[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.

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.

trace (of someone/something), semblance, vestige; a lingering image or memory of how someone/something used to beNovelbright

Novelbright – Remnant [Official Music Video]

When you’re heartbroken and feeling down, I recommend trying to sing “Omokage.” It’s a song released by the rock band Novelbright.

This piano-centered ballad portrays the inability to forget an ex and the longing to see them again.

The high notes are beautifully featured, so if you’re good with higher ranges, you’ll be able to make the most of your voice.

It also seems like a great song to dedicate to a hurt friend—it’s sure to be healing.

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Just being alive is admirable.ReoNa

ReoNa “Just Being Alive Is Wonderful” - Lyric Video -

A ballad infused with ReoNa’s deep emotions, where a warm melody wrapped in kindness is accompanied by a soul-stirring voice.

It delicately portrays the hardships of living, the small setbacks in everyday life, and the subtle feelings of trying to overcome them.

Included as a track on the single “Nai Nai,” released in May 2021, it has soothed the hearts of many listeners.

This piece, in which the piano’s melody and ReoNa’s vocals blend beautifully, is a gem written and composed by Tota Kasamura.

Her voice, which gently stays close to a weary heart, is perfect for times when you want to be encouraged—or when you want to encourage someone else.

Kasane AiSoala

Soala – Kasaneai [Official Music Video]

Soala’s translucent vocals gently embrace the feelings that pass each other by and the wish to reunite, delicately expressing subtle emotions.

Released in January 2025 as a track on the EP “Bluem,” the song is distinguished by its piano-centered, gentle sound and memorable melodic lines.

The music video—featuring model Ryoka Orita and actor Yusei Ito—has also garnered attention, spreading waves of empathy across social media.

It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who carries a “what if”—wondering how things might have been if you’d met in a different way.

Bye For NowT-BOLAN

T-BOLAN「Bye For Now」MV

A gem of a ballad etched in the hearts of many as a supportive anthem about a beautiful farewell.

Released by T-BOLAN in November 1992, this song was used as the theme for Woman Dream and went on to become a million-seller.

Its powerful message—singing of the courage and hope to move toward one’s dreams after overcoming the loneliness of parting—deeply resonates with listeners.

It remains a beloved choice for moments like parting from someone dear, graduation ceremonies, and new beginnings, retaining its luster more than 30 years after its debut.

Featured on the albums HEART OF STONE and SINGLES, it shines brightly as one of T-BOLAN’s signature songs.

existenceTENSONG

TENSONG 'Existence' [Official Music Video]

This is a heart-stirring song by TENSONG that vividly portrays the pain of heartbreak.

Released in December 2020, the track was created by guitarist Takuman based on his real-life experience, carefully depicting the emotions of being trapped in memories while trying to take a new step forward.

Vocalist Takabo’s high-tone voice expresses those feelings beautifully, and the deeply resonant melody line leaves a strong impression.

The music video is an animated piece created by an illustrator who was their classmate and reached 1.8 million views in eight months.

It’s a song that offers comfort to those carrying the pain of a broken heart or who’ve experienced parting with someone important; we recommend listening to it alone on a quiet night.