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!
- [To Those in Love] Relatable Love Songs to Listen to When You’re Crushing Hard
- Just listening makes you feel happy! Heisei-era mutual love songs
- Unrequited love songs of the Heisei era. Those nostalgic classic tunes.
- Classic and popular songs about unrequited love
- Tear-jerking unrequited love songs that will break your heart: timeless classics about unattainable love
- [Heisei Love Songs] A carefully selected collection of gem-like love songs that continue to be cherished even in the Reiwa era!
- [A Song That Makes Love Come True] Carefully selected love songs perfect for those who want to make their unrequited love come true!
- Unrequited love songs recommended for teenage girls: classic and popular Japanese hits
- [Unrequited Love Songs] Recommended for women! Classic tracks that boost your motivation for love
- [From a woman's perspective] Cute unrequited love song
- [Unrequited Love Songs] Lyrics that hit home! A collection of unforgettable, gem-like love songs
- Heisei-era heartbreak songs: A roundup of classic tracks from the ’90s to the 2010s
- Unrequited love songs from the Showa era. Those nostalgic classics.
From bittersweet tracks to heart-wrenching tunes! Heisei-era unrequited love songs (1–10)
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.
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.
SquallFukuyama Masaharu
One of Masaharu Fukuyama’s signature songs, which continues to captivate fans across Japan.
Released in 1999 as a double A-side single with “HEAVEN,” the song, true to its title that evokes a sudden passing shower, vividly portrays both the joy and the bittersweet sorrow of love.
Fukuyama’s alluring baritone voice beautifully conveys the delicate emotions of a woman falling in love.
The track has become a staple at many live shows and concerts and remains highly popular among fans.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone experiencing the joys and pains of love or harboring a tender, aching affection.
Heavy rotationAKB48
AKB48, which sparked a massive boom with the concept of “idols you can go meet,” released this as their 17th major single.
With its rock-tinged sound and pop melody, the song gained support from a wide audience.
Released in August 2010, it features Yuko Oshima as the center, with members selected through the general election.
The lyrics compare the feeling of being in love to “heavy rotation,” something anyone can relate to.
Its catchy chorus and memorable dance make it a guaranteed hit at karaoke—truly a modern, quintessential idol song.