Classic and popular songs about unrequited love

First loveNEW!Kobo Kanaeru

[MV] First Love – Kobo Kanaeru

Kobo Kanaeru is a VTuber based in Indonesia, widely known for having a multinational fanbase.

Released via stream in March 2026, this work is a track written and composed by the singer-songwriter Mosawo.

The lyrics, which straightforwardly depict the restlessness before a meetup and the exhilaration of the moment you fall in love, vividly evoke the sparkle of romantic feelings.

The warm, mid-tempo melody also lingers in your ears.

It’s a piece that gently stays close to pure emotions.

B-b-but.≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / 2nd Single c/w 'Dadada, Datte.' [MV full]

From the peppy rhythm of the intro, this song instantly sweeps you into a bittersweet world of youth.

Included as the B-side of the single “First Love Cinderella,” released in October 2024, it became a hot topic as the group’s first unit track.

Sung by Ayumi Ichihara, Mizuki Oshida, and Yuka Murayama, this love song uses onomatopoeia-like phrases to express the fluster of a love that leaves you lost for words, making your heart skip a beat every time you listen.

The down-to-earth lyrics penned by Rino Sashihara are deeply relatable, and the music video’s must-see storyline cheers on its clumsy protagonist.

This work is an anthem that gives you courage when you feel timid about love.

Why not listen to it when you want to confess your feelings to someone you like, or when you need a little push forward?

I’m in love right now.≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / “I’m in Love Now” [MV full] Vertical video

A bittersweet summer love song told from a male perspective about unrequited feelings.

It captures a rush that makes you want to take off on a bicycle, along with the frustrating distance of watching someone from afar, striking a chord with its purehearted romance.

With lyrics by Rino Sashihara, it was released in August 2025 as part of a “Summer Special Song” project.

The vertically shot school-set music video also drew attention, with its story-driven visuals vividly enhancing the song’s world.

While wishing happiness for the dazzling person they love, the singer laments the ache of not being able to be part of that story.

It’s a must-listen for anyone holding feelings they can’t convey right now, or for those who want to savor the sweet-and-sour taste of love.

Many listeners are sure to relate.

Tell me your phone number!≒JOY

≒JOY (Nearly Equal Joy) / 4th single title track “Tell Me Your Phone Number!” [MV full]

≒JOY, an idol group that captures the fluttering thrill of first love as you think about your crush.

This track, the title song of their 4th single releasing in February 2026, is a number that sings of the impulse of unrequited love.

With classic J-POP sounds that sparkle with romantic feelings and a chorus that suddenly turns up the heat of love, it’s a song even those who don’t usually listen to idol music can get hooked on thanks to its catchy melody.

Kanoa Amano serves as center—listen to the lyrics that wish to bravely close the distance with the one she likes.

In the music video released in January 2026, the dance performed under a shower of numbers leaves a strong impression.

If there’s someone you’re interested in, listening to this will give you the courage to take a step forward.

I-I don’t like you!≠ME

≠ME (Not Equal Me) / 4th Single “Su, Suki Janai!” [MV full]

A cute number that captures that sweet-and-sour feeling of love—liking someone but not being able to be honest about it.

It’s a song by ≠ME with lyrics by Rino Sashihara, released in August 2022 as their 4th single.

It’s also known as the opening theme for the TV anime “The Maid I Hired Recently Is Mysterious.” The lyrics, where the frustration of not being able to say “I like you” outright crosses with overflowing emotions, are enough to make your heart flutter just by listening.

The catchy melody and call-and-response over a fast-paced sound make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at live shows.

In its first week, it sold over 110,000 copies.

Give it a listen when you want the thrill of romantic push-and-pull or a boost of energy.

Last chance, last dance≠ME

≠ME (Not Equal Me) / 1st Album Lead Track 'Last Chance, Last Dance' [MV full]

It’s a heart-wrenching song where the brilliance of youth coexists with a touch of sadness.

Produced by Rino Sashihara for the idol group ≠ME, it was included as the lead track on their album “Springtime In You,” released in March 2024.

Nanaka Tomita serves as the center for this song.

The lyrics, written from the perspective of “me” gazing from afar at the school’s Madonna, evoke a scene of unrequited love that is beautiful yet tinged with pain.

Takahiro Furukawa’s exhilarating, classic pop sound is also striking.

You might even be moved to tears by the contrast between the bright melody and the heartrending lyrics.

The album, which includes this track, also reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

Give it a listen when you want to sink into a sentimental mood in the springtime.

Iorokudenashi

Good-for-Nothing “Io” / Rokudenashi – Io [Official Music Video]

Even knowing it will never come true, you still can’t let go—this bittersweet number likens such yearning to celestial orbits.

Sung by Rokudenashi, the track also drew attention for having NayutalieN handle everything from lyrics and composition to arrangement.

Its catchy, addictive melody melds beautifully with lyrics that tighten around the heart.

Released as a digital single in August 2025, it was also included on the album Rokka, released that December.

Following “Spica” and “Albireo,” it’s another song themed around celestial bodies that fans hold dear.

Ninjin’s fragile yet steadfast vocals gently embrace listeners who carry unrequited feelings.

It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to quietly while gazing up at the night sky.