[Unrequited Love] Heart-wrenching Love Songs | A Roundup of Tear-Inducing Crush and Breakup Tracks

Happy Endingback number

back number – Happy End (full)

This is a poignant song by back number that portrays a woman putting on a brave face at the moment of parting.

On the surface she tries to send him off with a smile, yet she cannot let go of her feelings for him, and the delicate depiction of her inner turmoil is deeply moving.

Written as the theme song for the film “My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday,” released in December 2016, it also drew attention for its music video featuring actress Erika Karata, and was later included on the album “Encore.” If you find yourself in a situation where you have no choice but to give up while still harboring feelings for someone you love, you may see yourself in this song.

It’s a soul-stirring track that will make you want to listen to it again and again through tears.

wrapTENSONG

TENSONG “Matoi (Wrapped In)” [Official Music Video]

“Even though I know it won’t be reciprocated…” A TENSONG track distinguished by its uniquely arranged, highly original sound and Takabō’s striking high-tone vocals.

The lyrics, which capture lingering attachment and love for someone you can’t forget after a breakup, resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a powerful song that emphasizes the importance of being honest about your feelings when you’re in love and promotes understanding of gender diversity.

Released in July 2021, it gained traction on social media and became popular, reaching No.

2 on LINE MUSIC.

A masterpiece especially recommended for those in their late teens to twenties who are struggling with romance.

AloneMayo Okamoto

Mayo Okamoto — alone

A gently woven ballad that carries hidden feelings along with a piano melody.

Released by Mayo Okamoto in November 1996, this song portrays the heartrending emotions of a woman whose boyfriend is taken by her close friend.

Though she puts on a brave face and smiles for those around her, she continues to carry loneliness in her heart.

The pain she feels upon glimpsing the couple by chance on a station platform, and her yearning not for sympathy but for true love, are expressed with delicate nuance.

This piece is a long-cherished ballad she had nurtured since before her debut.

It’s a song that quietly stays by the side of anyone trying to look forward while bearing the pain of heartbreak.

passing by each otherSoala

Soala – Passing Each Other [Official Music Video]

Soala’s music is characterized by a poignant voice and lyrics that resonate deeply.

It delicately portrays the emotional disconnects in romance and the pain and regret caused by self-centered actions.

The songs depict the ironic situation where deep affection for a partner ends up worsening the relationship, as well as the powerlessness of being unable to accept a breakup—themes that many listeners relate to.

Released in July 2023, this track was written and composed by Soala herself.

If you’ve experienced heartbreak or unrequited love, listening to this piece may help you sort out your feelings and heal your heart.

heavy smokenishina

Nishina – Heavy Smoke [Official Video]

Nishina’s songs captivate listeners with a tender, fragile voice and addictive melodies.

The lyrics, filled with bittersweet affection for “you,” who smokes, have resonated with many.

Released digitally in March 2021, this is a passionately crafted track written and composed by Nishina herself.

The lyrics are striking for how they express loneliness and shifting emotions amid smoke filling a square room.

Because the unrequited love interest is a heavy smoker, the song deftly portrays the feelings conveyed through cigarettes and the accompanying heartache.

It’s a perfect recommendation for those who’ve fallen in love and can’t keep their emotions in check.

tear(s)Marushii

Marcy – Tears (Official Music Video)

A love ballad that portrays the ache of heartbreak in stark contrast to the dazzling summer sun.

It’s a work released in August 2025 by the rock band Marcy, known for down-to-earth lyrics that resonate.

Memories of love told in the past tense and words detailing feelings that will never reach their destination shake the listener’s heart.

Skillful metaphors—like the pain of memories lingering as sensations in the body and a future that was never opened—reflect the protagonist’s earnest emotions and are sure to bring tears.

The song is slated to be included on their third original album, set for release in November 2025, which will also feature Aozora, the theme song for the film “Youth Gestalt Collapse.” It’s a track you’ll want to listen to quietly on nights when you want to immerse yourself in unforgettable memories of love.

HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number

back number - “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” Music Video (Theme song for the TBS Tuesday drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love”)

Heart-wrenching—simply heart-wrenching.

Written as the theme song for the drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love,” “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” is a quintessential back number ballad brimming with bittersweet emotion.

Sighing over an unrequited love, the singer whispers “Happy birthday” to themselves as they spend their birthday alone.

The unbearably poignant lyrics tighten your chest.

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