Tear-jerking unrequited love songs that will break your heart: timeless classics about unattainable love

I knew it—I love you.yashiki takajin

Yappa Sukiyanen ’96

This is Takajin Yashiki’s 13th single, released on September 21, 1986.

It sparked the “Sukiyanen” boom and became a big hit in the Kansai region.

Since May 2014, it has also been used as the departure melody at Osaka Station on the Osaka Loop Line.

Although he is strongly perceived in Kansai as someone skilled at talk, he was active as a singer with a sweet, gentle voice.

When I realized it, I was in unrequited love.Nogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 'Kizuitara Kataomoi' Short Ver.

When it comes to the appeal of the popular idol group Nogizaka46, it’s undoubtedly their mature aura.

Their gently sung “Kizuitara Kataomoi” can be called a hidden gem.

Be sure to pay attention to the heartbreakingly poignant lyrics.

Because I like you.Yuika

Because I love you. / “Yuika” [MV]

Starting in 2020, Yuika began posting videos of herself singing and playing guitar on video platforms and social media, gaining attention as a high school singer-songwriter.

Her song “Suki Dakara,” released on YouTube, became a major hit not only in Japan but also across various Asian regions such as Taiwan and Hong Kong, bringing her widespread recognition.

The lyrics depict a story from the perspectives of two people with unrequited feelings for each other—an arrangement that might seem frustrating to outsiders.

Featuring a gentle ensemble centered on acoustic guitar, it’s a comfortable pop tune especially recommended for teens.

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Hoshino Takashi

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That line is the horizon.kururi

Quruli – That Line Is the Horizon

Quruli is a musical unit renowned for singing with a distinctive worldview.

They produce a sound powerful enough not to be overshadowed even when performing with an orchestra.

Their song “Sono Sen wa Suiheisen” is an unrequited love song that carries their uniquely expansive sense of scale.

The strong and fleeting onesCocco

Cocco “The Strong and Ephemeral Ones” Music Video

This song portrays a poignant love that sets out on a difficult journey to build something precious for a beloved, only to be confronted with the reality of betrayal.

It depicts, with striking clarity, both the strength to fight for love and the fragility and weakness inherent in being human, while Cocco’s translucent voice resonates deeply.

Released in November 1997, it was featured as the theme song for JAL’s Hawaii campaign commercial.

It’s a piece that offers solace to those who resonate with the turmoil between wanting to protect someone dear and facing an unyielding reality, as well as to those struggling with unrequited love.

I My MocoMinase Inori

Inori Minase “Aimai Moko” MUSIC VIDEO

This is the fourth single by voice actress Inori Minase, released on August 9, 2017.

It was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Tsuredure Children, in which she appears.

It’s a song that conveys Minase’s gentle vocals and the nuances of ambiguous feelings.

Mutual loveaiko

aiko - “Mutual Love” music video

From the flutter in your chest the moment you fall in love to the ache of feelings that don’t reach the other person, Aiko’s crystal-clear voice resonates deep in the heart.

Delicately portraying the emotions of longing for someone, this work—released in May 2024 and spotlighted as the theme song for a popular animated film—has struck a chord with many listeners.

Aiko’s vocals and the film’s world blend beautifully, further enhancing the piece’s allure.

It’s the perfect song for those experiencing unrequited love or looking to boost their motivation in romance.

Why not listen to this track and find the courage to share your feelings?