Popular Tearjerker Song Rankings [2026]

when the party’s overBillie Eilish92rank/position

Billie Eilish – when the party’s over

A song that steps back from the dazzling scene of a party to calmly reflect on a weary state of mind.

Released in October 2018 as the second single from the album “WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?”, this piece sings of the complex emotions where loneliness and relief coexist at the end of a romantic relationship.

With nearly a hundred vocal tracks layered to create a rich sonic image despite the minimal use of instruments, its production is breathtaking.

The music video—featuring black tears streaming from the eyes—sparked conversation, and the serene performance at the Grammy Awards left a lasting impression on many.

For those who resonate with the moment of drawing boundaries to protect oneself while bearing the pain of accepting a relationship’s end, this is a work you should definitely hear.

Unrequited loveAimer93rank/position

Aimer “Catouomoi” MUSIC VIDEO

Aimer has a distinctive singing voice that captivates listeners.

No matter the song, her voice draws you in—and makes your heart ache.

That bittersweetness is a perfect match for Kataomoi.

The poignancy of her voice resonates with the poignancy of the lyrics.

If you have feelings you want to convey to someone, this song will surely touch your heart; at karaoke, some people might even be moved to tears.

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futureKobukuro94rank/position

Kobukuro “Mirai” film “orange” version

A heartwarming ballad dedicated to those who live life with all their might.

This gem of a song layers gentle compassion for others with wishes for the future.

Released in December 2015, it was written as the theme song for the film “orange” and was later used as a tie-in track for the anime series as well.

With Kobukuro’s signature powerful harmonies and a melody line that resonates deeply, this piece leaves a lasting impression.

Performed on a school festival stage, it will tenderly color the bonds with dear friends and the memories of student days.

One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS95rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “One More”

Released in August 2010 as the 14th single, this song was chosen as the cheer anthem for the 92nd National High School Baseball Championship.

Many of you will fondly remember Masahiro Tanaka appearing on the cover and in the music video.

The hopeful message—“If you can just hang on one more step, your dream will come true”—overlaps with the image of high school players striving toward their goals and resonates deeply when you hit a wall in work or life.

With a structure typical of Funky Monkeys, alternating rap and catchy melodies, it peaked at No.

8 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and remained on the charts for 47 weeks, becoming a long-running hit.

It’s a tear-jerking support song that we especially want those who are giving their all—or on the verge of giving up—to hear.

I wonder if I’d still say it’s too late.Saucy Dog96rank/position

Saucy Dog “Would I Say It’s Too Late Now?” Music Video <4th Mini Album “Take Me” Released on 2020.9.2>

This is a Saucy Dog song that delicately portrays the bittersweet feelings after a heartbreak.

It conveys lingering attachment and regret toward a former lover, along with complex emotions about a new romance, resonating deeply with listeners.

Included on their 4th mini-album “Take Me,” it was released in September 2020.

The music video was directed by Ryoka Kumagai, and the members’ performances are striking.

With lyrics that anyone who has experienced heartbreak can relate to and a heartwarming melody, it’s especially appealing.

It might be nice to listen quietly alone and reflect on a past love.

It’s a song that lets you linger in your memories while giving you the courage to step into your next romance.

Graduationbenny blanco, Juice WRLD97rank/position

benny blanco, Juice WRLD – Graduation (Official Music Video)

A moving graduation song that poignantly portrays memories of high school life and personal growth.

This collaboration by benny blanco and Juice WRLD was released in August 2019 and dominated charts around the world.

The music video features many celebrities and depicts the futures of graduating students.

Set to a melody that samples Vitamin C’s classic hit, Juice WRLD’s delicate vocals sing about past friendships, inner struggles, and hope for the future.

Its honest portrayal of adolescent emotions will surely resonate with junior high school students as well.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to take a new step forward.

spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE98rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Spring Melancholy

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE delivers a deeply personal song written the day after a graduation ceremony.

It’s a heartwarming track that carefully weaves together the transience of youth and the preciousness of everyday life.

Set to a subtly wistful melody, it portrays time spent with friends in high school, the sadness of parting, and the difficulty of being honest with one’s feelings—beautifully capturing the complex emotions of adolescence that everyone experiences.

Released to the world in February 2018 as the B-side to the single “Love me, Love you,” it was also featured in a commercial for Suntory’s Craft Boss.

Embracing all who cherish everyday life, this work gently rekindles memories you want to keep tucked away in your heart.

It’s sure to resonate not only with high school students in the midst of their youth, but also with anyone who nostalgically looks back on their school days.