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

I wannaTomioka Ai

Ai Tomioka – I Wanna (Music Video)

A breezy pop tune that evokes both the thrill and the ache of love, highlighted by Ai Tomioka’s translucent vocals.

Released in May 2024, the track deftly captures the gamelike nature and uncertainty of romance.

You can’t help but relate to lyrics woven from the desire to “touch” and the struggle of “I mustn’t.” The wordplay hiding the phrase “ai-wana” (“love trap”) within the repeated title line is brilliant as well.

It’s a perfect song for when you want to deepen a relationship or are wrestling with love’s complexities.

Each listen reveals something new—an impressively layered piece.

It was all you.Yamazaki Masayoshi

Masayoshi Yamazaki – Zenbu Kimidatta

A memorable classic marked by a heart-trembling melody and poignant lyrics.

As a ballad mourning lost love, it offers comfort to many listeners.

The recurring phrase “It was all you” reflects a heart wavering between lingering attachment to the past and a new beginning.

Masayoshi Yamazaki’s gentle vocals tenderly embrace the bittersweet feelings anyone might experience, making this a captivating track.

Released in March 2003, it was Yamazaki’s first work to include a DVD.

A deeply moving song recommended for those troubled by love or recovering from heartbreak.

One Lovearashi

One Love – Arashi

There are several love songs by Arashi, but isn’t the most famous one the track used in the movie Boys Over Flowers? Having someone vow to love you even a hundred years from now—what woman wouldn’t want to hear that at least once? It’s a song full of longing and romance.

Our happiest life together.Hirai Dai

Dai Hirai / Our Happiest Life Together (Music Video)

A heartwarming love song that sings about happy everyday moments with a special someone, carried by a sweet melody.

Dai Hirai’s gentle vocals evoke peaceful times with a lover.

It’s the title track of the August 2024 EP “Kimi to Boku no Saikōna Seikatsu.” themed around “the best songs to listen to with you on the beach.” The soft sound woven by simple guitar and vocals is striking.

It’s a lovely track that makes you realize that the ordinary days with the one you love are the greatest happiness.

Perfect as background music for a drive or a seaside date.

You are honeydew.Hinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46 “You Are Honeydew”

A love song inspired by sweet melons has arrived from Hinatazaka46! With unique, fruit-themed expressions, it sings about special feelings for a loved one.

There are melons all over the world, but only you are special.

That sentiment is carried by a catchy melody.

It’s the title track of their 11th single, “You Are Honeydew,” released in May 2024, with lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto.

The lyrics that evoke a connection from a past life are also striking.

It’s a song overflowing with positive energy that makes the feeling of love bubble up.

Perfect for summer drive dates or chatting with friends!

Can I try saying “I love you”?Matsushita Kohei

Kohei Matsushita – Is It Okay If I Say I Love You? (Music Video)

A warm, gem-like love song filled with sincere expressions of affection for a partner.

It captures the desire to overcome the small misunderstandings and clashes that arise in a relationship and to be able to honestly say, “I love you.” Kouhei Matsushita’s warm vocals gently give voice to these feelings.

Released digitally in October 2024, the song was written and composed by Takahito Uchisawa of androp, and together with Matsushita’s soulful singing, it resonates deeply with listeners.

Portraying the importance of the little moments in everyday life where we notice love, this track is also perfect as a wedding song.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to reaffirm their feelings for someone special.

Midsummer FruitKuwata Keisuke

Midsummer Fruit / Southern All Stars (Cover)

This is a song by Keisuke Kuwata, who is also active as a member of Southern All Stars.

Mr.

Kuwata is famously from Chigasaki City in Kanagawa Prefecture.

Chigasaki, which is also a popular beach destination, is said to have a place called Southern Beach.

I’d love to visit sometime.

The song has a warmth that feels like love being spoken on a midsummer shore.