RAG MusicUnrequited Love Songs
A lovely unrequited love song

From bittersweet tracks to heart-wrenching tunes! Heisei-era unrequited love songs

From bittersweet tracks to heart-wrenching tunes! Heisei-era unrequited love songs
Last updated:

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)

Things I like about youNEW!Hirai Ken

Ken Hirai “The Things I Like About You” MUSIC VIDEO
Things I like about youNEW!Hirai Ken

You want to tell the person you love how you really feel, but when the moment comes, you get shy and can’t say it… This song captures that frustrating yet endearing feeling of being in love.

It’s a single released by Ken Hirai in 2007 and was also used as the theme song for the drama “Enka no Joō.” It was later included on the album “FAKIN’ POP.” The lyrics, written in down-to-earth language, and the gently buoyant melody really sink into your heart.

The clumsy, awkward figure of someone in love is sure to make your chest tighten.

When you want to renew your gratitude for a beloved partner, or on nights when you’re thinking of an unrequited love, why not listen to this track and let it fill you with warmth?

You don’t listen to rock.aimyon

Aimyon – You Don’t Listen to Rock [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]
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.

Beyond a thousand nightsAqua Timez

Aqua Timez 'Beyond a Thousand Nights' Music Video (Theme song of the movie 'BLEACH: Memories of Nobody')
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.

if…DA PUMP

DA PUMP / if… (short ver.)
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.

The decisive battle is on Friday.DREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – The Showdown Is on Friday (from THE DREAM QUEST TOUR 2017 Live Ver.)
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.