Hidden gem tearjerker songs. Recommended popular tracks

Family LandscapeHanaregumi

Hanaregumi Family Landscape

Takashi Nagazumi, who once made his mark as the vocalist of the Japanese funk band SUPER BUTTER DOG.

His solo moniker is Hanaregumi.

I think he’s truly someone with the finest, most beautiful voice and an exceptional sense for songwriting.

And his “Kazoku no Fūkei” (“Family Scenery”) is a masterpiece—acoustic guitar tone, vocals, lyrics, melody—every element is simply outstanding.

This song about family evokes nostalgic images: the scent and colors of dusk, the sky, and a mother’s back.

It feels like gentle tears might naturally well up in a weary heart.

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Murakami Shinpei

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Motherkariyushi 58

Kariyushi58 “Anma”

Released in 2006 as Kariyushi58’s debut single.

It’s a song of gratitude to a mother, filled with the feelings, reflections, respect, and thanks of one’s younger days.

It received the Newcomer Award at the Japan Cable Radio Awards—an unusual achievement for an indie artist.

The Beginningayaka

So moving I could cry! Ayaka – The Beginning

It’s a song included on Ayaka’s third original album, “The beginning,” released in 2012.

It’s a piece that powerfully captures her feelings from the two years she was on hiatus, expressing the importance of living together and the emotions she felt toward her partner.

The song was also performed at the 63rd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Just You and IAmuro Namie

Just You and I (Mix) / Namie Amuro

Namie Amuro, who sadly retired in 2018, remains immensely popular even today—you still hear many of her songs on the streets and on TV.

While she’s often associated with dance tracks and love songs, “Just You and I” is a song that expresses a much greater, all-encompassing love.

Its lyrics make you feel that this was her final single—a last song given in return to her fans.

For many fans, it’s likely a particularly special number.

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utatane

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A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada – A Bouquet for You

Hikaru Utada’s song Hanataba wo Kimi ni was released in 2016 as a digital-only single.

It was also the theme song for the NHK morning drama Toto Nee-chan, and is loved by a wide range of generations.

Gentle and heartwarming, the song is said to be dedicated to Utada’s late mother.

Listening with that in mind, the lyrics make sense as a kind of funeral tribute—words sung to someone who is no longer here.

Rather than being simply sad, it’s a deeply moving song that conveys a strong desire to express gratitude to a loved one.

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utatane

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Hitorikarin

Karin “Hitori” [MV]

This song is sure to keep you company in your loneliness.

It’s a piece by Karin, a singer whose piano-and-vocal covers of famous songs often make waves, released in 2021.

The beautiful tones of piano and strings alone are enough to tug at your heartstrings, and when Karin’s fragile voice layers over them, it creates an even deeper world.

If you’re ready to make peace with the end of a relationship, why not listen to Hitori and have a good cry?

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Araki Jakkan

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Homeayaka

Ayaka / Home Music Video

“Home,” sung by Ayaka, who is popular across a wide range of generations, is included on the album “Funtale,” released in June 2023.

Do you have someone who’s always in your heart even if they’re not by your side right now—someone whose very existence gives you strength? This song conveys feelings for that person you can’t see right away but always think about, and a wish for their happiness and for them to spend each day in good health.

Rather than being filled with sadness or heartbreak, it’s a heartwarming, tear-jerking number that overflows with gentle, calm emotions.

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utatane

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