Hidden gems among tear-jerker songs. Recommended popular tracks.

Wasted wishesAKB48

[MV full] Negai-goto no Mochigusare / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48’s “Negaigoto no Mochigusare” became a hot topic for its tear-jerking music video filmed at Hamamatsu Municipal Kagamiyama Elementary School, which closed in 2017.

The version on Minna no Uta features a cute animated PV, but that one is also quite moving, so I really hope you’ll watch it.

The Last LieBENI

Saigonouso

An emotionally moving ballad where bittersweet feelings are conveyed through a clear, translucent singing voice.

Released in January 2012, this song by BENI delicately portrays the emotions of someone accepting a breakup while wishing for just one gentle lie at the very end.

Its beautiful melody, centered on piano and strings, further highlights the lingering attachment to a loved one and the pain of parting.

The lyrics were written by BENI herself, with composition by Yoko Kuzuya.

Included on the album “Fortune,” it is cherished by many as a ballad that feels close to the heart.

Resonating with those who have experienced the pain of losing someone irreplaceable, this song helps soothe the wounds of heartbreak.

May it be filled with kindnessJUJU

JUJU 'So That It Overflows with Kindness'

This is a heartwarming ballad that gently embraces deep love and gratitude for someone precious.

Even as everyday life changes in the blink of an eye and we feel on the verge of losing sight of what truly matters, the presence of a loved one reminds us of life’s meaning and joy.

The song portrays the beauty of unconditional love and mutual support, conveyed through a voice that resonates with the heart.

Released in February 2009 as JUJU’s ninth single, it became her first to enter the Oricon Weekly Top 10 and was also featured in a collaborative commercial by MTV Japan and Nissan.

Included on the album “What’s Love?”, it has garnered wide support, including numerous cover versions by various artists.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when your feelings for someone special overflow or when you want to express your gratitude.

Let the warm vocals fill your heart with kindness.

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

Every person is someone precious to someone else, a one-of-a-kind being.

This song reminds us of that simple yet easily forgotten truth.

When hardships keep piling up, you may start to wonder whether you’re needed, what your worth is, and sink into gloom.

But there isn’t a single person in this world who isn’t needed by someone.

When you feel isolated and stuck, listening to this song will help you remember that everyone is precious—and that you are one of them.

Released in January 2019, Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s eighth single is a grand rock ballad crafted by Motoki Omori.

The True Nature of TearsSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “The True Form of Tears” MV (Theme song for NHK Night Drama ‘Vanilla na Mainichi’)

This song gently seeps into the heart, delicately portraying the inner conflicts and emotional fluctuations that people carry.

In this work from SUPER BEAVER, the tender vocals and warm melody line express the loneliness everyone experiences and the feelings we hold inside, wrapping them in kindness.

It tells us that tears are not a sign of weakness, but rather something precious that helps us understand and accept ourselves.

Released in January 2025, it was written as the theme song for the NHK General TV drama “Vanilla na Mainichi.” The song is used strikingly within the show, carrying significant meaning for the story’s protagonist.

It’s the perfect track for those who are trying to overcome painful experiences or want to face their own emotions—an ideal song for when you need a good cry.

It’s going to spill.YU-KI

YUKI “It’s going to spill over”

A moving song that captures moments when life’s many emotions overflow.

YUKI’s clear, translucent voice gently embraces the small joys and quiet pangs of everyday life.

Released in May 2024 as a double A-side single with “Hello, it’s me,” it was also featured in a commercial for the cosmetics brand FANCL.

This song expresses the importance of being honest with your feelings and the meaning of enjoying what you love without fear.

It’s perfect for relaxed moments, like taking a walk or unwinding in the bath.

Let YUKI’s vocals stay close to you, and try releasing the emotions that have been building up in your heart.

Spirit Boat (Shoro Nagashi)sadamasashi

Spirit Boat (Shoro Nagashi)

A musical prayer that gently enfolds the pain of losing a loved one in a tender, wistful melody.

The poignant story Masashi Sada weaves—set around a traditional festival in Nagasaki—delicately captures the feelings of those left behind.

Through cherished promises made in life, keepsakes crafted together, and the changing shape of family, a profound love and loneliness well up in the heart.

Released by Grape in April 1974, the song gradually spread, especially in the Chukyo region, climbing to No.

2 on the Oricon chart and selling 1.3 million copies.

It shone once again in 2003 as the theme song for an NHK drama.

A gem of a ballad that quietly stays close to anyone who has said goodbye to someone important.