[Heartbreak Songs] A selection of poignant love songs that pierce the heart of those with unrequited love

PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Pretender [Official Video]

This song drew huge attention as the theme for the film “Confidence Man JP.” It’s a love song from the perspective of a man with unrequited feelings, and in the lyrics his love never comes true.

He knows his feelings will never reach the other person and that the two of them won’t work out—yet he still can’t give up.

That straightforward, earnest emotion is vividly portrayed.

The piano-centered accompaniment sets the stage for a beautiful, slightly distinctive singing voice that resonates wonderfully.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Happy Endingback number

back number – Happy End (full)

This is a poignant song by back number that portrays a woman putting on a brave face at the moment of parting.

On the surface she tries to send him off with a smile, yet she cannot let go of her feelings for him, and the delicate depiction of her inner turmoil is deeply moving.

Written as the theme song for the film “My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday,” released in December 2016, it also drew attention for its music video featuring actress Erika Karata, and was later included on the album “Encore.” If you find yourself in a situation where you have no choice but to give up while still harboring feelings for someone you love, you may see yourself in this song.

It’s a soul-stirring track that will make you want to listen to it again and again through tears.

Only I liked it.suisou gurashi

Suysougurashi 'I Was the Only One Who Loved It.' Official Music Video

A heartbreak song by suisougurasu that delicately portrays the ache and lingering attachment of love.

Eye’s clear, translucent vocals beautifully capture the painful feeling of being left behind while the other person moves on to their next romance.

Many listeners will relate to the lyrics, which depict how a casual message from the person you like can throw your heart into turmoil.

Released in September 2021, this song is sure to resonate with anyone who can’t forget someone they love or is suffering from a love they can’t let go of.

wrapTENSONG

TENSONG “Matoi (Wrapped In)” [Official Music Video]

A heartrending breakup song that portrays the end of unrequited love.

The regret of not being able to confess and the inability to forget the other person resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in July 2021 and widely discussed on social media, the song draws from vocalist Takabō’s real experiences.

Through simple yet profound lyrics, it expresses the meaning of cherishing feelings for someone you can’t forget as precious memories kept in your heart.

It also carries messages about the importance of acknowledging the feeling of “love” and understanding gender diversity, making it a track that gently supports those struggling with the conflicts of romance.

You look like an idiot.Saucy Dog

Saucy Dog “Like a Fool.” Music Video (Theme song for ABEMA’s “You Can’t Fool Me, Mr. Wolf”)

It carefully portrays the delicate feelings of a woman who can’t express herself well: while harboring the desire to know the other person more and to have them all to herself, and feeling love for them, she’s already fed up, believing there’s nothing more she can do.

Chosen as the theme song for ABEMA’s dating reality show “Don’t Be Fooled by Me and Mr.

Wolf,” the track was released digitally in August 2024, and is memorable for its emotional band sound and Shinya Ishihara’s vocals.

It’s a perfect song for those who can’t grasp how the person they like truly feels and are struggling with inner conflict.

Recommended for anyone who can relate to the sorrow of loving someone yet being unable to move forward.

HeartacheONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – Heartache [Studio Jam Session]

Their ballads, whether about unrequited love or heartbreak, really resonate.

This is “Heartache,” which was also the theme song for the film Rurouni Kenshin.

Vocalist Taka’s high tones convey the pain so well.

Even on their overseas stages, where they’ve become a globally popular band, crowds sing along in Japanese—second only to their masterpiece “Wherever you are.” It really shows the scale of what they’ve achieved!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Yoshizaki Keiko

Report a problem

Why not me?Misaka Saki

Saki Misaka – Isn’t It Fine If It’s Me (Full ver.)

This song by Saki Misaka portrays the bittersweet feelings of gradually falling in love, even though you thought you were content just staying close as a friend.

With a clear, gentle voice, she expresses the conflict of wishing for the other person’s happiness while not wanting to see them with someone else.

Released digitally in February 2021, the track was also chosen as the theme song for ABEMA’s romantic reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.” It’s sure to resonate with those who, despite knowing what would bring happiness, can’t let go, and who sense the other person’s feelings yet can’t bring themselves to speak up.