Heart-Touching Unrequited Love Songs: Masterpieces That Sing of Hidden Affections

YOU… feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY)Kato Miria

Miliyah Kato “YOU… feat. Izumi Nakasone (HY)”

Speaking of collaborations between powerhouse female singers, we can’t forget this song by Miliyah Kato and Izumi Nakasone of HY.

Based on real unrequited-love stories sent in by radio listeners, the two artists co-created this gem of a ballad.

Released in September 2014 as their 30th single, it was also included on the milestone 10th-anniversary album “MUSE.” The frustration of not being able to put your feelings into words, and the emotional wavering as you move toward confessing your love, come through poignantly in the harmony between Kato’s delicate vocals and Nakasone’s warm voice.

Chosen as the theme song for a radio drama, this track just might gently give you the push you need if you’re struggling with a one-sided love.

GO FOR IT!!Nishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'GO FOR IT!! (short ver.)'

It was released in 2012 as Kana Nishino’s 18th single.

The song was used in Yamazaki Baking’s “Lunch Pack” commercial, and it’s a very cute track featuring cheerleader-style dance that feels like it’s rooting for a girl with a crush.

It’s the kind of song that makes you think, “I have to confess before someone else takes him!”

Unrequited loveGENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE

GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE / Unrequited Love

A coupling track to the debut single “BRAVE IT OUT,” released in November 2012, and also included on the classic album “GENERATIONS.” When you like someone, even the smallest reactions can weigh on your mind, right? This song beautifully captures the heart caught in a frustrating struggle—so wrapped up in the other person that you can’t take that first step.

The fresh vocals from GENERATIONS at the time of their debut also invite empathy, and their pure resonance is truly moving.

If you’re in the midst of a love you can’t confess, this track will stay close to your heart.

The words penned by their senior, EXILE ATSUSHI, gently permeate with the ache of a bittersweet love.

Dear BrideNishino Kana

Kana Nishino “Dear Bride” MV (Short Ver.)

It’s popular with a very wide range of ages, from elementary school children to men and women in their 30s.

Known for many fun unrequited-love songs, passionate love songs, and gentle ballads, Kana Nishino’s new track is a sparkling, moving wedding song.

Thinking of youKEISUKE

KEISUKE – Thinking of You (Music Video)

Set to a bittersweet yet refreshing melody, this acoustic track by KEISUKE delicately portrays the emotional swings of unrequited love.

The gentle yet powerful vocals bring to life the many feelings unique to one-sided love: quietly watching over someone while hiding your affection, the ache of being unable to confess, and the complex emotions you feel toward yourself for falling in love.

Released in November 2019, it has surpassed 5 million views on YouTube.

It’s a song that gently stays by the side of anyone caught in the midst of a tender, aching romance—overflowing with feelings yet unable to take that crucial step forward.

Feeling in loveNishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'Feelings of Love' MV Full

A love song by Kana Nishino that portrays the struggles of two people who are more than friends but not quite lovers.

The secret feelings harbored for a longtime best friend are expressed with heartrending delicacy.

Even when the mind has given up, the heart can’t help but hold onto a faint hope—an emotion anyone who’s experienced unrequited love can relate to.

Featured on the album “with LOVE,” this track was released in November 2014 and captured the hearts of many listeners.

It’s a must-listen for anyone wavering between friendship and romance.

a good personReina

Reina – A Good Person [Official Video] (Background Music for ABEMA’s “Don’t Be Fooled by Miss and Mr. Wolf”)

A heartbreaking love song by Reina that leaves an impression with its portrayal of emotions—hiding one’s vulnerability while being touched by the other’s kindness.

Set to a melody that’s both gentle and powerful, it carefully depicts the bravado that masks inner anxieties and the pure feelings toward the other person.

The song was written for ABEMA’s dating show “Don’t Be Fooled by Wolf-chan and Wolf-kun” and was released in August 2022 as her major-label second single.

It’s a must-listen for anyone struggling to express their feelings to someone they care about, or for those who feel the bittersweet ache of unrequited love.