[2026] A collection of heart-wrenching BGM that makes your chest tighten
When you hear “melancholic BGM,” what comes to mind?
For generations older than Millennials, it probably evokes background music that simply tightens the chest with emotion.
But for Gen Z, in addition to that image, they might also picture melancholic BGM with a cute, endearing quality.
In fact, on TikTok and YouTube Shorts, you often see videos that pair deadpan, absurd mishaps with melancholic background music.
This time, we’ve selected melancholic BGM for a wide range of situations—from the kind you’d hear on social media to the kind that simply tugs at your heartstrings.
Be sure to check them out.
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[2026] Heart-twisting, bittersweet BGM | Compilation (11–20)
Sad memorieskoorogi
Among the royalty-free BGM distributed on the site DOVA-SYNDROME, “Sad Memories” is one of the most popular tracks.
In the first half, an extremely sparse piano phrase stirs unease; later on the number of notes increases slightly, but the unnaturally wide gaps between them create an eerie impression.
The use of many dissonances heightens a spine-tingling atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
True to its title, it powerfully evokes the feeling of revisiting sorrowful memories, tightening the chest…
lacerakuen shigai
This is a heart-wrenching ballad that paints a poignant scene in a hospital room, the kind that makes your chest tighten.
It’s a track by Rakuen Shigai, a popular Vocaloid producer known for songs like “Rohypnol” and “Gloria,” released in 2020.
In the chorus, the contrast between the beautiful synth tones and the noisy rhythm section deepens the song’s worldview.
This distinctive sensibility is so characteristic of Rakuen Shigai.
And the lyrics depict the final moments spent with someone precious.
It’s a Vocaloid song that hits you in the heart, making you think about what you would say to the person if it were you.
Inspiration to youKyaai
When it comes to BGM videos that unfold a wistful yet beautiful worldview, “Emotion to You” stands out.
Composed by Kyaai and offered as free BGM, it features a majestic sound that blooms from a simple piano tone and resonates deeply in the heart.
The nostalgic melody and ambient synths match perfectly, resulting in a sound that gently wraps around your worries and anxieties.
It’s an ideal track for scoring moving scenes or for moments of quiet relaxation and healing.
Piano 19Morita Koichi
Piano 19, composed by Koichi Morita, founder of the free music service MaouDamashii.
Its somewhat nostalgic sound leaves a strong impression, as if recalling past events and the people you’ve met.
The gentle strings enveloping the beautiful piano tone are soothing as well.
Since the track doesn’t have strong accents, it’s also recommended for those seeking soft music.
When you feel an indescribable loneliness or wistfulness, the moving, lyric-free piano sound will resonate with your heart.
It’s a BGM video we hope you’ll use in moments when you want to spend time slowly and calmly.
A night when I want to cryAYANE
Even when nothing seems to go smoothly, I want to stay true to myself instead of taking the easy, ordinary path! This is a song that encourages you with its positive portrayal of someone choosing to live in their own way, even as they struggle and suffer amid the rough waves of society.
When things aren’t going well, you might suddenly long for your family or find yourself reminiscing about a happy past romance.
But if you can think, “The pain I feel now is a trial for me—by overcoming it, I can become stronger!”, doesn’t it feel like you can keep going just a little longer?
Beyond sorrowAimer
This song depicts the aching feelings of searching for a lover’s shadow in a winter city.
Many listeners say its wistful sound and Aimer’s vocals—combining tenderness and sensuality—are etched deeply in their memories.
It enjoys immense popularity among fans, who say, “It always calms me” and “I strongly relate to the lyrics.” Released in September 2020, it was also used in a commercial for iichiko’s shochu, iichiko NEO.
Regrets like “If I could go back, I would never let you go” are something anyone might experience.
All the more reason to cherish the loved one before you as much as you possibly can.
[2026] Heart-Tightening, Bittersweet BGM | Compilation (21–30)
Will (suicide note).Cocco
A song that evokes a crushing, profound sorrow and aching wistfulness.
Featured on the debut album “Bougainvillea,” this piece stands out for lyrics that read like a final message to someone dearly loved.
The words, imbued with thoughts for those left behind, stir the hearts of listeners.
Released in May 1997, this track is surely one of Cocco’s signature works, cherished by many.
It’s a soul-stirring number for those who’ve experienced parting from someone important, or for moments when you want to confront the emotions within yourself.