![[2026] A collection of heart-wrenching BGM that makes your chest tighten](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/FjW1etUMSp0/maxresdefault.webp)
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.
- [2026] A Collection of Popular, Tear-Jerking Inspirational BGM
- Compilation of Sad BGM You've Heard Somewhere [Famous]
- [So touching it makes you cry] A heartbreakingly wistful and sad song that tightens your chest
- A bittersweet song that trended on TikTok. A heart-wrenching ‘setsuna’ song.
- Tear ducts guaranteed to burst! Heart-wrenching masterpiece songs I’d recommend to Gen Z
- This is the definitive BGM for the graduation ceremony! A moving collection of songs you can use for everything from the entrance march to the thank-you party.
- [Sad BGM] Music You Want to Listen to When You Feel Like Crying
- [For Work] Compilation of Tear-Jerking BGM Videos [Covers, etc.]
- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
- [Music Funeral] BGM to Remember the Deceased | Spotlight on Requiems and Dirges Praying for Peace
- Emotional songs from the Heisei era. Nostalgic tracks that really hit you.
- Colorful coming-of-age songs perfect for autumn listening
- [Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
[2026] A Heart-Tightening, Bittersweet BGM | Compilation (1–10)
A poignantly beautiful BGM that accompanies sorrowAkiyama Hirokazu
Hirokazu Akiyama, who has worked on numerous stage and film scores, created “A Bittersweetly Beautiful BGM that Stays Close to Sorrow,” a perfect piece for anyone seeking tear-jerking background music.
The collection features tracks with a grand, game-like atmosphere.
Each piece is characterized by clear, transparent melodies that make use of piano and strings, gently accompanying hearts weighed down by loneliness or anxiety.
It’s also a video I’d recommend to those who enjoy works with fantasy or RPG motifs.
The dream from that daySakuramochi Runa
The BGM video that matches those heartwarming, nostalgic moments is “A Dream from That Day.” It’s produced by Sakura Mochi Luna and offered as free BGM.
Its clear, soothing melody, composed of piano and violin, will calm the heart.
The track features a dramatic development throughout, with beautiful sounds that evoke a bright, uplifting spirit.
It’s a moving number that can bring back memories of seasons spent with friends or a loved one.
Since it has no lyrics, try listening to it while fitting it to your own story.
the first strong spring windnishina
A song by Nishina that delicately depicts a poignant spring scene.
The warm tones of the acoustic guitar and a melody line that feels somehow nostalgic sink deep into the heart.
The lyrics, woven with everyday scenery and memories, resonate with each listener’s own experiences and evoke empathy.
Released in March 2023, it was featured as a song for a radiko commercial.
Seeing the lyrics that recall a love which ended without ever being confessed may make many people feel as if their hearts are being gently gripped.
Summer Piano MusicRelaxing Music Pro
Here’s a track by Relaxing Music Pro that evokes various summer memories.
Its simple and beautiful tone is carried solely by the piano.
At nearly three hours long, it’s perfect as background music for work or studying.
It’s also great for a leisurely day off or whenever you want to calm your mind.
The sound gently expands like a nostalgic landscape, bringing a sense of peace.
This BGM video features a somewhat lonely, bittersweet melody.
Let these melodies—fitting for all kinds of summer moments—soothe you.
maybeYOASOBI
A YOASOBI song that depicts a memorable morning of parting.
The protagonist’s quiet farewell is conveyed through delicate words and a heartrending melody.
Released digitally in July 2020, it was also used as the theme song for a short film of the same name.
The lyrics, which portray the complex emotions left after a breakup and the changes in a relationship, resonate deeply with listeners.
It’s a recommended track for those who have experienced a springtime farewell or who wish to reflect on memories with someone dear.
I want to forget.wacci
This is a song by wacci that portrays the aching emotions of clinging to past memories while still carrying the pain of heartbreak and separation.
The lyrics capture the torment of wanting to forget but being unable to.
Released in July 2024, the track also drew attention for its music video starring actress Azumi Makita.
Even while thinking, “If I could erase my memories of that person, I’d feel better,” the inability to let go of precious memories is something many of us have experienced at least once.
For those bearing deep wounds in their hearts, listening may help them feel they’re not alone and take a small step forward.
From here on, you’re on your own.Ucchii Zero – ucchii zero –
“Beyond This Point, Only You,” composed by UcchiiØ (Ucchii-zero), who produces a large number of free BGM tracks.
The beautiful piano tone that evokes the poignant scenes of a story is striking.
The ethereal spread of sound and the sound effects are also moving.
Even in the face of losing someone precious, the piece conveys a powerful will to keep moving forward.
Although it has no lyrics, some listeners may find emotional lines coming to mind.
Please listen to the BGM videos that match each of your own moving scenes.