[Tear-Jerking] Classic and Recommended Love Ballads

tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

It’s a painfully honest story song that realistically portrays heartbreak.

Over more than six minutes, post-breakup emotions are carefully traced alongside the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar.

A pack of cigarettes left behind by an ex becomes the trigger for recalling the time they spent together, and looking back, only regret remains—such a bittersweet inner landscape is woven through Koresawa’s delicate vocals.

Released in March 2017, just before her major-label debut, this piece can be considered a culmination of her work.

It’s also included on the album “Korekara,” where it continues to be loved.

The melodious, straightforward lyrics are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

On nights when you want to face your own feelings, try singing it at karaoke.

Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – Ballad of a Singer (2008 Ver.) [Music Video]

This is a bittersweet yet warm song that begins with a simple acoustic guitar tone.

It conveys the weight carried by the words “I love you,” intertwining a moving expression of deep love with the meaning of singing as a performer—truly a masterpiece.

Released in November 1997, its heartfelt vocals and universal message captured many hearts despite its simple sound.

It was chosen as the theme song for the animated film “Lu Over the Wall,” and has been embraced by even more listeners across generations.

With Kazuyoshi Saito’s characteristically warm vocals and memorable melody, it’s easy to sing at karaoke and is recommended when you want to convey your feelings to someone special or sing with heartfelt emotion.

Time lapse (feat. Yella.E)/kocchi no kento

Time lapse (feat. Yella.E) / Kent from this side

A heartrending love ballad that shines with the seamless harmonies of Japanese and Korean artists.

Kocchi no Kento welcomes Yella.E for this track, released in March 2025.

As time passes and the sky’s colors shift, they layer in feelings that never quite reach their destination.

The first verse paints everyday scenes, while the second sketches romantic scenery, delicately capturing the heart’s subtle tremors.

Why not listen to this pure duet of love—one that transcends language barriers—together with someone special?

Liar MoonYorushika

Liar

It is a ballad marked by the quiet melody of the piano and Suis’s gentle vocals.

Through vivid depictions of scenes in the rain and the symbolic image of drinking down moonlight, it delicately portrays the protagonist’s emotions as they face loss and loneliness.

Produced in June 2020 as the ending song for the Netflix feature-length animated film A Whisker Away, the piece was composed by Yorushika’s n-buna to reflect the film’s worldview while capturing the atmosphere from spring to early summer.

It is a song that will deeply resonate with those who wish to relive a fragile yet beautiful page of youth, as well as those who have experienced parting with someone dear.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

The gem-like ballad by Yo Hitoto, woven with her gentle singing voice, was born in the wake of the September 11 attacks.

Its prayer-like, tender melody and lyrics filled with wishes for another’s happiness sink deeply into the listener’s heart.

Since its release in February 2004, it has been featured as a film theme song and in JRA commercials, and it won an Excellence Award at the Japan Cable Radio Awards.

It remained in the karaoke rankings’ Top 5 for 90 consecutive weeks and has become a classic covered by many artists.

It’s the perfect song for quietly reflecting on your feelings for someone important, or when you sincerely want to wish someone happiness.

SymphonyHirai Dai

Hirai Dai / Symphony (Music Video)

Characterized by warm, heartfelt vocals and a grand orchestral arrangement, this gem of a love ballad gives voice to the universal longing for a hero and the resolve to protect the ones we cherish.

Infused with Dai Hirai’s perspective as a father, it carries a powerful message brimming with hope and love for the future.

Released in April 2023 as the theme song for the film TOKYO MER: Mobile Emergency Room – The Movie, it marked Hirai’s first theme for a live-action film.

The song is also included on his best-of album LOVE＋PEACE, released in May of the same year.

This track is perfect for new beginnings with someone special, pivotal moments in life, or any time you need the courage to face forward.

Wrapped in its warm vocals, it’s sure to help you take that first step toward tomorrow.

Agate Caressed by NightAyase

Yoru Naderu Agate / Ayase (self cover)

A beautiful ballad from Ayase’s solo project that poignantly paints the depths of the night.

Included on the first EP, “Ghost City Tokyo,” released in November 2019, this piece vividly portrays the emotions of a man and woman who have no choice but to decide on parting from a loved one.

In a city after the last train has gone, a young man looks back on their relationship; his frustrated feelings as he senses the approaching goodbye are conveyed alongside an urban, mellow sound.

The wavering between wishing for a night with no terminus and trying to accept reality—tenderness toward the other person and a lingering regret—soaks into the heart with the melancholic melody line.

It’s a work that shines with adult sophistication and delicate emotional expression, perfect for a late-night drive or quiet time.