently gives you a push.

Released in November 2005, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon charts.

It’s also included on the album Beyond the Sea and continues to be cherished as one of K’s signature works.

Its tender, enveloping vocals are sure to give you strength.

rootKing Gnu

King Gnu – Root

A warm, gem-like mid-tempo ballad that sings of the value found even in those who don’t stand out.

Alongside the characteristically beautiful piano and strings of King Gnu, nursery rhyme–style choral parts and contemporary beats are interwoven, culminating in a weighty track that evokes the passage of time.

It’s a precious song imbued with deep affection—quietly accompanying one’s feelings and gently embracing care for someone dear.

Written as the theme song for the TBS Sunday drama “Diamonds Sleeping in the Sea” in October 2024, it’s equally at home soundtracking peaceful moments with someone special or a nighttime drive, letting you savor a refined, adult-tinged ballad.

You are here—that’s everything.Kotora

[80’s JAPANESE CITY POP] Realizing love after losing it | You being here—that’s everything

This is a love ballad by Kotora, marked by gentle piano melodies and delicate strings.

It tenderly and carefully portrays the happiness that comes from having someone you love and the immense presence they hold in your life.

Released on YouTube in March 2025, the song fully conveys pure feelings of love and the desire to cherish the other person, earning high praise from fans.

Its soothing music and lyrics, filled with sincere emotions, will resonate with anyone who cares deeply for someone.

It’s a perfect track for moments when your feelings of love grow stronger or as background music while spending time with someone special.

Young and BeautifulLana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey – Young and Beautiful

The beautiful ballad woven from a sweet, wistful vocal and a grand orchestral sound portrays a pure yearning for eternal love.

Lana Del Rey’s heart-stirring melodies and striking lyrics, which capture the fragility of youth and beauty, sink deeply into the listener’s heart.

Released in April 2013, the piece drew worldwide attention as part of the soundtrack for the film The Great Gatsby.

Its majestic arrangement and the way it aligns with the film’s themes earned high acclaim, including a nomination at the 2013 Grammys.

It’s a recommended track for moments when you want to reaffirm your love for someone special or let your hidden feelings grow stronger.

SakuraMyuk

Myuk – Sakura (Music Video)

A fleetingly beautiful love ballad that resonates with the heart as spring arrives.

Released by Myuk in March 2025, “Sakura” sings of lingering attachment and a sense of farewell to a loved one you can no longer meet.

Her mysterious, gentle voice seems to tenderly envelop an unfulfilled love.

Coupled with the song’s dramatic progression, it’s truly a tearjerker.

It’s the perfect track for a quiet spring night, sitting by the window and getting lost in thought.