Unrequited love songs recommended for women in their 40s: classic and popular Japanese tracks

Like when we first metEvery Little Thing

"Like When We First Met" MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

For many women now in their 40s who spent their teenage years to early twenties in the mid-to-late 1990s, Every Little Thing holds a special place.

Back then, plenty of people imitated Kaori Mochida’s fashion and hairstyles.

ELT’s classic songs are still hugely popular at karaoke even in the Reiwa era, but if you’re aiming for a high score, we recommend the 1997 hit “Deatta Koro no You ni.” Its quintessential late-’90s Avex-style sound and melody make it very easy to sing, and since there aren’t any tricky sections, it’s less likely you’ll go off-pitch.

The overall key is on the higher side, so if you have a lower voice, try adjusting the key to suit you before singing.

KissHugaiko

aiko- 『KissHug』music video

“KissHug” is aiko’s 24th single, released in 2008.

She fell in love with him at first sight, but they stayed just friends from then on.

Yet to her, he wasn’t a mere “friend” but someone she loved.

However, to him, she was “just a friend.” This kind of relationship is both painful and heartrending, and that feeling really comes through.

Wine Red Heartanzenchitai

Wine Red No Kokoro

A gem of a love song that portrays an adult romance where reason and instinct intersect.

Its melody, passionate yet tinged with a certain fragility, and Koji Tamaki’s sweet, aching vocals resonate deeply.

When we look back on the loves of our past, perhaps the memories of forbidden romances we all may have experienced will vividly return.

Released in November 1983, this track became Anzen Chitai’s first number-one hit on the Oricon charts.

It also drew major attention as the image song for Suntory Akadama Punch’s commercial and as the theme song for the drama “Machigai Darake no Otto Erabi” (“Choosing the Wrong Husband”).

I recommend this piece to those who have experienced profound love that touches on the subtleties of life, or to anyone who wishes to convey long-slumbering feelings in their heart to someone special.

I’m only gazing at you.Daikoku Maki

Only Looking at You (2019 Remastered)

This song poignantly portrays a woman’s bittersweet feelings as she changes herself for love.

Her determination and inner conflict to be reborn for her lover are depicted in contrast to the upbeat melody.

Maki Ohguro’s powerful vocals vividly express the protagonist’s pain and wavering emotions.

Released in December 1993, it was chosen as the ending theme for the anime SLAM DUNK.

Within about three months of its release, it became a million seller and has been included on multiple albums, such as “Toward the Eternal Dream” and “BACK BEATs #1.” It’s a song I especially recommend to those who can relate to the struggle between staying true to oneself and being in love.

Its heartrending melody and down-to-earth lyrics gently embrace the complex emotions of romance.

LOVE 2000hitomi

hitomi / LOVE 2000

Born amid hopes and anxieties for a new century, this universally resonant song questions the essence of love.

Hitomi’s powerful vocals and forward-looking melody are perfectly balanced, and the work conveys a straightforward stance and strong will that face reality while gazing toward the future.

Released in June 2000, it was chosen as the image song for Nippon TV’s “Gekikukan Pro Yakyu 2000.” It also drew attention when Sydney Olympics women’s marathon gold medalist Naoko Takahashi revealed she listened to it before training.

If you’re a man in your 40s who spent his youth in the 2000s, consider adding this classic to your karaoke lineup.

Make me believeBENI

Make Me Believe – BENI Bitter & Sweet Release Tour FINAL

“Shinjisasete” is a song included on BENI’s 2009 album “Bitter & Sweet.” It’s about meeting someone when you’re worn out after a painful breakup with a previous partner.

You’re so afraid of losing them that you can’t confess your feelings, and the relationship just goes on like that.

As we become adults, the desire to avoid getting hurt grows stronger, and it gets harder to take that first step.

It’s a song I can really relate to.

As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE

Again and Again – DREAMS COME TRUE (Full)

I don’t think there’s any other unrequited love this bold.

Even if it doesn’t work out again and again, there’s an unwavering determination to never give up—after all, even if you fail 10,000 times, you still think the 10,001st time might just work! It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants to reaffirm their resolve not to give up.