[Tear-Jerking] Classic and Recommended Love Ballads

WHYKato Miria

Miliyah Kato “WHY”

Miliyah Kato’s number, born from the “why?” that arises out of romantic miscommunication, resonates painfully deep in the heart.

Set to a powerful, rock-tinged sound, this song straightforwardly expresses irreconcilable feelings and a cry from the heart.

Even while carrying a sense of helplessness, you can feel the strength to keep moving forward.

Released in November 2009, it reached No.

10 on the Oricon weekly chart and was later included on the acclaimed album HEAVEN.

When you don’t understand how the other person feels and are suffering from questions with no answers, listening to it might feel like it speaks your emotions for you.

It’s sure to gently stay by the side of anyone struggling with a frustrating love.

YOU… feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY)Kato Miria

Miliyah Kato “YOU… feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY)”

Speaking of collaborations between powerhouse female singers, we can’t forget this song by Miliyah Kato and Izumi Nakasone of HY.

Based on real unrequited-love stories sent in by radio listeners, the two artists co-created this gem of a ballad.

Released in September 2014 as their 30th single, it was also included on the milestone 10th-anniversary album “MUSE.” The frustration of not being able to put your feelings into words, and the emotional wavering as you move toward confessing your love, come through poignantly in the harmony between Kato’s delicate vocals and Nakasone’s warm voice.

Chosen as the theme song for a radio drama, this track just might gently give you the push you need if you’re struggling with a one-sided love.

Love ForeverKatō Miriya × Shimizu Shōta

Miliyah Kato × Shota Shimizu “Love Forever”

The golden duo representing the J-POP scene, Miliyah Kato and Shota Shimizu, have an unmissable duet song.

While celebrating the joy of meeting, its lyrics occasionally hint at an inevitable end, making it achingly bittersweet and tightening your chest.

Told from both of their perspectives, it’s a track that powerfully conveys gratitude toward the person who saved them from lonely days.

Released in May 2009 as a single by Miliyah Kato and included on the classic album “Ring,” the song became hugely popular, with its music video winning an award at MTV VMAJ 2010.

The section in the latter half where their harmonies intertwine is a must-hear.

It’s a masterpiece perfect for nights when you want to bask in the beautiful memories and bittersweetness of love.

heartbeatFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Heartbeat <31st Anniv. Live “Slow Collection”> (Short ver.)

A poignant yet warm ballad that captivatingly portrays the turmoil of an unexpected love.

The protagonist, who had decided never to fall in love, grapples with confusion and a loneliness hidden behind a brave front, all conveyed through Masaharu Fukuyama’s richly emotive vocals.

Included on his original album “AKIRA,” released in December 2020—his first in six years and eight months—the song was chosen as the theme for the drama “#Remolove: Normal Love Is for the Weak.” Its delicate melody reflects the nuances of the protagonist’s emotions, making it a deeply satisfying listen.

Try listening while thinking of someone special.

BelieveChe’Nelle

Che’Nelle – Believe

Che’Nelle’s soul-stirring voice permeates the heart in this sweeping ballad.

The song movingly portrays unwavering trust in a loved one and a steadfast belief in the future, no matter what obstacles stand in the way.

Chosen as the theme song for the film “BRAVE HEARTS: Umizaru,” released in July 2012, it left a deep impression on many.

Listen to it by the seaside at dusk or under a star-filled sky while thinking of someone dear, and you’ll feel a gentle warmth, as if it’s softly encouraging you forward.

The holeKing Gnu

King Gnu – The hole

A ballad that gently accompanies those carrying loneliness, loss, and wounded hearts.

It begins with a serene piano melody, then unfolds into a deeply poignant soundscape woven from strings and reverb-laden drums.

The lyrics, crafted by Daiki Tsuneta, express profound empathy for people bearing emotional scars and a powerful desire to protect the ones they love.

The music video, directed by filmmaker Takuya Uchiyama, beautifully portrays the shifting dynamics of a couple’s love.

When you want to take time alone to face yourself, or when your heart feels unsettled, this work offers quiet healing along with deep resonance.

ALONEB’z

B’z / ALONE

Under the twilight sky, standing alone while thinking of a loved one.

It conjures a poignant yet beautiful scene—an exquisite ballad that represents B’z.

The lyrics, which portray how time apart only deepens one’s feelings for the other, are truly heart-wrenching.

Released in October 1991, the song became a million-seller as the theme for the drama “Hotel Woman.” In live performances, Koshi Inaba’s piano-and-vocal rendition has become a legendary moment among fans.

Listen to it on a night spent alone, and it will gently keep your lonely heart company.