Classic and popular songs about unrequited love

So she’s not your girlfriend, huh?Ueno Yūka

Yuhka Ueno “I’m Not Your Girlfriend, Right?” Music Video

A poignant breakup ballad by Yuuka Ueno that portrays the final moments of a couple who have decided to part and arranged to meet one last time.

Crafted by Yohei Hashiguchi of wacci, this song is included on the mini-album “Konya Atashi ga Naite mo,” released in March 2020.

With great care, it traces the feelings of a woman who holds dear memories close to her heart as she tries to accept reality, conveying both the loneliness of no longer being able to be with the one she loved and her resolve to face forward even while lingering attachments remain.

Ueno’s gentle vocals and the warm melody quietly encourage those who, while confronting the pain of farewell, are ready to take a new step forward.

Time-Limited Unrequited LoveNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Time-Limited Unrequited Love'

A gentle, coming-of-age love song that tenderly embraces the fragility of unrequited feelings.

It’s an original track by the 6th generation members, included on Nogizaka46’s 38th single “Navel Orange,” released in March 2025.

The scenes painted by Yasushi Akimoto’s spun lyrics and the sound crafted by 3grass and Yuta Asao feel like a moment from a film.

If you’re about to graduate and can’t find the courage to confess to the one you like, this song might give you the push you need.

senpainozomi

Noashi (Noa) – Senpai [Official Music Video]

An unforgettable song that delicately captures wavering feelings for an older upperclassman.

Told from the perspective of a younger student tossed about by their senior, it portrays the anguish of love.

While captivated by every little gesture—the red lipstick, swaying earrings, and pale fingertips—the narrator is painfully torn by the fear they might be nothing more than a way to pass the time.

Released in August 2023, this self-produced work was entirely handled by Noshi, from lyrics and composition to arrangement.

It’s a song that speaks for your heart—highly recommended for anyone who has fallen hard for someone much older, or who’s stuck in the haze of not knowing how the other person really feels.

DiNAYuuri

Latest Song: “DiNA” (Acoustic ver.)

This song by Yuuri vividly portrays how everyday memories with a lover become etched into the heart like genes.

Its delicate depictions resonate deeply with anyone who lives carrying both the bittersweetness and the joy of love.

Released in January 2025, the track drew attention after its performance on THE FIRST TAKE.

Singing of memories of love and the resolve to take a new step forward, this work is a must-listen for those who feel both loneliness and happiness whenever they think of someone dear.

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.