Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 40s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
Here are some tear-jerking J-Pop songs I’d recommend for women in their 40s!
Your 40s can be a busy time, with lots of changes both at work and in your personal life.
In the midst of an overly hectic routine, you might feel worn out or suddenly feel like crying when you finally get a moment to breathe.
At times like that, why not listen to some songs that let you cry and reset your feelings?
I’ve gathered a variety of moving tracks—songs you might have listened to in your youth, as well as ones that resonate precisely because of the age you are now.
When your body and mind both feel unsettled, please give them a listen.
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Tearjerker songs recommended for women in their 40s: Japanese classics and popular hits (1–10)
Tears Flowing EndlesslyNatsukawa Rimi
This is the third single by Rimi Natsukawa, a singer from Okinawa who won the Grand Prix at the Nagasaki Kayō Festival as a first-year junior high school student—the youngest winner in the event’s history—and who originally debuted as an enka singer.
The song is also known for having been covered by many artists, including its creator Ryoko Moriyama and BEGIN.
The poignant lyrics, written in memory of her older brother who passed away young, may resonate with women in their forties who have experienced many encounters and farewells.
With melodies and arrangements that evoke the warmth of Okinawa and soothe the heart, it is a classic that was selected as one of the 100 Best Japanese Songs.
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki
This is the third single by singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara, who has produced numerous masterpieces, including SMAP’s signature song “Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana.” Chosen as the theme song for the film “Shūshoku Sensō Ijō Nashi” (No Abnormalities in the Job-Hunting Front), it became a major hit that made Makihara—who was still a university student at the time—widely known.
Women in their 40s who likely heard it in real time may now find themselves receiving its powerful, encouraging lyrics in a new light.
With a timeless message and melody that remain vibrant regardless of the era, it’s a pop tune that stirred hearts and stands as a defining song of the 1990s J-pop scene.
Tears of MagnoliaSutaadasuto Rebyuu
Since their formation in 1979, Stardust Revue—a four-member band long beloved for their ephemeral, wistful vocals—released this as their 25th single.
Widely known through numerous covers by other artists, it has become a karaoke staple and one of their signature songs.
Its lyrics, which yearn for someone dear, tell a story that resonates with women in their forties who have accumulated a wealth of life experience.
From a transparent, spacious opening that gradually shifts into a rock ensemble, the arrangement exudes melancholy—an immortal classic.
Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 40s: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (11–20)
OrangeSMAP
Named after the initials of “Sports Music Assemble People,” SMAP is a beloved national idol group whose reunion is still eagerly hoped for even after their breakup.
This song, the B-side to their massively successful 32nd single “Lion Heart,” remains highly popular among fans and is even said to be “SMAP’s most well-known B-side in Japan.” Though it’s a breakup song told from a male perspective, imagining it through your own experiences may make you feel a heart-wrenching poignancy.
It’s a hidden gem that every woman in her 40s—the SMAP generation—should listen to at least once.
DearNakajima Mika
I think everyone has someone unforgettable they’ve met in their life, and an unforgettable love.
This song that brings such a person to mind is Mika Nakashima’s “Dear.” Released in 2011 as Mika Nakashima’s 33rd single, it was also the theme song for the film “Rebirth” (Yokame no Semi) starring Mao Inoue.
It’s a tear-jerking number with heartrending lyrics that seem to pack in all the feelings for the person who made you experience a love that could change your life.
nape (of the neck)aiko
There are many aiko songs that make you cry, but this one is a must.
“Eriashi” is a single released in 2003, and many people might remember listening to it back then and shedding tears.
For those in their 40s, aiko is a peer—someone whose real, relatable songs were always by your side, someone you grew up with through her music.
It’s a heart-wrenching love song that looks back on a past romance and keeps that unforgettable person locked away in your heart.
FlowerORANGE RANGE
Orange Range, known for their high-energy summer anthems, also has a tear-jerking ballad with a strong image: Hana.
The song was a hit as the theme for the film Be With You, promoted with the tagline “The Range That Makes You Cry.” It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call it one of ORANGE RANGE’s signature tracks.
The lyrics are filled with gentle, beautiful phrases, and the yearning to convey that tenderness to someone you love makes it a moving number that brings tears.
Even if it’s not about romance, listening to it while thinking of someone important to you will likely bring not tears of sadness, but tears of deep emotion.