[Tear-Jerking] Classic and Recommended Love Ballads

Shall we break up?Miyuhan

Miyuhan “Shall we break up?” [Music Video]

Some of you may be feeling down even though you were the one who ended the relationship.

“Wakare yokka” speaks on behalf of those feelings.

It’s a song by singer-songwriter Miyuhan, where her signature clear vocals are highlighted by a simple acoustic arrangement.

The lyrics, which portray the wavering of the heart leading up to the decision to break up, will likely feel personally relatable.

Even if that’s not your situation, it’s crafted in a way that you can still empathize with.

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Tearful KissSazan Ōrusutāzu

Tearful Kiss

A bittersweet yet beautiful melody that seeps into the heart, this ballad delicately portrays the protagonist’s sorrow and lingering feelings as they face a breakup with a lover.

The emotionally rich vocals woven by Southern All Stars, together with a simple instrumental arrangement, convey the pain of heartbreak with striking clarity.

Released in July 1992, it drew major attention as the theme song for the drama “Zutto Anata ga Suki Datta.” It became Southern All Stars’ first million-selling single and won the Excellence Award at the 34th Japan Record Awards.

Whether you’re seeking to heal the sadness of parting or reminiscing about past love, this song gently stays by your side—and continues to be a source of comfort for many to this day.

Midsummer FruitSazan Ōrusutāzu

Midsummer Fruit

A gemlike love ballad that vividly paints an inner landscape at summer’s end, where bittersweet sorrow melts into luscious scenes.

The lyrics strikingly capture the pain of heartbreak and the lingering passion of a memorable love.

Released by Southern All Stars in July 1990, the song was created as the theme for the film Inamura Jane, directed by Keisuke Kuwata.

It reached No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and earned Platinum certification.

It resonates especially deeply when you’re holding onto feelings of love or melancholy—and it’s a perfect track for the season when summer draws to a close.

Tears of MagnoliaSutādasuto☆Rebyū

Tears of Magnolia

A love ballad that sings of the profound sense of loss after losing the lover to whom eternal love was vowed.

Using the magnolia—the flower that symbolizes spring—as its motif, it beautifully depicts warm memories with a beloved person and the loneliness felt after their loss.

It was included as the first track on Stardust Revue’s album “SOLA,” released in March 1993, and was later released as a single, selling 150,000 copies.

In 2005, an acoustic version was produced for a Nikka Whisky commercial.

For those who have lost someone precious or who recall bittersweet memories in the spring season, this work will resonate deeply with your heart.

That’s all there is to it.Marushii

Marcy – It’s Just That (Official Music Video)

Be sure to check out the passionate love ballad “Tada Sore Dake no Koto ga sa” as well.

This song was produced by Marcy and has garnered attention as an insert track for the romance show “Koisuru ♥ Shūmatsu Homestay 2023 Spring ~Sweet Orange Memory~.” The lyrics depict a woman who has experienced heartbreak, looking back on the happy days the two of them spent together.

What stands out is the sprinkling of words that convey regret and a sense of putting on a brave face.

Give it a listen together with the drama-style music video featuring Rinka Kumada.

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the depths of the heartrokudenashi

Rokudenashi “In the Depths of the Heart” / Rokudenashi – Deep Down [Official Music Video]

A bittersweet love ballad by Rokudenashi that resonates deeply.

It weaves delicate words about the loneliness that comes at dusk and the urgent feelings hidden behind a smile.

While yearning to be loved, the wavering heart that hesitates to face its true feelings seeps in along with gentle piano melodies.

Released in February 2025 as the lead track from the album “Sigh,” this song reaches out to those who, even while carrying wounded, unsettled hearts, try to look ahead with cherished memories held close.

waiting in vainrokudenashi

Rokudenashi “Left Waiting” / Rokudenashi – Stood Me Up [Official Music Video]

This is a work by Rokudenashi, who began activities in 2021, delicately depicting the emotions of unrequited love.

The subtle shifts of a heart that can’t quite face the other person’s kindness, and the loneliness of being able only to watch them talk with someone else, leave a strong impression.

The vocals woven by Ninjin carry a warmth that feels like it gently heats the heart on a quiet winter night.

Written and composed by Hifumi, the song was released as a single in October 2021.

It’s a track that stands beside those troubled by love, offering empathy and comfort.

For anyone who holds a painful feeling they can’t confess to anyone—their love for someone dear—this song is meant for you.