Classic and popular songs about unrequited love

waiting in vainrokudenashi

Rokudenashi “Left Waiting” / Rokudenashi – Stood Me Up [Official Music Video]

This is a work by Rokudenashi, who began activities in 2021, delicately depicting the emotions of unrequited love.

The subtle shifts of a heart that can’t quite face the other person’s kindness, and the loneliness of being able only to watch them talk with someone else, leave a strong impression.

The vocals woven by Ninjin carry a warmth that feels like it gently heats the heart on a quiet winter night.

Written and composed by Hifumi, the song was released as a single in October 2021.

It’s a track that stands beside those troubled by love, offering empathy and comfort.

For anyone who holds a painful feeling they can’t confess to anyone—their love for someone dear—this song is meant for you.

Why not me?Misaka Saki

Saki Misaka – Isn’t It Fine If It’s Me (Full ver.)

This song delicately portrays the bittersweet feelings of unrequited love.

They were close as friends, but before he knew it, romantic feelings had begun to grow.

Those complex emotions of a boy are expressed through a clear, transparent singing voice.

Released in February 2021 as the theme song for ABEMA’s popular romance reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita” (Today, I Fell in Love), it resonated with many listeners.

It’s a perfect track for anyone struggling with their feelings for a crush.

Listening to this song might give you the courage to take a step forward.

Goodbye-byeTomioka Ai

Ai Tomioka – Goodbye Bye (Music Video)

A delicate song by Ai Tomioka that sings of a love so pure it almost hurts.

The transparent vocals capture the frustrating feeling of almost closing the distance with someone, yet never quite getting there.

Even while knowing the other person has someone special, the complicated emotions of being unable to let go resonate deeply.

Released in September 2023, it captured many hearts, reaching the Top 10 on Spotify’s Viral charts in six Asian countries.

The song is memorable for its blend of English and Japanese lyrics and its catchy melodic line.

It’s a track that comforts anyone holding onto unspoken feelings for someone they love, or struggling with a love that may never come true.

Anemone is the smile of first love.Kitatani Ruki

Ruki Chatan “Anemone Is the Smile of First Love” Official Music Video

A sweet, bittersweet unrequited-love song by Ruki Kitaya, whose gentle vocals and heartrending lyrics strike a chord.

The protagonist’s pure wish—to meet the one they love even in their dreams—is beautifully expressed through the image of an anemone flower.

Released in May 2024, the track drew attention with its music video and gained major traction on TikTok.

Recommended for those troubled by an unattainable love or anyone who wants to revel in first-love memories.

Kitaya’s delicate sensibility shines through the vocals and is sure to capture your heart.

evergreenŌhashi Chippoke

Ohashi Chippoke “Evergreen” Music Video

A song that sings of unwavering love warmly envelops the hearts of its listeners.

Its light, breezy melody and lyrics filled with deep affection blend beautifully, resonating with many people.

Included on the mini-album “you,” released in October 2021, it became a massive hit with over 100 million streams.

You can feel Ohashi Chippoke’s intention to express pure love throughout the entire track.

Brimming with tenderness toward a lover and a wish for happiness that lasts forever, this piece is perfect not only for those with unrequited feelings but also for anyone looking to deepen their bond with someone special.

Wait & See ~RiskUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada – Wait & See (Risk)

I can’t help but feel a bit of that New York vibe after all.

What’s really cool is how, just when it seems like a typical song would end near the finale, it rebuilds itself once more with a different pattern.

The lyrics feel a bit brisk and matter-of-fact, but they’re surprisingly deep.

celeryYamazaki Masayoshi

Masayoshi Yamazaki / Celery

Before I know it, it’s over while I’m caught up in the rhythm.

Even so, what really stays with me is the message that it’s only natural for our ways of thinking to differ, since the environments we’ve lived in since birth are different.

It’s a song that teaches you that love alone isn’t enough.