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

Hold me tight, all of meyoshida takurou

Hold me tight, all of me

This song was written as the theme for the TV show “LOVE LOVE Aishiteru” and has continued to be widely loved.

Born from a collaboration with KinKi Kids, it features warm lyrics about embracing everything about the one you love, which really resonates.

Its easy-to-remember melody and clap-along rhythm feel great, making it a lively pop number that brings the whole venue together at concerts.

It was included on the album “Minna Daisuki,” released in November 1997, and in July 1998 KinKi Kids released it as a single, which became a million seller.

Originating from a TV show project and spreading from there, it’s a masterpiece whose different versions remain vivid in many people’s memories.

It’s the perfect song to lift your spirits when you’re feeling down, or to sing joyfully with friends at karaoke.

A devoted girl.Yuika

A single-minded girl. / 'Yuika' [MV]

This piece sets straightforward feelings of love to a bright band sound.

Released in April 2025 with Ryo Hanai handling the arrangement, it vividly captures a fresh page of youth.

Written back in high school, it carefully and realistically weaves words of inner conflict over unrequited love and unwavering devotion.

There’s plenty here that younger listeners will relate to.

If you’re in the middle of a one-sided crush, give it a listen!

Route 66BUMP OF CHICKEN

Tried playing guitar: Route 66/BUMP OF CHICKEN

I think this song is a rare love song among BUMP OF CHICKEN’s tracks.

With Fujiwara’s sweet vocals asking, “Would you still love me even if I lost my voice?”, it makes my heart ache.

The lyrics, so characteristic of BUMP, are also a highlight.

Snow BlossomNakajima Mika

Mika Nakashima 'Yuki no Hana' Music Video

When it comes to Mika Nakashima’s winter songs, this is without a doubt the one.

Many people were probably captivated by her fragile presence in the music video.

Even if your lover isn’t nearby, it’s easy to relate to the feeling of wanting to be together when the snow falls.

One million “I love you”sRake

Rake "One Million Times 'I Love You'"

This is a very famous love song by Rake.

If you’re a woman, you’d probably love to hear “I love you” a million times, right? If you listen to it while thinking of someone you like, you might find yourself smiling without even realizing it.

Spot the differenceSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

This work, in which Masaki Suda—active as an actor—sings a song by Kenshi Yonezu, was released as a digital single in May 2019.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Perfect World,” it garnered enormous attention, winning 32 awards.

It tells the story of a protagonist who once felt like a mistake, but finds the meaning of life through meeting someone precious—deeply resonating with those who struggle with self-denial.

A fated love so powerful that questions of right or wrong cease to matter is conveyed through Masaki Suda’s strong, straightforward vocals, stirring the heart with every listen.

It is one of his signature tracks, also included on the album “LOVE.”

Akatoki Reloadaiko

aiko - “Akatoki Reload” music video

A love song by aiko, memorable for its lyrics and melody that resonate deeply with the heart.

Released as a digital-only single in January 2023 as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Thursday drama “Marriage Is Difficult Even for a Ninja,” it was later included on the album “Ima no Futari o Otagai ga Miteru.” Showcasing aiko’s delicate sensibilities, the song beautifully captures the bittersweet emotions of someone in love.

It vividly portrays complex feelings surrounding romance—such as the desire to cherish a world for just the two of you, and the loneliness that can arise even when you love someone deeply.

It’s a recommended track for those who want a song to lean on during the ambiguous hours before dawn.