Tear ducts guaranteed to burst! Heart-wrenching masterpiece songs I’d recommend to Gen Z

AzaleaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Azalea

A song by Kenshi Yonezu written as the theme for the Netflix drama “Sayonara no Tsuzuki.” Reflecting the story of meeting a stranger who has inherited the heart of a lost lover, it portrays the sorrow of losing someone beloved and the hope that life carries on nonetheless.

Blending delicate piano melodies with electronic elements in a modern ballad style, it was released in November 2024.

In step with the drama’s narrative, it centers on themes of inherited memories and unwavering love, resonating with the sentiment embodied in the white azalea’s language of flowers: “fulfilled love.” It is a gentle companion for those who have lost someone dear or wish to heal the pain of heartbreak.

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW

This is a moving song created by Kenshi Yonezu as the theme for the anime Medalist, which portrays both the brilliance and setbacks of figure skating.

Like a bow dancing across the ice and an arrow aiming beyond, it depicts the passion of young people who drive forward powerfully toward their dreams.

It sings of how, when two souls—teacher and student, supporter and challenger—become one, they can break their limits and reach new heights.

Released in January 2025, it was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Medalist, capturing viewers’ hearts.

It also drew major attention for featuring Yuzuru Hanyu in its music video.

waxing; filling up; becoming full; growing (e.g., the moon growing fuller)Fuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing) / Official Video

A gem of a love song written by Fujii Kaze as the theme for the film “If April Could Come, She Would,” starring Takeru Satoh.

With delicate lyrics and an elegant piano melody, it portrays unconditional devotion to a loved one and the inner change that comes from letting go of attachment.

While it aligns with the film’s story, it also strongly reflects Fujii Kaze’s philosophical worldview, and his gentle vocals carry the message deep into the heart.

Released in March 2024, this work stands as one of Fujii Kaze’s signature songs amid his energetic activities at home and abroad.

It’s sure to resonate with those who wish to keep thinking of someone they love forever, as well as those striving to overcome a farewell with someone dear.

Hide-and-seekYuuri

Yuuri “Kakurenbo” Official Music Video

A poignant ballad that likens a breakup with a live-in lover to the children’s game of hide-and-seek.

Through images of a tumbler left behind and a messy room, it vividly portrays a man’s heart steeped in emptiness and loneliness.

Yuuri’s delicate vocals, paired with a simple, guitar-centered arrangement, superbly convey the pain of heartbreak.

Released in December 2019, the recording was supervised by Hiro of MY FIRST STORY.

The music video, directed by Elizabeth Miyaji and featuring actress Yuu Kinoyama, further deepens the work’s world.

It is a gem of a love song that closely resonates with those who have just experienced a breakup or who still harbor longing for someone dear.

If I had been living aloneSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER "If I Had Lived Alone" MV

Released in June 2020 and known as the theme song for the film “The Footprints of Water” (Mizukami no Flight), this SUPER BEAVER track is a heartwarming song that gently conveys the importance of human connection.

Its lyrics, which depict the joys and frustrations that come from our ties with others, and above all, the encounters with those who become most precious to us, resonate deeply with many listeners.

Marking the band’s notable return to Sony Music Records, the song reached No.

6 on the Oricon Weekly Charts.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you wish to stand by someone you care about, or when you want to cheer on a loved one standing at a crossroads in life.

Family SongHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Family Song (Official Video)

Set to a heartwarming melody, this masterpiece gently sings about the small joys of everyday life and the connections between people.

Gen Hoshino delicately depicts scenes like morning light and windowsills, as if capturing familiar moments within a family.

Its message—embracing bonds that go beyond blood ties and accepting the diversifying forms of family with warmth—resonates deep within.

Released in August 2017, the song was used as the theme for the Nippon TV drama “Overprotected Kahoko” and reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Its distinctive sound, which skillfully incorporates elements of late-1960s to early-1970s soul music, is another draw.

It’s a gem that stays close to the feeling of wishing happiness for someone important to you, so why not listen to it in a quiet moment alone? Its gentle sound may even move you to tears.

Always togetherMoena

Moe-na “Always Together” (Official Music Video)

A ballad marked by a tender, embracing singing voice and a heartwarming melodic line.

Feelings for someone special and the small joys found in everyday life are woven into the carefully crafted lyrics.

The arrangement by MANABOON and Sonomi Tameoka unfolds from a gentle piano melody into a grand orchestral sound, creating a moving sonic world.

Moena will release this debut song in February 2025, showcasing exquisitely nuanced emotion with her clear, translucent voice.

This piece sings of the preciousness of time spent with loved ones and is perfect for couples to sing at karaoke.

Its calm atmosphere and resonant lyrics can also inspire couples to share their feelings with each other.