Popular Tearjerker Song Rankings [2026]

from Y to YJimii Samu P64rank/position

Hatsune Miku from Y to Y

It’s a medium-tempo ballad that gently wraps a heartrending farewell.

Composed by JimmySamP, who also created “Calc.” and “No Logic,” it was released in 2009.

Featured in the rhythm games “Hatsune Miku: Project DIVA 2nd” and “Project SEKAI: Colorful Stage! feat.

Hatsune Miku,” it’s a classic that has captivated Vocaloid fans for many years.

The delicate piano-centered arrangement paired with a sentimental melody is truly wonderful.

This song stays close to the hearts of those burdened by the pain of heartbreak and loneliness, giving them the courage to look forward.

Give it a listen when you feel like having a good cry.

I became someone else’s girlfriend.wacci65rank/position

wacci “I Became Someone Else’s Girlfriend” Music Video

A song that captures the complex feelings of a woman telling her ex that she’s found a new partner.

Her current boyfriend is mature, kind, and makes her feel safe, yet she can’t help but remember how naturally she could be herself around her ex—the song carefully portrays that inner conflict.

Written by wacci’s vocalist Yohei Hashiguchi after hearing a story from a female friend, the track was released digitally in 2018.

Its popularity spread by word of mouth, and by 2021 it had surpassed 100 million total streams.

Recommended for anyone who wants to treasure their current relationship but can’t quite let go of lingering feelings for an ex.

366 daysHY66rank/position

HY – “366 Days” Live Music Video

A gem of a ballad by HY, a mixture band from Okinawa, included on their 2008 album HeartY.

Chosen as the theme song for the film Threads of Red, it became a major hit.

Based on member Izumi Nakasone’s own experience of heartbreak, the lyrics candidly portray the aching feelings of being unable to forget someone after a breakup.

Carried by a simple piano melody, the powerful vocals convey the protagonist’s pain and lingering attachment with great depth.

Though centered on an unfulfilled love, it’s a masterpiece that brings the feelings for the other person poignantly to the fore.

sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI67rank/position

Sakanaction “Sazanka”

This is a song by SEKAI NO OWARI whose lyrics, written from the perspective of someone watching over a dream-chaser up close, pierce straight to the heart.

It’s not just a cheer song; it portrays a deep love that sheds tears of joy precisely because it understands the pain and loneliness that accompany the process of taking on a challenge.

Released in February 2018, it was also chosen as NHK’s broadcast theme for the PyeongChang Olympics and Paralympics.

It’s included on the album Lip as well.

Bearing the name of a flower that blooms powerfully despite the cold, this piece is sure to stand with everyone facing adversity.

It’s a moving song that gently warms the heart—one to hear when you’re striving desperately toward a goal, or when you’re quietly supporting someone else.

KanadeSukima Suichi68rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This is one of Sukima Switch’s signature ballads, the kind you want to listen to when the season of farewells arrives.

Released as a single in March 2004, it’s also well known as an insert song for the film “Rough” and as the ending theme on the final day of the 2006 “Nettō Kōshien.” The lyrics, set to a wistful melody, portray parting with someone important while holding on to hope for the future.

Many listeners are surely moved by its message of a strong bond that keeps people connected through song even when they’re apart.

Featured on the album “Natsugumo Noise,” it has remained beloved and has been covered by many artists.

It’s a song perfect for spring, when life changes—whether you’re taking a new step forward or looking back nostalgically on your youth.

wrinklebuzzG69rank/position

[GUMI] Wrinkles [Official Video]

It’s a pure love song that looks back on a life walked together with someone precious.

It’s a track by buzzG, released in 2012.

The original version is included on the album “AMPLOID,” and a rearranged version appears on “THE WALL.” The emotional guitar sound blends beautifully with GUMI’s clear vocals.

And the lyric world—“wrinkles as proof of happiness that increase precisely because you spend so long with the one you love”—is enough to bring tears to your eyes.

It’s a song that will resonate deeply when you’re facing a turning point in life.

The happiest way to die in the worldkoka70rank/position

The Happiest Way to Die in the World / Reminiscence Song feat. IA

Even with its striking title, “The Happiest Way to Die in the World” is drawing attention.

It’s a ballad that sings about the idea that “if everyone hates you, perhaps it wouldn’t be sad even if you were to die.” Take a moment to reflect on that perspective yourself.

Another appeal is how the simple piano tone accentuates IA’s vocals.

With its very quiet melody, it’s also perfect as a companion for relaxation time.

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