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

Like the beginningRen

[PLANJ] ORIGINAL: 'Like the Beginning' – REN

This is a solo ballad written by REN of the global boy group JO1.

Set for release in July 2025, it’s his fourth solo track.

With a delicate vocal delivery, it captures the unease toward kindness that’s become routine and the premonition of a relationship’s end.

You can clearly feel the protagonist’s poignant resolve in lines like, “This way will be better for both of us.” It’s a song that will sink deep into your heart when you’re struggling with a cherished relationship or quietly reflecting on a breakup at night.

Ikebukuro SunshineWHITE JAM

Ikebukuro Sunshine

This is a July 2025 release from WHITE JAM, a mixed-gender vocal unit known for their realistic, heartrending lyrics that resonate with many.

Set in the iconic urban locale of Ikebukuro Sunshine, it paints the protagonist’s delicate, wavering emotions amid the flow of passersby, carried by their signature R&B sound.

Even as they resolve to part with their lover, they still wait for them…

The painful scene comes into focus, and it really tightens your chest.

It especially hits on nights when you want to sink into sentimentality or when you feel like revisiting past loves.

Only a single voicerokudenashi

Rokudenashi “Just One Voice” / Rokudenashi – One Voice [Official Music Video]

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.

If there’s a “see you”Mirei Touyama

Mirei Touyama “If There Were Another Goodbye” Lyric Video

This is a bittersweet breakup song that gently wraps feelings of regret and gratitude toward a loved one in a clear, translucent voice.

Released by Mirei Toyama in August 2021, it portrays the struggle with the pain of parting while trying to find gratitude for a “once-in-a-lifetime happiness.” The hesitation over when to bring up the breakup, and the strength to be the one to finally say “thank you,” are also compelling.

As a track from the album “still,” this cover of a original song by Sorari Sawada offers quiet solace to those who must end a relationship or are suffering through a love they need to let go of.

Yorunagi feat. nishinaindigo la End

indigo la End – Night Calm feat. nishina

It’s a piece whose delicate melody, as if capturing a quiet winter night, resonates in the heart.

While preserving indigo la End’s unchanging kindness and warmth, the collaboration with nishina adds a new allure.

Set to be included on the album “MOLTING AND DANCING,” scheduled for release on January 29, 2025, this track envelops you in a gentle atmosphere that soothes the fatigue of everyday life.

The guitar’s transparent tone and the vocals woven over a relaxed rhythm leave a pure, beautiful impression like a winter night sky.

It’s a song that stays close to you when you want to slowly calm your mind at the end of a busy day or quietly face yourself in a tranquil moment.

Only I liked it.suisou gurashi

Suysougurashi 'I Was the Only One Who Loved It.' Official Music Video

A heartbreak song by suisougurasu that delicately portrays the ache and lingering attachment of love.

Eye’s clear, translucent vocals beautifully capture the painful feeling of being left behind while the other person moves on to their next romance.

Many listeners will relate to the lyrics, which depict how a casual message from the person you like can throw your heart into turmoil.

Released in September 2021, this song is sure to resonate with anyone who can’t forget someone they love or is suffering from a love they can’t let go of.

Say goodbye to the love I clung to.matsuri

Say goodbye to clinging love. / Matsuri (Good bye, toxic love) [Official Music Video]

This is a song by Matsuri that delicately portrays the feelings of a woman breaking free from a past dependence on love and trying to take a new step forward.

Released digitally in June 2022, it features striking lyrics about the struggle between telling herself she’s forgotten her former partner and the bittersweet memories that occasionally resurface.

The track gained popularity on TikTok and resonated with younger listeners, and a music video starring Yuu Miyazaki was also produced.

It’s a warm breakup song that offers comfort to those trying to face forward despite heartache and to those who still feel lingering attachment to past love.