[Old Love Songs] Love songs that recall a love that has ended
There are loves that are still ongoing, and loves that have ended but can’t be forgotten.
In this article, we’re introducing “songs of past love.”
They’re songs that make you remember and feel nostalgic about old romances—sometimes even bring you to tears with a passion that hasn’t cooled.
We’ve gathered a variety, from bright, breezy tracks that feel completely refreshed to bittersweet love songs where the wounds still don’t seem to heal.
If you’re looking for love songs that bring back memories of past relationships, be sure to give these a listen.
Take your time and lose yourself, alone, in the memories of a nostalgic love.
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- [Remembering the Pain of Love…] Breakup Songs Recommended for People in Their 60s
- From bittersweet tracks to heart-wrenching tunes! Heisei-era unrequited love songs
- Recommended heartbreak songs for women in their 70s. A collection of classic Showa-era breakup masterpieces.
[Old Love Songs] Love Songs That Recall Past Relationships (41–50)
I want to forget.wacci
This is a song by wacci that poignantly captures the lingering presence of an ex-lover etched into the heart.
While wishing to “forget,” the protagonist is tormented by memories that resurface in unguarded moments, depicted through delicate lyrics.
Released in July 2024, this track is the third installment in wacci’s 2024 love song series.
Actress Aju Makita appears in the music video, enriching the song’s world even further.
It’s a piece that comforts those enduring the pain of heartbreak or holding on to past love.
It might be nice to listen alone on a quiet night and take a moment to face your own feelings.
Love songSambomasutā
This song is written from the perspective of a man who can’t get over his ex.
The powerful vocals and deeply emotional performance are truly moving and may bring you to tears.
If you’re still struggling with a broken heart, please give this song a listen—you’ll surely relate.
NAOHY
It’s a gently comforting, heart-stirring song about the pain of unrequited love.
It sings of the bittersweet feeling when the person you care for falls for someone else.
Released in April 2006, this track moved many people.
The phrase “ano ko” (“that girl”) in the lyrics really hits listeners right in the heart.
It beautifully conveys the sorrow of not being able to become someone special to the other person.
It’s a perfect song for those carrying the pain of heartbreak or struggling with a love they can’t forget.
My dearest personMatsuri, Takumi
A beautiful collaborative piece by Matsuri and Takumi that sings of poignant scenes and an unattainable love.
Accompanied by skillful piano melodies, it’s a pure love story-song that wistfully asks, “If only I could go back to the past,” and longs for a love that has been lost.
That day you met, the kindness you shared, the tears you shed—precious memories are depicted in a way that tightens the chest and sinks deeply into the listener’s heart.
Released in November 2023, this work offers solace to those whose relationship with someone they loved has ended and who still can’t make sense of their feelings.
It’s a song you’ll want to keep close for quiet nights alone, when you’re ready to face the pain of love.
Time goes byEvery Little Thing
This is a song by Every Little Thing that captures the bittersweet emotions after a heartbreak.
It reflects on a past relationship, expressing self-reflection while conveying that feelings for the other person still remain.
The relatable imagery resonates deeply.
Used as the theme song for the drama “Amai Kekkon” (“Sweet Marriage”), it touched many hearts.
Released in February 1998, it reached No.
2 on the Oricon chart.
It has since been included on best-of albums and anniversary live recordings, and continues to be loved over time.
It’s a recommended track for when you want to heal the pain of a breakup or look back on memories with someone special.
Ref:rainAimer
It’s a deeply moving song that makes you think of someone precious who’s no longer here.
Even with a hint of regret, it conveys an unwavering longing—a love and a cherished person you still can’t forget.
Those feelings come through so strongly it brings me to tears.
The past can’t be changed, but you’re free to think of the other person.
If you can’t forget them, it’s okay to keep on loving them, isn’t it?
What is emotion?This is LAST
The song “#Jō to wa,” which poignantly and beautifully depicts the pain of heartbreak after someone you love leaves, was created by the three-piece rock band This is LAST.
It was also used as an insert song in the romance reality show “Hanataba to Ōkami-chan ni wa Damasarenai,” resonating with many viewers.
While feeling pathetic for being unable to let go of the past, the lyrics don’t express hatred toward the ex-partner; instead, they portray an enduring affection that continues even now.
It’s a track that gently embraces those carrying the weight of a painful love.
