Empathy and recovery songs to heal a heart hurt by divorce

At HomeNakajima Miyuki

At Home

This is a work by Miyuki Nakajima that portrays the resolve to sever ties with the place one ought to return to and to live in the place one stands now.

Watching the last train bound for her hometown depart, the protagonist deliberately chooses not to go back—an image that overlaps with the loneliness and determination of someone breaking away from their past life to walk a new path alone.

The piece was included on the acclaimed 1977 June release “A-RI-GA-TO-U” and is also widely known as the B-side to the smash single “Wakare Uta.” It has been cherished as a song that colors the world of dramas crafted by So Kuramoto as well.

The warm folk sound seems to gently envelop both the loneliness that follows a major decision and the strength to keep looking forward despite it.

Tulipindigo la End

indigo la End “Tulip”

This is a song by indigo la End that beautifully portrays the pain and fragility of a love born from heartbreak.

Using the meanings of three tulip colors as motifs—red for “true love,” white for “lost love,” and yellow for “hopeless love”—it depicts the heartrending emotions of a protagonist completely dyed in the other person’s color.

The band’s gentle performance and Enon Kawatani’s delicate vocals envelop the feelings that waver between clinging and acceptance.

Released as a digital single in February 2020 and later included on the album “Yako Himitsu,” this piece resonates with those facing the end of a romance or reflecting on a past love.

Song of PartingNakajima Miyuki

Farewell Song

This is a song by Miyuki Nakajima that portrays a heartrending farewell where all you can do is watch the other person walk away.

The work depicts a protagonist who, while still holding onto lingering attachment and kindness for the other person, accepts an inescapable loneliness they can do nothing about.

The complex emotions born from years spent together are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced the major turning point of divorce.

Released in September 1977, the song became Miyuki Nakajima’s first to top the Oricon charts.

It’s also known for being used as background music in the drama “Tokusou Saizensen.” You can also hear it on the album “Aishiteiru to Ittekure.” On nights when you feel crushed by an unbearable loneliness, don’t you think listening to this song might make you feel your feelings are being affirmed?

Close your eyesHirai Ken

Ken Hirai 'Close Your Eyes' MUSIC VIDEO

When I wake up in the morning, I can feel the empty shell of the person I once loved lying beside me.

This song by Ken Hirai portrays that sudden sense of loss that visits in ordinary, fleeting moments.

Close your eyes and memories of happier days return in vivid detail, but open them and there’s no one there.

That inescapable reality pierces your heart, doesn’t it? The longer you spent together, the more indelible the memories become—how painfully ironic.

Released in April 2004, the song topped the Oricon Yearly Chart as the theme for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World.” For those who have gone through the profound parting of divorce and now simply want to dwell in their sorrow, this is a song that quietly stays by your side.

NEW YEAR’S EVEHamada Shogo

NEW YEAR’S EVE Shogo Hamada

A classic ballad by singer-songwriter Shogo Hamada that portrays the gentle parting of two people who have been together for many years.

You can almost see the scene of a New Year’s Eve night when, caring for each other yet choosing different paths for the sake of their respective futures, they decide to part ways.

Listening to this song, some may quietly reflect on a past farewell and wonder, “Did that decision allow us both to take a new step forward?” The track was included on the album FATHER’S SON, released in March 1988, and was later self-covered by Hamada.

For those who have had to make a painful choice, this song may feel like one that gently embraces that decision and gives you the strength to look ahead—an intimate companion to the heart.

for a whilerikon densetsu

Divorce Legend – For a While (Official Music Video)

A song by Divorce Densetsu that intertwines the melancholy of lost love with the strength to overcome it.

They say it took about three years from the start of their activities to complete this track.

Even as it feels the pain of letting go of a past relationship, its determination to move forward is sure to resonate deeply with anyone who’s been through a major parting.

For those who only suffer more by forcing themselves to forget, it feels like the song gently says, “It’s okay to be just as you are.” You can regret the past and worry about the future—just don’t give up on living in the present.

Doesn’t the creator’s warm message make your heart feel a little lighter?

Love me, Love youMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Love me, Love you

A pop tune by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that portrays the many forms of love found around the world, set to a bright, upbeat melody.

With the feel of a musical-style show, it reminds us that all kinds of love— from the everyday life of lovers to family bonds and friendships—shine all around us.

Released in February 2018 and included on the album ENSEMBLE, the song was later chosen as the theme for the drama Onzoshi Boys starring Yuna Taira.

Even if you’ve had a fight with your partner, listening to this track will help you remember the warmth of love and face each other with honesty.

It’s a recommended song for anyone who wants to cherish their encounter with their partner and build a better relationship.