My heart aches with bittersweet pain! Breakup songs I’d recommend to Gen Z

tragic heroineMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Tragic Heroine

Told from the perspective of a woman visiting her ex, My Hair is Bad’s song vividly portrays a heart caught between lingering attachment and the bravado of not wanting to admit weakness.

It depicts someone masking unresolved feelings with a smile, while lyrics that lay bare tangled emotions will resonate with anyone who’s experienced heartbreak.

Blending energetic band instrumentation with an impassioned vocal performance, the track was released in February 2024 and later included on the July album “ghosts.” As a song that captures the delicate nuances of the pain of a breakup and longing for an ex, it’s a perfect listen when you want to confront your own feelings.

deep redMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Deep Crimson (Official Music Video)

A signature song by My Hair is Bad packed with the pain and joy of love.

From depictions of intimate moments to the sorrow of parting, the candid lyrics pierce the heart.

The emotional rock sound pairs perfectly with vocalist Tomomi Shiiki’s husky voice.

Since its release in July 2015, it has captivated fans and never let go.

Perfect for those carrying the pain of heartbreak or struggling with complicated relationships.

Listening to this song might give you the courage to face your own feelings.

passing by each otherSoala

Soala – Passing Each Other [Official Music Video]

A heartrending love song by Soala that delicately portrays the clumsy emotions of falling in love.

It beautifully captures the fragile moment of parting born from the inability to be honest with the one you love.

Many will relate to the protagonist, who regrets their actions even as they recognize their excessive possessiveness and self-centered behavior.

Released in July 2023, the song drew attention with its airy vocals and comfortable R&B vibe, racking up 20 million streams in just six months.

The warm voice that seems to wrap around a troubled heart and the down-to-earth lyrics truly resonate.

It’s a recommended track for anyone who has ever caused distance by caring too much, or who is struggling with their relationship with a beloved partner.

Kasane AiSoala

Soala – Kasaneai [Official Music Video]

Soala’s translucent vocals gently embrace the feelings that pass each other by and the wish to reunite, delicately expressing subtle emotions.

Released in January 2025 as a track on the EP “Bluem,” the song is distinguished by its piano-centered, gentle sound and memorable melodic lines.

The music video—featuring model Ryoka Orita and actor Yusei Ito—has also garnered attention, spreading waves of empathy across social media.

It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who carries a “what if”—wondering how things might have been if you’d met in a different way.

existenceTENSONG

TENSONG 'Existence' [Official Music Video]

This is a heart-stirring song by TENSONG that vividly portrays the pain of heartbreak.

Released in December 2020, the track was created by guitarist Takuman based on his real-life experience, carefully depicting the emotions of being trapped in memories while trying to take a new step forward.

Vocalist Takabo’s high-tone voice expresses those feelings beautifully, and the deeply resonant melody line leaves a strong impression.

The music video is an animated piece created by an illustrator who was their classmate and reached 1.8 million views in eight months.

It’s a song that offers comfort to those carrying the pain of a broken heart or who’ve experienced parting with someone important; we recommend listening to it alone on a quiet night.

maybeYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Tabun” Official Music Video

A YOASOBI song that depicts a memorable morning of parting.

The protagonist’s quiet farewell is conveyed through delicate words and a heartrending melody.

Released digitally in July 2020, it was also used as the theme song for a short film of the same name.

The lyrics, which portray the complex emotions left after a breakup and the changes in a relationship, resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a recommended track for those who have experienced a springtime farewell or who wish to reflect on memories with someone dear.

Winter and Springback number

back number – Winter and Spring

Back number’s stirring melodies and delicate vocals beautifully capture the emotions of moving on from heartbreak amid the transition from winter to spring.

Produced in January 2024, the piece was helmed by Masanori Shimada, who also produced “Suiheisen,” and the music video marks Iyori Shimizu’s first attempt at directing.

The use of snow-covered asphalt on the jacket symbolically expresses both the change of seasons and the transformation of the heart.

It’s a song that resonates with the pain of heartbreak—an experience shared by all—and the journey of recovery that follows, making it a track you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.