[Unrequited Love Songs] Lyrics that hit home! A collection of unforgettable, gem-like love songs

KissHugaiko

aiko- 『KissHug』music video

Aiko is an artist beloved by many women for her cute, approachable voice and unique sensibility that captures delicate female emotions.

This major hit ballad expresses an unattainable love for someone dearly cherished, and its lyrics have resonated with a wide range of listeners.

Moon CryingKōda Kumi

Koda Kumi / “Moon Crying” (from the new album “WINTER of LOVE”)

A hugely popular unrequited-love song by Kumi Koda, an artist who continues to lead Japan’s music scene with universally acclaimed expressiveness and breathtaking live performances.

This ballad’s lyrics, which convey feelings for a lover one can never meet again, have resonated with many.

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

With their realistic psychological portrayals, back number captures the hearts of many fans.

Their eighth single, released in June 2013, truly feels like “a song packed full of one-sided-love imaginings.” You can’t help but nod along at the poignant sense of distance—being nothing more than “a friend of a friend” to the person you like—and at the way you get depressed by imagining the kind of partner they’d want and deciding you don’t measure up.

In contrast to those lyrics, the brisk, refreshing sound gently propels that frustrating, unrequited longing forward.

The track is also included on the album “Love Story,” and it was used in a commercial in 2019.

Wishing to be loved yet unable to take that final step—this is a one-sided love song that will surely resonate and stay close to your heart.

Be my girlfriend.Snow Man

Snow Man “Be My Girlfriend.” Lip Sync Video YouTube Ver.

This song portrays a poignant love story between a man and a woman who are not quite lovers yet.

Scenes like the two snuggling on a late-night sofa, melting ice, and their eyes meeting are sprinkled throughout, filling it with heart-fluttering moments.

Snow Man’s sweet vocals and sound gently wrap the feelings of being in love.

The track was included as a B-side to the single “Secret Touch,” released in December 2021, and served as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “My Love Mix-Up!” As the second installment in the “Kimikare Trilogy,” continuing from the previous song “Kimi no Kareshi ni Naritai.,” it has been highly praised by fans.

It’s a recommended song for anyone who’s excited by a one-sided crush or wants to liven up a karaoke session.

the depths of the heartrokudenashi

Rokudenashi “In the Depths of the Heart” / Rokudenashi – Deep Down [Official Music Video]

A bittersweet love ballad by Rokudenashi that resonates deeply.

It weaves delicate words about the loneliness that comes at dusk and the urgent feelings hidden behind a smile.

While yearning to be loved, the wavering heart that hesitates to face its true feelings seeps in along with gentle piano melodies.

Released in February 2025 as the lead track from the album “Sigh,” this song reaches out to those who, even while carrying wounded, unsettled hearts, try to look ahead with cherished memories held close.

waiting in vainrokudenashi

Rokudenashi “Left Waiting” / Rokudenashi – Stood Me Up [Official Music Video]

This is a work by Rokudenashi, who began activities in 2021, delicately depicting the emotions of unrequited love.

The subtle shifts of a heart that can’t quite face the other person’s kindness, and the loneliness of being able only to watch them talk with someone else, leave a strong impression.

The vocals woven by Ninjin carry a warmth that feels like it gently heats the heart on a quiet winter night.

Written and composed by Hifumi, the song was released as a single in October 2021.

It’s a track that stands beside those troubled by love, offering empathy and comfort.

For anyone who holds a painful feeling they can’t confess to anyone—their love for someone dear—this song is meant for you.

Stand by UTōhōshinki

TVXQ / Stand by U

A hugely popular unrequited-love song by TVXQ that has garnered widespread empathy, woven with a poignant melody and a transparent, high-toned voice that resonates endlessly.

The lyrics, which capture the feeling of being unable to forget a former lover after a breakup, are supported by many listeners.