Recommended breakup songs for women in their 50s: classic and popular Japanese tracks

Cheer up!Yakushimaru Hiroko

Hiroko Yakushimaru – Cheer Up (Live)

A gem of a song whose heartwarming message gently encourages a friend hurting from heartbreak, resonating deep in the chest.

Mariya Takeuchi’s self-cover is well known, but the song was originally written by Takeuchi for Hiroko Yakushimaru.

It was included as the first track on the album “Kokonshū,” released in February 1984, and has soothed countless hearts.

Carried by a gentle piano melody, the clear, translucent vocals speak with an embracing tenderness.

It’s a song that makes you feel as if a close friend is right by your side.

When your spirit is on the verge of breaking, or when you want to lift someone up, it will surely be a powerful ally.

Love is overOuyou Hi

Love Is Over

A heartbreak song by Fifi Ouyang about an older woman telling her younger lover goodbye—a poignant decision.

It portrays the strength to cut off a coddling relationship and the deep love she still feels.

Released in July 1979, it was originally a B-side but later became a hit, winning the Long-Seller Award at the Japan Record Awards in 1983.

Recommended for anyone who can relate to the complex emotions of love for a partner intertwined with the resolve to part ways.

Make me cryNaoko Ken

Make me cry

A song that pours the pain of heartbreak into a beautiful melody.

Naoko Ken’s rich, sultry voice fully conveys the bittersweet emotions.

It resonates with the importance of accepting sorrow as it is and freeing your feelings.

Released in November 1983, it was performed at the 34th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen and captured the hearts of many.

It’s a track not only for those who’ve experienced heartbreak, but also for moments when you want to remember someone dear.

Time goes byEvery Little Thing

Time goes by – Every Little Thing (Full)

It’s one of Every Little Thing’s signature songs, isn’t it? “Time goes by” is a single released in 1998, and people in their 40s and 50s are surely familiar with it.

In its lyrics and melody alike, it’s a heartbreaking love song that tightens your chest.

If you’ve broken up with someone you love and are in the midst of heartbreak, you probably find yourself thinking, “If only I’d done this then… and that then…” filled with regrets and thoughts about things that can’t be changed now.

This is a breakup song that gently soothes you while staying close to those feelings.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

366 daysHY

HY 366 Days LIVE

When it comes to breakup songs, this one is practically unmissable—the iconic heartbreak anthem “366 Days.” Included on the 2008 album “HeartY,” it’s a track that has been covered by many artists.

The lyrics vividly capture the painful realization of someone you love gradually drifting away, with such realism that it tightens your chest—something many listeners can surely relate to.

Even knowing those feelings won’t be returned, the desire to keep loving them anyway brings tears to your eyes.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem