Masterpieces with the theme of “tears.” A roundup of moving tracks that tug at the heartstrings.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

Released in 2004, this classic moved people across Japan to tears as NHK’s official theme song for the Athens Olympics.

It speaks to the hidden tears and the journey that was anything but smooth, urging us to keep believing in the light that awaits if we continue moving forward.

There’s a warmth that gently whispers to everyone who has endured unseen struggles and put in relentless effort: “The road you’ve taken hasn’t been in vain.” Forever etched in memory alongside the men’s gymnastics team winning gold, this song is an anthem that quietly pushes all challengers onward.

It’s a deeply moving number that I hope anyone devoted to a pursuit or standing at a turning point in life will listen to.

Tears aren’t just for show.Nakamori Akina

Kazari Ja Nai Noyo Namida Wa (Single Version) [2023 Lacquer Master Sound]

Released in November 1984 as Akina Nakamori’s 10th single, this song was written and composed by Yosui Inoue.

It was originally intended for the album “BITTER AND SWEET,” but there’s a well-known anecdote that Inoue’s studio guide vocal was so stunning that they decided on the spot to release it as a single.

When lyrics that assert tears are not superficial but an inner truth are sung in Nakamori’s dignified voice, the process of a wounded heart regaining its self-respect comes vividly into view.

It’s a classic that delivers a powerful push to those trying to look forward even as they carry the pain of heartbreak.

Cry BabySEAMO

SEAMO 『Cry Baby』

On the journey toward your dreams, the path is sometimes blurred by tears.

Released by SEAMO in April 2007, this song was created as the theme for the feature film Crayon Shin-chan: The Storm Called The Singing Buttocks Bomb!.

Wrapped in the warm resonance of piano and strings, it portrays someone who acknowledges their failures and loneliness yet still chooses to move forward toward tomorrow.

Rather than denying tears, it delivers a message that warmly affirms, “It’s okay to be a crybaby,” and it truly hits home.

When you face setbacks or sorrow, this piece will gently give you a push from behind.

Give it a listen when you want to cry your heart out and take another step forward.

Kokoro-eroodo obu mejyaa

Kokoro-e

Born from a documentary project on the audition variety show “Hamaraja,” Road of Major is a four-member rock band.

Their 2004 major debut single, used as the opening theme for the TV anime “MAJOR: 1st Season,” features lyrics that stir the heart with themes of bonds with friends and the days they’ve shared.

The words, which intertwine determination to chase one’s dreams with feelings for someone important, seem to speak directly to those living through their youth.

It’s a straightforward rock tune whose driving sound sets your heart ablaze.

Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster

“Someday These Tears Will” – Little Glee Monster

An anthem that makes you believe the tears shed in a youth-defining challenge will someday turn into pride.

Included on Little Glee Monster’s album “juice,” this song was chosen in 2017 as the official support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

It sings of tears shed while striving desperately toward a dream, and of the moment when the days spent clashing and pushing forward begin to shine like a badge of honor.

The lyrics carry both a gentle warmth that embraces feelings too deep for words and a strength that urges you to keep looking ahead, resonating in the heart.

It’s a song we hope anyone pursuing a dream—or grappling with frustration or setbacks—will listen to.

LOVE Tear-ColoredMatsuura Aya

Aya Matsuura “LOVE Namidairo” Music Video

A classic love song that irresistibly captures missed connections and aching tenderness through exchanges over cell phone emails.

The anxiety of no reply, the frustration of feelings not getting through, and emotions overflowing—set against the backdrop of the flip-phone era, it delicately portrays the subtle emotional swings of a girl in love.

The melody crafted by Tsunku perfectly weaves brightness with poignancy, and Matsuura’s transparent voice—she was just 15 at the time—pierces the heart.

Released in September 2001, the single reached No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart, and at year’s end she took on the major role of opening act in her first appearance at the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

When you want to shed tears over love’s fragility, give it a listen.

tear(s)Ketsumeishi

Tears / Ketsumeishi (Cover)

A song themed around the “tears” people shed.

Its positive lyrics and expansive, flowing piano sound gently embrace the listener’s heart.

It’s a tear-filled anthem that says, “We may cry sometimes, but let’s keep looking forward and do our best,” giving you a gentle push from behind.