A tear-jerking, hardcore love ballad by a man

trace (of someone/something), semblance, vestige; a lingering image or memory of how someone/something used to beNovelbright

Novelbright – Remnant [Official Music Video]

When you’re heartbroken and feeling down, I recommend trying to sing “Omokage.” It’s a song released by the rock band Novelbright.

This piano-centered ballad portrays the inability to forget an ex and the longing to see them again.

The high notes are beautifully featured, so if you’re good with higher ranges, you’ll be able to make the most of your voice.

It also seems like a great song to dedicate to a hurt friend—it’s sure to be healing.

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Be happy, okay?matsumura kanau

Be Happy. – Kanau Matsumura [Official Music Video]

Kana’u Matsumura, who has been gaining attention after posting a singing video on TikTok, is in the spotlight.

The heartbreak song he’s known for—one that listeners say moves them to tears—is “You’re Going to Be Happy.” The first half of the song reflects on memories with a former lover from a male perspective, while the latter half expresses wishes for the ex’s future happiness.

It’s a bittersweet and sorrowful piece, yet its appeal lies in the hopeful feeling woven into it.

Although it’s sung mostly in a high tone, the slow tempo should make it easy to sing.

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Can I try saying “I love you”?Matsushita Kohei

Kohei Matsushita – Is It Okay If I Say I Love You? (Music Video)

You can feel the joy of pouring feelings of love into a song through Kohei Matsushita’s clear, transparent voice.

Anyone can see their own experiences reflected in the protagonist, who musters the courage to tell their lover “I love you.” The gentle melody and acoustic guitar tones feel like a warm conversation between two people in love.

Released in November 2024, this piece was written and composed by Takahito Uchisawa of androp.

While honoring the R&B roots of Matsushita, it takes shape as a simple, heartfelt love song.

It’s a track that beautifully balances the importance of expressing your feelings to someone dear and the wish to walk into the future together.

You’re no longer here.FUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS "You’re Not Here Anymore"

This is a gem of a ballad that sings of the sweet, aching pain of heartbreak.

The farewell scene on the station platform and the memories the two shared are delicately portrayed and delivered with a melody that pierces the heart.

Among FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ works, it stands out for its rich emotional expression.

Released in October 2007, it reached No.

8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was selected as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Otona no Shikaku,” earning broad support across generations.

The song is also included on the album “FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 2,” and has been covered by Mariko Takahashi.

It’s a heartwarming track that stays by your side when you sense the end of a romance or go through a farewell with someone dear.

Heart Rainindigo la End

Indigo la End “Koiame”

A heart-stirring ballad that quietly observes a bittersweet parting in love.

Its melody delicately captures subtle emotions, while the graceful sound of acoustic guitar and electric piano resonates deep within.

Released by indigo la End in February 2016, the song was featured as the TV commercial theme for the smartphone game ‘Shoumetsu Toshi’ and is also included on their second major-label album, ‘Aiiro Music.’ Told from the perspective of a woman reflecting on the end of a relationship, the lyrics leave a strong impression as they carefully express emotional shifts through the metaphor of rain.

It’s a song that stays close to your heart when you want to quietly accept the pain of heartbreak and move forward.

I want to see you.yuzu

Aitai

In April 2009, Yuzu released a gem of a ballad imbued with a stirring melody and deep feelings for a loved one.

Created by Kitagawa as an expression of gratitude and love for his late father, the song touched many hearts as the theme for the NHK drama “Ghost Friends.” Carried by a warm piano tone and a beautiful string arrangement, it gives voice to a heartfelt wish for a beloved person who has been lost.

Their moving performance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen remains fresh in memory, and the song was also included on the album “Yuzu Iroha 1997–2017,” where it continues to be cherished.

It is a piece that gently stays close to the hearts of those who have experienced the parting of a dear one or who carry feelings they cannot fully express.

First loveHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “First Love” Music Video

A ballad by Motohiro Hata, woven with sincere feelings carried by his clear, translucent voice.

He tenderly portrays memories of a love that ended against the flow of fate, likening them to a blue apple and tangled threads.

Released in January 2013 as the ending theme for the TV anime “Space Brothers” and later included on the album “Signed POP,” this work is a characteristically minor-key song from Hata.

Coupled with Seiji Kameda’s delicate arrangement, it strikingly depicts the pain and regret of a love that reached its farewell while still immature.

Hata’s relatable vocals make it a song that recalls the bitter experiences of a first love.