Tear ducts guaranteed to burst! Heart-wrenching masterpiece songs I’d recommend to Gen Z
Do you ever cry in your everyday life?
In fact, it’s said that crying has a relaxing effect on humans.
Of course, we’d rather avoid tears of sadness, but in today’s so-called stress-filled society, healthy ways to release stress are essential for maintaining mental and physical balance.
So this time, we’re introducing tear-jerking songs recommended for Gen Z.
From blockbuster hits everyone knows to hidden gems, we’ve compiled a wide-ranging list—so go ahead and use it to cleanse your heart.
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Guaranteed to make you cry! Tear-jerking masterpieces recommended for Gen Z (11–20)
Live.NEWS
With messages that evoke poignant scenes and powerful vocals, NEWS’s songs have won support and empathy from younger generations.
Chosen as the theme song for a drama starring Shigeaki Kato, this piece poses a strong question about the meaning of life.
Its lyrics, which sing of the importance of holding on to hope even when facing hardship, will likely resonate deeply—especially with Gen Z, as if speaking directly to them.
It’s an inspiring anthem that gives you the courage to keep looking forward without giving up, no matter the circumstances, and it strikes a chord in the heart.
evening primroseNovelbright
This work portrays a poignant state of mind: unable to forget a once‑beloved person, the protagonist can’t help but keep chasing their lingering shadow as memories of days gone by well up.
Vocalist Yudai Takenaka’s delicate high-tone voice gently envelops the pain of a protagonist who cannot accept the breakup.
The grand sound centered on piano and strings is another highlight.
It’s a song to listen to when you want something to stay close to the pain of heartbreak, or when you can’t take a step into a new love.
DIGNITYAdo
Portrayed as a grand and beautiful ballad, this piece is a moving song that explores themes of love, freedom, and self-actualization.
Ado’s powerful yet delicate vocals brilliantly evoke the image of tiny bubbles rising toward the sunlight.
Released in September 2023, it was selected as the theme song for the film The Silent Service starring Takao Osawa, and the luxurious collaboration with B’z, who provided the track, also drew attention.
With lyrics that prompt deep reflection on the essence of love and the pursuit of happiness, it’s a perfect song for those standing at a crossroads in life or searching for their true selves.
Only a single voicerokudenashi
It’s a poignant song that empathizes with people carrying the pain of heartbreak and the struggle of living.
Released in December 2021, it delicately portrays the loneliness and inner conflict of young people today, accompanied by the gentle tones of the piano.
The emotions expressed by Rokudenashi reflect the image of people who, though hurt by everyday words, still try their best to smile.
The song resonated across borders, reaching No.
1 on Hong Kong’s Spotify Viral Chart and moving many hearts.
It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to those who can’t quite put their feelings into words or who are wrestling with worries alone.
Its tender melodies and vocals will surely stay close to your heart.
paintingŌmori Motoki
This work reveals a new side of him as a solo artist—one that stirs the heart deeply.
Released in May 2025 as part of Motoki Omori’s first solo digital single in about four years, it’s marked by quiet, mysterious soundscapes that seem to gently speak to the listener’s inner self.
The lyrics express a poignant wish: for someone to portray his existence using colors only he possesses, and to see even the parts of himself that feel wretched as something beautiful.
It’s a song whose warm melody soothes deep sorrow and loneliness, leaving a lasting impression.
Put it on during a quiet night when you want to be alone with your thoughts.
As a personSUPER BEAVER
A four-piece rock band, SUPER BEAVER, whose unadorned, piercing messages and straightforward rock sound have won strong support especially among younger listeners.
This track, included on their fifth album “27,” was chosen as the opening theme for the TV drama “Sono ‘Okodawari,’ Watashi ni mo Kure yo!!” Even while acknowledging human nature and diversity, it asks how you yourself want to live.
That message can point you toward a clear path when you’re worn out by relationships or unsure of who you are.
It’s a powerful rock number that gives you strong support when things are so hard you feel like crying.
Guaranteed to make you cry! Tear-jerking masterpieces recommended for Gen Z (21–30)
JANE DOEYonezu Kenshi, Utada Hikaru
This collaborative song, the first time two of Japan’s leading singer-songwriters have joined forces, serves as the ending theme for the theatrical anime film Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc.
Its lyrics capture a longing for someone lost and the fragility of memory.
Written and composed by Kenshi Yonezu, the track features Hikaru Utada’s clear, airy vocals that sweep through like the wind.
Set for release in September 2025, it will come out as a double A-side single, IRIS OUT / JANE DOE, in multiple CD editions, with the cover illustration newly drawn by Yonezu himself.
It’s a song that offers deep comfort to those who have experienced parting from someone dear or who are tormented by indelible memories.