Masterpieces of bittersweet breakup songs. Recommended popular tracks.

pinkshaitoopu

pink

This song could be considered a quintessential heart-wrenching breakup ballad.

The delicate vocals seep into your heart.

It carefully portrays the complex emotions of a woman who realizes her lover’s betrayal yet still can’t forget them.

The lyrics convey a longing to cling to happy memories of the past.

Released in February 2023, the track’s lyrics are also compelling for their sense of urban loneliness, with scenes like looking down over the city from a rooftop.

It’s a song that offers comfort to those bearing the pain of heartbreak or who have experienced losing someone dear.

It’s especially recommended for listening alone at night.

Tears of MagnoliaSutādasuto☆Rebyū

Tears of Magnolia

A love ballad that sings of the profound sense of loss after losing the lover to whom eternal love was vowed.

Using the magnolia—the flower that symbolizes spring—as its motif, it beautifully depicts warm memories with a beloved person and the loneliness felt after their loss.

It was included as the first track on Stardust Revue’s album “SOLA,” released in March 1993, and was later released as a single, selling 150,000 copies.

In 2005, an acoustic version was produced for a Nikka Whisky commercial.

For those who have lost someone precious or who recall bittersweet memories in the spring season, this work will resonate deeply with your heart.

I don’t like it.yangusukinii

Young Skinny – I Don't Like You [Official Music Video]

A song sung by Young Skinny, a group formed by members who gathered on social media, portraying the poignant feelings of a woman who can’t forget an old romance.

She’s thrown away every memento to move on to a new love, yet the memories alone won’t fade and resurface in unguarded moments—an experience many of us have had.

The more you think, “I’ve already forgotten,” the more the memories cling.

Released in December 2022, this track became their final single from their indie era.

It was pre-released on TikTok, and the music video’s premiere drew significant attention.

It’s a breakup song that gently reassures those wondering, “Why do I keep dwelling on this?” by saying, “Everyone’s the same—it’s okay.”

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.

missing youTomioka Ai

Ai Tomioka – missing you (Music Video)

This is a poignant breakup song by Ai Tomioka, known for her translucent vocals.

It delicately portrays her feelings for an ex-lover alongside the loneliness and anxiety felt in everyday life.

The phrase “On Mondays, I still think of you” is especially memorable and really resonates with listeners.

Released in September 2024, the song’s gentle pop-ballad melody helps soothe the pain of heartbreak.

It’s perfect not only for those struggling with love, but also for moments when you want to reminisce about past relationships.

Drawn from Tomioka’s personal experiences, the lyrics may move you to tears—and you might be surprised at how cathartic that can be.

lingering loveKitatani Ruki

Ruki Chatan “Koinokori” Official Music Video

This is a ballad by Ruki Kitaya that sings of the pain and lingering feelings of heartbreak—something everyone experiences at least once.

Carried by gentle, unadorned strings, the song carefully weaves the emotions of someone who can’t accept parting with a loved one.

The protagonist, avoiding places filled with memories—like the convenience store where they used to meet or the walking path—will be relatable to many listeners.

Since its release in January 2023, the song has generated a major response, particularly on social media.

It’s a recommended track for those nursing the wounds of a breakup or in the mood to look back on a past love.

remain ~ key of the heartKoyanagi Yuki

Yuki Koyanagi REMAIN

It was released in 2000 as Yuki Koyanagi’s 10th single.

The lyrics were written by Yuki Koyanagi, and it was used as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “How Long Will You Be Off Love?”.

It reached No.

7 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, and with this song she performed at the 52nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.