From bittersweet tracks to heart-wrenching tunes! Heisei-era unrequited love songs
Even when we say “unrequited love songs” in a single phrase, there are so many different situations, aren’t there?
From sweet and bittersweet tracks that evoke school days to heartrending songs that conjure images of adult romance, there are countless unrequited love songs in the world.
In every era, songs that stay close to our experiences of love have resonated with listeners.
So this time, we’re introducing unrequited love songs that were hits in the Heisei era!
Whether you’re in love right now or hoping to fall in love soon, be sure to find the tracks that suit you!
From bittersweet tracks to heart-wrenching tunes! Heisei-era unrequited love songs (1–10)
You don’t listen to rock.aimyon
A third major single by Aimyon, whose lyrics brim with unique scenic imagery and wordplay, and whose songs—tinged with a certain nostalgia—captivate a wide range of listeners.
Since its release in August 2017, it has remained highly popular among fans, and in 2019 it surpassed 100 million streams, making it one of Aimyon’s signature tracks.
The unrequited-love story carried by a brisk acoustic guitar will likely make many people reminisce about their youth.
It’s a song for anyone feeling that frustrating longing when the desire to share what you love with the person you care about just doesn’t get through.
if…DA PUMP
A song worthy of being called an iconic hit of the Heisei era, this is DA PUMP’s 12th single.
Distinct from the group’s signature dance music, it stands out with its lyrical melody and suave rap.
Released in September 2000, it peaked at No.
11 on the Oricon charts and was also featured in a Sharp commercial.
The lyrics depict a bittersweet love, expressing feelings for the other person through repeated “what if” scenarios.
It’s a perfect track for anyone wanting to reminisce about the sweet-and-sour romances of their school days or for those harboring unrequited feelings.
Can You Keep A Secret?Utada Hikaru
A song that passionately expresses sweet, bittersweet feelings of love—Utada Hikaru’s seventh single.
Released in February 2001 as the theme song for the drama “HERO,” it was also included on the album “Distance.” The lyrics, which portray the desire to become closer to the other person’s ideal while struggling to hide one’s true self, resonated with many listeners.
It also made headlines for becoming the first million-selling single released in the 21st century.
It’s a quintessential Heisei-era unrequited love song that offers solace to everyone troubled by love.
Beyond a thousand nightsAqua Timez
Known as one of the defining unrequited love songs of the Heisei era, this piece conveys the protagonist’s feelings as they try to overcome their heartbreak, expressed through memorable melodies and lyrics.
Released in November 2006 as Aqua Timez’s second single, it was used as the theme song for the Toho-distributed animated film BLEACH: Memories of Nobody.
The lyrics, centered on the importance of honestly conveying one’s feelings to a loved one, resonated with many struggling in love and have remained beloved for years.
It’s also a popular karaoke choice, recommended for those seeking to heal the pain of a broken heart or to find the courage to express their feelings.
The decisive battle is on Friday.DREAMS COME TRUE
This is the 11th single by DREAMS COME TRUE, a song that boasts enduring popularity across a wide audience thanks to its overwhelming vocal power and striking impact.
Chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s program “Ureshi Tanoshi Daisuki,” it captured the hearts of even more listeners.
The lyrics, which express the rising excitement towards Friday and the anticipation of spending time with someone special, likely resonated with many people.
Its comfortable mid-tempo rhythm and funky sound reminiscent of Earth, Wind & Fire are guaranteed to liven up any karaoke session.
Released in September 1992, this work became DREAMS COME TRUE’s first million-seller and continues to be loved by many to this day.
Love SongGO!GO!7188
Despite their short period of activity from 2000 to 2012, GO!GO!7188, a three-piece band that gained popularity for their distinctive musicality, released this as their third single.
It’s a track whose simple yet nostalgic sound resonates, featuring an impressive arrangement that begins with a chorus accompanied only by vocals and guitar.
The lyrics—conveying the bittersweet feeling of love that persists even if the person you like doesn’t look only at you—really come through.
Chosen as the AX POWER PLAY #005 theme song for the music program “AX MUSIC-FACTORY,” this song is a great pick for women’s karaoke, and among people of the same generation, the chorus is one you can sing together.
flowerL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
A signature song by L’Arc〜en〜Ciel that beautifully portrays the ache of unrequited love.
Hyde’s crystal-clear vocals superbly capture a heart swaying between dreams and reality.
Released in October 1996, the track was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “Professional Baseball News.” It’s recommended not only for those suffering from unattainable love but also for anyone feeling nostalgic for their youth.
Listen to it in the afternoon sunlight, and those bittersweet memories from back then may come rushing back.