Breakup songs by female artists recommended for the yutori generation
There are countless masterpieces of breakup songs throughout the history of the J-pop scene.
From raw, realistic songs that make you empathize just by listening, to poetic and beautiful ones that spark the imagination, each one has a story that’s sure to move your heart.
So this time, we’ve put together a list of songs by female artists—breakup tracks especially recommended for the yutori generation.
They’re great picks for karaoke, too, so be sure to check them out!
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- Recommended breakup songs for women in their 50s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
- Nostalgic Showa-era heartbreak songs. Soothe your heart with timeless classics that can move women in their 60s to tears.
- Just listening makes my chest tighten... Breakup songs recommended for the Yutori generation
Breakup songs by female artists recommended for the Yutori generation (1–10)
inside youmilet
This major-label debut by singer-songwriter milet, who has garnered broad support for her dark, emotional songs infused with elements of electronica and rock.
The track was selected as the opening theme for Fuji TV’s drama “Scandal-Specialist Lawyers QUEEN” and also drew attention for being produced by Toru of ONE OK ROCK.
Its lyrics, portraying the pain of parting and lingering feelings for a former lover, will likely resonate with the emotions many experience after a breakup.
With milet’s husky, weighty vocals that sink into the heart, this love song offers solace in the hardship of heartbreak.
The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell
This number beautifully portrays the bittersweet feelings of youthful love.
The lyrics, woven to overlap with the summer night sky, delicately express the emotions of someone holding an unrequited love.
Released in August 2009 as the ending theme for the TV anime Bakemonogatari, the song reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and remained in the top 20 for over two months, becoming a long-running hit.
Those from the so-called “yutori” generation will likely find much to relate to, recalling memories from their school days.
It’s also great for karaoke.
A heartbreaking breakup song that you’ll want to listen to on a summer night, one that truly resonates with the heart.
tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa
Koresawa’s songs are distinctive, yet their lyrics depict breakup scenes so vividly that you can almost see the scenery.
They resonate with many listeners, regardless of gender.
In this work, the slow performance led by acoustic guitar arpeggios and piano matches her gentle yet unmistakable voice, and the structure draws you into a bittersweet world with remarkable finesse.
Released digitally in March 2017 as her final indie work, this piece became an important track that paved the way for her subsequent major-label debut.
It’s a heartfelt song that supports those who have experienced heartbreak or are trying to overcome a farewell with someone dear.
Breakup songs by female artists recommended for the Yutori generation (11–20)
Love StoryAmuro Namie
This song, which portrays complex emotions, beautifully expresses both the pain of heartbreak and the hope that follows.
Released in December 2011 as the theme song for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.
drama, it became a major hit.
The music video filmed in London is also striking.
Namie Amuro’s powerful yet delicate vocals perfectly enhance the lyrics that evoke the end of a romance and the start of something new.
Its approachable melody makes it easy to try at karaoke, so it’s recommended for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or are standing at a crossroads in life.
The heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody are sure to soothe your soul.
You and the slopesSHISHAMO
A song set on a winter ski slope that portrays the bittersweet feelings of a woman in love.
With its brisk 8-beat rhythm and poppy melody, it delivers SHISHAMO’s signature sound—cute yet powerful.
Released in December 2015, this track is a winter pop song brimming with seasonal atmosphere.
The lyrics capture both the joy of spending a long-awaited special day and the frustration of feelings that can’t be put into words—something many women are likely to relate to.
It’s a perfect blend of the poignancy of romance and the invigorating feel of winter, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for karaoke.
Night of Osmanthuskinoko teikoku
A song included on Kinoko Teikoku’s album Time Lapse, released in September 2018.
Centered on the motif of the autumn scent of fragrant olive, its lyrics evocatively portray the poignant feelings and scenes of reflecting on a past love.
The shoegaze-influenced sound pairs exquisitely with Chiaki Sato’s delicate vocals.
It’s a gem of a breakup song with a nostalgic atmosphere—perfect for when you want to empathize with a woman trying to overcome the pain of heartbreak.
Song of LoveKōda Kumi
A ballad that became one of Kumi Koda’s signature songs, distinguished by its heartrending melody and vividly realistic lyrics that paint clear scenes.
Released in September 2007 as her 37th single, it was also used in a commercial for the music streaming service music.jp.
With straightforward lyrics about heartbreak, the song resonated with many, prompting listeners to overlay it with their own experiences and feel their chests tighten.
Reportedly conceived during a hot spring trip with friends, it’s a rare track composed solely of Kumi Koda’s vocals.
It’s the perfect number to sing with feeling at karaoke right after a breakup—ideal for sorting out your emotions.