In the history of J-pop, countless heartbreak songs have been born.
Japanese listeners in particular tend to favor music that evokes melancholy and poignancy, so songs with heart-wrenching lyrics paired with arrangements that heighten those emotions are cherished as timeless classics across eras.
With that in mind, here we’ll introduce breakup songs sung by male artists, released roughly between 2011 and 2024—the years that likely defined Gen Z’s youth.
We’ve compiled a wide-ranging list that includes songs from a male perspective, those written from a female point of view, and even darker, more macabre takes—so don’t miss it!
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- My heart aches with bittersweet pain! Breakup songs I’d recommend to Gen Z
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- Nothing but masterpieces! Love songs by male artists recommended for Gen Z
- A heartbreak song that resonates in the chest of a man in his 60s: memories of youth woven by classic Showa-era masterpieces
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- [2026] Recommended for Men in Their 40s! A Collection of Classic Japanese Breakup Songs
- Recommended love songs for men: A collection of classic hits that sing about men's love
- Recommended for Gen Z! Classic love songs sung by female artists
- For men in their 30s: Heart-touching breakup songs—masterpieces that can move grown men to tears
Breakup songs sung by male artists that I'd recommend to Gen Z (1–10)
Cinderella BoySaucy Dog
Saucy Dog is a three-piece rock band that captivates fans with lyrics depicting real, down-to-earth stories and a slightly husky high-tone voice.
The songs on their fifth major mini-album, “Lazy Sunday,” feature lyrics written from a woman’s perspective that really tug at the heartstrings.
Even amid complicated relationships, the lyrics paint scenes where feelings can’t be resisted—if you’ve been through something similar, you may find them overlapping with your own memories.
It’s a nostalgic rock tune whose dramatic arrangement accelerates its sentimental storyline.
wishsumika
A sumika song that paints a bittersweet love against a winter backdrop.
Using snow and cold as symbols, it delicately expresses the anguish and hopes of an unfulfilled love.
Released in December 2019 as part of a double A-side single, it was also chosen as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Ossan’s Love -in the sky-.” Its pop-rock foundation is layered with warm vocals, resulting in a moving, memorable track.
It’s a number that embodies sumika’s characteristic warmth, offering comfort to those who, while burdened by the pain of heartbreak, are trying to look forward.
Blueberry Nightsmakaroni enpitsu
Macaroni Enpitsu, whose delicately crafted songs of wistfulness have won strong support especially among younger listeners, present this track from their 4th mini-album “hope,” which was also selected as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s program “Baguette” in March.
Its relaxed tempo and emotional sound underscore the pain of heartbreak and a sense of loneliness.
Written from a female perspective, the lyrics center on the helplessness of a relationship in which love is cooling and the poignancy of approaching closure, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in February 2019, this song beautifully captures the bittersweetness and ache of youth—an utterly relatable piece.
asking for the moonKANA-BOON
A song that skillfully captures the pain of unrequited love, it’s known as one of KANA-BOON’s signature works.
It was a standout track from their indie days and became a turning point that led to their breakthrough.
Released in April 2013, it was featured across various media.
The music video stars actress Yukino Kishii, whose performance also drew attention.
While rooted in rock, the track blends pop melodies with a catchy rhythm, leaving a strong impression on listeners.
It’s perfect for anyone who’s experienced heartbreak or is struggling with love.
A number you’ll want to belt out at karaoke to let all your feelings out.
I became someone else’s girlfriend.wacci
A quality pop tune by wacci that portrays a heartrending love and resonates with many listeners.
Released digitally in August 2018, the track is also included on the album “Gunjo Refrain” and has enjoyed enduring popularity.
The lyrics delicately depict the feelings of a heartbroken woman, skillfully expressing lingering attachments and inner conflict while exploring themes of a new relationship and personal change.
The music video has surpassed 50 million views on YouTube, winning over countless fans.
It’s a heartwarming number that supports those who’ve experienced an unforgettable romance and those who are about to step into a new one.
evening primroseNovelbright
A digital distribution-only single by the five-piece rock band Novelbright, selected as the Monthly Song for the weather segment on the information program “Tokudane!”.
Surpassing 100 million streams, this track is a dramatic ballad featuring an arrangement centered on piano and strings, layered with the band’s sound.
The lyrics, which depict feelings for an unforgettable lover, combined with the aching high-tone vocals, are truly heart-wrenching.
It’s an emotional love song we want you to listen to when you’ve lost someone dear.
PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism
This is a song released in May 2019 that portrays a heartrending love.
Its modern beat and Satoshi Fujihara’s crystalline vocals resonate deeply.
It drew attention as the theme song for the film “The Confidence Man JP” and has become one of the band’s signature tracks, loved by many.
It’s a piece I want everyone who has ever experienced heartbreak or unrequited love—and anyone who holds feelings for someone—to hear.
Packed with the charm of Official HIGE DANDism, it can be called a classic ballad that will go down in J-pop history.