When you think of tear-jerking songs, what kind of tracks come to mind?
From heart-wrenching breakup songs to ones about losing someone forever, J-pop is full of songs with many different stories.
Even beyond those themes, there are also songs that overlap with your own experiences and bring you to tears.
This time, we’ve put together a list of emotional songs by female artists that we recommend for the yutori generation.
Of course, these are all masterpieces that will resonate with people of any generation, not just those from the yutori generation, so be sure to check them out!
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Tears for a heartrending story... Songs that make women cry, recommended for the Yutori generation (1–10)
He was alive, wasn’t he?aimyon
Aimyong’s major-label debut track carries a message that pierces the heart.
While dealing with a heavy theme, it questions the preciousness of life and the difficulty of living.
Released in November 2016, it was also chosen as the opening theme for the TV drama “Is Kichijoji the Only Place You Want to Live?”.
Its powerful melody within a relaxed tempo and lyrics that resonate with listeners are striking.
It’s easy to pick for karaoke, and it’s a song you’ll want to immerse yourself in as you sing its lyrical world.
This moving, absorbing number is especially recommended for those struggling with life or who have experienced the loss of someone dear.
The Toilet GodUemura Kana
This song, woven from memories with the singer’s grandmother, is a number whose distinctive warmth seeps into the heart.
Tracing the protagonist’s growth from childhood to adulthood and the lessons inherited from her grandmother, it portrays family bonds and the precious moments of life.
Kana Uemura’s gentle vocals and acoustic sound convey the story even more vividly.
Released in November 2010, the song was also featured in Kao’s “Toilet Quickle” commercial, winning the hearts of many.
It’s a heartwarming track to listen to when you want to reflect on family memories or reaffirm your gratitude to someone special.
When cherry-blossom hues danceNakajima Mika
A song that delicately depicts the changing seasons and gently cradles a bittersweet love.
Mika Nakashima’s transparent, airy vocals beautifully capture the fleeting moment of falling cherry blossoms.
Released in February 2005, this work has been covered by various artists and has resonated with many hearts.
When you look back on memories that pass with the arrival of spring, this song is sure to soothe you.
A heartfelt ballad recommended for moments when you want to feel the poignancy and transience of love.
Let me bloom flowers to adorn you.GARNET CROW
A poignant yet powerful number from GARNET CROW.
This song was used as the ending theme for the anime Monkey Turn and is included on a single released in June 2004.
The resolve to live strongly for the one you love is beautifully conveyed through Yuri Nakamura’s clear vocals and the emotional melody.
Its forward-looking message about overcoming hardships and building the future is likely to give you courage when you feel close to breaking.
Beloved by fans and featured on various best-of albums, this track encapsulates the appeal of GARNET CROW.
Give me a gentle kiss.DREAMS COME TRUE
DREAMS COME TRUE is a duo that has remained at the forefront of the J-POP scene for many years, crafting pop songs infused with diverse musical elements like soul, jazz, and R&B.
Their 31st single, released in February 2004, was written as the theme song for the TBS drama “Suna no Utsuwa” (The Castle of Sand).
The lyrics, expressing deep love for someone precious, focus on wholeheartedly cherishing the present moment and feeling happiness.
The warm arrangement centered on strings and piano is striking, enhancing the drama’s sentimental mood.
It’s a moving song you’ll want to listen to when you wish to reflect on your relationship with someone important.
366 daysHY
A song by HY, a mixture band based in Okinawa.
It’s a ballad included on the album “HeartY,” featuring heartrending lyrics penned from keyboard-vocalist Izumi Nakasone’s real-life experiences, which have especially resonated with women.
Chosen as the theme song for the 2008 film “Threads of Destiny,” its vividly evocative lyrics prompt many listeners to overlay their own stories.
Sung from a woman’s perspective about a breakup, it’s a track you’ll want to play when you need a good cry.
SAKURAikimonogakari
Set against the backdrop of spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, this song portrays partings and new beginnings.
It features gently resonant acoustic guitar and strings, with a wistful yet beautiful melody that leaves a strong impression.
Released in March 2006, it was also used as the CM song for NTT East Japan’s “DENPO115” in the East Japan area.
This piece is one you’ll want to listen to during graduation and farewell season, and it’s especially beloved by students.
In 2021, it was also selected as the CM song for McDonald’s “Teritama Burger,” making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with many people across generations.