[Songs for Thinking of Someone You Love] Love Songs That Make Your Chest Tighten—From Unrequited to Mutual Love

to youMONGOL800

To You by MONGOL800

A signature number from MONGOL800 that blends the warmth and exhilarating drive of Okinawa’s breeze.

The lyrics, written in straightforward words, convey overflowing feelings for a loved one directly, heating listeners’ hearts.

Released in September 2001, it’s included on the classic album “MESSAGE,” which sold over 2.8 million copies.

Though not a single, it has been featured in a detergent commercial, the film “Utatama♪,” and the drama “Ososaki no Himawari,” and has been loved for many years.

Its appeal is also evident from covers by artists like Mrs.

GREEN APPLE.

Its unadorned words give a push to one-sided love and help deepen the bond between two people.

Love and romanceNovelbright

Novelbright – Love and Romance [Official Music Video]

When you think of someone you love, the usual scenery looks different… This is a Novelbright song perfect for moments like that.

Included on the album “Assort,” released in May 2022, it has earned widespread support as the lead track.

It features a pleasant rhythm woven by acoustic guitar and electronic drums, with Yudai Takenaka’s clear, translucent vocals resonating deeply.

Many listeners will relate to the lyrics, which express a love too great to be fully conveyed in words.

When the music video was released in April 2022, actress Nagisa Sekimizu appeared, drawing attention.

Whether you’re nursing a crush or spending time with a partner, listen while thinking of someone precious to you.

Vanillakyanai

Kyannai – Vanilla [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Singer-songwriter Kyanai, who gained attention through street performances and social media posts.

Released in March 2022, this piece is a captivating track featuring a lingering piano melody and a sweet singing voice.

At first glance it seems like a happy love song, but in fact it carries feelings for a lover they can no longer meet.

That deep narrative quality captured the hearts of many listeners, earning it the top spot on Billboard JAPAN’s 2022 “Heatseekers Songs.” The delicate world depicted in the music video further enhances the song’s poignancy.

It’s a companion not only for joyful moments spent with someone dear, but also for quiet nights when you want to think of someone alone.

cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai

Ai Otsuka / Sakuranbo

A signature pop tune that represents Ai Otsuka.

The lyrics depict a couple snuggled close like two neighboring fruits, and just listening makes you feel happy, doesn’t it? It’s filled with the unpretentious everyday moments and deepening love of a couple who’ve been together for two years.

Released in December 2003 as her second single, the song was featured as the ending theme for the variety show “Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!” among others.

It’s perfect not only for hyping things up at karaoke, but also for reaffirming your feelings for someone you love.

Enjoy the sweet-and-sour pangs of young love with an energetic, uplifting sound!

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

Released in June 2013, this track portrays unrequited love for a woman who feels out of reach.

Despite its upbeat, refreshing sound, it poignantly depicts the frustration of being seen only as “Acquaintance B” and the protagonist’s melancholy as he imagines what her ideal boyfriend might be like.

It maintained high positions on the Billboard JAPAN charts for an extended period, and in July 2024 surpassed 500 million cumulative streams.

In 2019, it was also featured in a Kirin Brewery “Tanrei Green Label” commercial.

The disco-style drum beat and driving melody express both the ache of unrequited love and the sparkle of youth, making it a song that gives a gentle push to those in love.

I tried falling in love with you.chay

chay "I Tried Falling in Love with You" (short ver.)

The sixth single released in February 2015 by chay, who is active as both a model and a singer-songwriter, became popular as the theme song for the Getsuku drama “Date: What Is Love?” starring Anne (Anne Watanabe).

The song is packed with the pure feelings of a protagonist who’s clumsy in love.

Its retro, pop sound reminiscent of the ’60s, enhanced by glamorous strings, perfectly captures the giddy excitement of the moment love begins.

The lyrics portray that magically empowering feeling that makes you think you can do anything just because someone you like exists—something many listeners are sure to relate to.

It’s a pop number you’ll want to play to lift your spirits, like before meeting someone you love.

By your side.riria.

riria. / By Your Side [Music Video]

Many people have probably had the frustrating experience of falling for someone popular who’s kind to everyone.

This work portrays the sweet yet bittersweet feeling of wishing that such a person would “look only at me.” Some may find themselves identifying with the protagonist, who truly wants to have them all to themselves but can’t be honest about it.

The song was included on the May 2022 EP “Kiroku” (Record) and watched over the course of love as an insert track in a dating reality show.

If you’re struggling to confess your feelings to someone you like, why not let this song give you a gentle push?