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[For when you want to cry or feel sad] Tear-jerking masterpieces that make you cry when you listen

Even when you feel like crying, it’s not as easy to shed tears as it was when you were a child once you’ve grown up.

In this article, we’ll introduce a variety of songs perfect for when you want to cry—from tear-jerking melodies to moving masterpieces.

These are all tracks you can listen to alone at home and really let the tears flow.

We’ve gathered everything from classics to the latest hits: songs that help you free the part of yourself that can’t cry, and songs that stay close to your pain and lift you up.

Find that one song that speaks to your heart—and let yourself have a good, cathartic cry.

[For when you want to cry or feel sad] Tear-jerking classic songs that make you cry when you listen (111–120)

far; distant; by farGReeeeN

The song Haruka, which was used as the theme for the hit drama ROOKIES’ movie adaptation, has also become a staple graduation song.

Released in 2009, it’s GReeeeN’s ninth single.

For anyone living away from their parents, it’s a track that brings back memories of your younger self—the times you troubled your parents.

If you’re busy with everyday life, it might move you to tears, stirring up nostalgia for familiar faces and scenes and leaving you feeling sentimental.

Sayonara ColorSUPER BUTTER DOG

This is a single by SUPER BUTTER DOG released in 2001.

It’s a highly influential song—actor Naoto Takenaka even made the film “Sayonara Color” based on it.

The song calls out to us, saying that a breakup isn’t the end; from there, a new path can begin.

It also seems to prompt us to think about our true selves, singing about moving toward the future.

Its sorrowful yet gentle sound, which can bring tears to your eyes, is also memorable.

I can’t put it into wordsOda Kazumasa

Kazumasa Oda himself Kotoba ni Dekinai Full
I can't put it into wordsOda Kazumasa

As a singer-songwriter, Kazumasa Oda has sent many songs out into the night.

Among his works, this is one that has moved countless listeners over the years.

It’s also been featured in commercials, so I think many younger people will recognize it as well.

As the title suggests, the lyrics convey feelings so deep they can’t be put into words.

It doesn’t say much outright, but that in itself expresses the message of the song.

Combined with Oda’s clear, translucent voice, it’s a masterpiece that feels truly beautiful.

I’ll be by your side.Aoyama Teruma

Aoyama Thelma feat. SoulJa / I'm by Your Side
I'll be by your side.Aoyama Teruma

No matter what difficulties lie ahead, Soba ni Iru ne portrays someone thinking of the one they love.

It’s also known as a signature song by singer Thelma Aoyama, who delivers R&B-based tracks to listeners.

When you’re in a long-distance relationship or otherwise can’t easily see your partner, you can feel lonely.

At times like that, the lyrics—capturing both heartfelt consideration for the other person and one’s own true feelings—will stay close to your heart.

Set to a relaxed beat, give this love song a listen and let her gently warming vocals resonate with you.

periodIshizaki Hyuui

If you’ve been through a breakup or your heart is still healing, it might feel like anything you listen to or watch brings you to tears.

Huwie Ishizaki’s “Period” is truly a song about heartbreak—one that anyone who’s experienced it will relate to, gripping your chest tight.

In the chorus, a burst of poignancy and sadness crashes over you all at once.

The track is included on the 2018 best-of album “Huwie Best.” Masaki Suda’s tearful performance in the music video also makes it a real tearjerker.

I miss you so much, I want to see you.Nishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'I Miss You, I Miss You (short ver.)'
I miss you so much, I want to see you.Nishino Kana

More than anyone else, “Aitakute Aitakute” gives voice to the unbearable feeling of not being able to see the one you love.

Released in 2010 by singer Kana Nishino, who drew attention with songs told from a female perspective, it candidly expresses the loneliness and anxiety that arise when the distance grows between lovers you thought would be together forever.

Her emotional vocals over an R&B-style beat convey the aching sorrow.

Even while knowing they can no longer love each other, the song portrays the overflowing, honest feelings of heartbreak.

It’s a number that will resonate with anyone who finds themselves thinking about an ex.

passing by each otherSoala

[Lyric Video] Passing Each Other - Soala
passing by each otherSoala

“Sorechigai” is a song that gives voice to the pent-up emotions of being told goodbye by someone you love.

Released in 2023 by singer-songwriter Soala, who rose to popularity through social media platforms like TikTok, the track blends a rhythmic R&B groove with her emotional vocals.

It portrays a bittersweet love that keeps asking the other person the same questions, even while knowing they are drifting apart.

The song’s structure—spoken, intimate verses that build into a passionate, soaring chorus—conveys an overflowing love, making it a poignant breakup anthem.