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

I became someone else’s girlfriend.wacci

wacci “I Became Someone Else’s Girlfriend” Music Video

The music of wacci, a five-piece pop-rock band based in Tokyo, is generating buzz.

Their seventh digital single is a track also included on their third album, “Ultramarine Refrain.” The lyrics depict the feelings of a woman who chooses a relationship for herself rather than an unforgettable romance, poignantly conveying her resolve to move forward even as she’s confused about her new partner.

With over 50 million views on YouTube, the song resonates with many listeners.

It’s a track that gently supports those trying to look ahead while still carrying the pain of heartbreak.

Dried flowersYuuri

Yuri “Dry Flower” Official Music Video - Director’s Cut ver. -

Released in October 2020 as Yuuri’s second major-label single available exclusively via digital distribution.

It was also chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “SUPER RICH,” drawing significant attention by achieving a triple crown on streaming charts.

The lyrics portray the pain of heartbreak and complex emotions, resonating with many listeners.

They vividly express real feelings like the regret after choosing to part ways and lingering attachment to the other person.

With powerful acoustic guitar strumming and Yuuri’s poignant vocals perfectly aligned, this is a song that offers comfort to anyone who has experienced a broken heart.

I forget you, who are so quiet, in October.atarayo

Atarayo - Forgetting You, the Quiet One in October (Music Video)

A song that portrays the end of a bittersweet romance is characterized by delicate vocals and an urban sound.

Many listeners may relate to the lyrics about a relationship that couldn’t be made public and the pain of parting.

Released digitally in March 2021, the track gained traction on social media and significantly boosted the band’s recognition.

It’s a song that resonates with those who’ve experienced heartbreak or farewells, offering comfort.

Even older listeners may enjoy it with a calm heart, reminiscing about their youthful romances.

playing loversmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu 'Pretend Lovers' MV

A heartrending song that depicts the end of an unstable relationship where “I’m home” and “Goodbye” intersect.

Performed by Macaroni Empitsu, a band made up of music conservatory graduates, it was released digitally in February 2020 and was also featured in a Spotify campaign.

Though the relationship is essentially over, the two continue to act like lovers.

As the line “Just one more time” repeats, the protagonist’s exhausted heart drags the relationship along, and their pain comes through vividly.

It’s a song that makes you acknowledge the part of yourself that wants to forget but can’t—the flawed self living with that conflict.

For those who can’t break free from a lingering, regret-filled love.

MetronomeYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Metronome

A song by Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter with remarkable range.

Featured on his third album, Bremen, this track stands out for its brilliant lyrics that liken the aching feelings after a breakup to a metronome.

The gentle melody and wistful atmosphere beautifully capture the sorrow of lost love.

Released in October 2015, it’s a pivotal song that reflects the evolution of Yonezu’s musical style.

With few large interval jumps, it’s easy to sing and recommended even for those who aren’t confident at karaoke.

It’s a moving masterpiece to listen to when you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak or reflect on someone dear to you.

BAD LOVENEW!HANA

HANA / BAD LOVE -Music Video-

“I believed in you, but you betrayed me.” “It’s precisely because I loved you so much that I can’t forgive you.” There are nights when you’re shaken by such fierce emotions.

With members JISOO and MOMOKA contributing to the lyrics, this work portrays a struggle where love and hate are intertwined.

The vocals riding on the intense beats of rock and drum & bass carry a force that seems to speak for a wounded heart.

Released in September 2025, it also drew attention as a commercial tie-in song.

It’s a track we especially want those who spent a bittersweet Valentine’s Day—one that couldn’t end with only sweet memories—to hear.

Why not let all your anger and sadness out and transform them into the energy you need to look forward?

evening primroseNovelbright

Novelbright – Evening Primrose [Official Music Video]

A song by the five-piece rock band Novelbright, known for their strikingly clear high-tone vocals.

The melancholy piano tones and band sound add an even more heartrending hue to the story told in the lyrics.

The complex emotions felt after parting with someone precious are conveyed through a delicate melodic line.

Released in December 2020 as a digital-only single, the track was also selected as the Monthly Song for the weather segment on Fuji TV’s “Tokudane!” in February.

It’s an emotional piece you’ll want to listen to when you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak or reminisce about someone important.