Crying-Your-Eyes-Out Song Rankings [2026]

Broken RadioTokunaga Hideaki71rank/position

Hideaki Tokunaga – The Broken Radio

Like music flowing from a nostalgic radio, a timeless song that seeps into the heart along with memories was created by Hideaki Tokunaga in July 1990.

The track, which overlays the feelings of a boy transitioning from adolescence to adulthood with the image of a broken radio, was used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Tokai no Mori” (“Urban Forest”) and reached No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Featuring a grand arrangement by Ichizo Seo and beautifully harmonized with Tokunaga’s delicate vocals, the song artfully blends elements of pop and ballad into a moving piece.

It was also included on the album “JUSTICE” and performed at NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 2006 and 2009.

Conveying the transience and passion of youth, as well as a yearning for self-renewal, this work gently embraces the emotional fluctuations everyone experiences while growing up—a resonant song that speaks to the heart.

Beyond the Night SkySMAP72rank/position

Beyond the Night Sky – SMAP

Thanks to Fuji TV’s popular show “National Hamonep League,” whose “Youth A Cappella Koshien” segment sparked the trend, a cappella choruses are booming.

It seems many people tried chorus for the first time after watching this program.

So how about taking on the challenge of singing SMAP’s million-selling “Yozora no Mukō” in a cappella? If you ask for help, your music teacher or the choir club advisor will surely lend a hand.

The lyrics, which poignantly capture the hazy feelings unique to youth, are outstanding.

Cover versions by Shikao Suga, who wrote the lyrics, and Yuka Kawamura, who composed the music, could also offer hints for your a cappella arrangement.

With a superb chorus, step into the spotlight at your school festival!

sympathetic tearsHitoto Yo73rank/position

Yo Hitoto / Borrowed Tears

The debut single by singer-songwriter Yo Hitoto, who has a Taiwanese father and a Japanese mother and continued making music in an a cappella club while attending Keio University.

Released in October 2002, the song reached No.

4 on the Oricon charts without a major tie-in and became a long-running hit, staying on the chart for 70 weeks.

The lyrics, which depict how a friend’s tears set off a chain reaction of emotions, are said to have been inspired by a heartbreak she experienced during her university years.

The striking chorus was crafted so that it can be sung universally using only vowels, creating a unique world where an Oriental, R&B-tinged arrangement and her resilient, powerful vocals blend exquisitely.

In 2003, the song earned her the Japan Record Award for Best New Artist and her first appearance on the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, making it the track that defined her career as an artist.

At all times.Makihara Noriyuki74rank/position

Whenever. – Noriyuki Makihara (Full)

Makihara Noriyuki’s signature song and a classic cheer-up anthem, “Donna Toki mo.” Released as a single in 1991, it also served as a movie theme song at the time.

More than 30 years later, it remains beloved by many.

You’ve probably heard it in commercials or on TV, right? It’s a familiar tune—one I hope you’ll listen to while reading the lyrics carefully at least once.

It’s a moving, heartfelt number that gives courage and strength to people of any generation.

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Winter IllusionAcid Black Cherry75rank/position

Acid Black Cherry “Fuyu no Maboroshi” MV

A song that sings of feelings for a lost lover shakes the hearts of its listeners.

Yasu’s overwhelming vocal power and his resonant tone even in the high range capture the sorrowful lyrics brilliantly.

Released in January 2008, the track resonated with many, topping the Oricon daily chart among other achievements.

It’s recommended not only for those who have experienced heartbreak or separation, but also for anyone who wants to reaffirm their bond with someone important.

Why not surrender yourself to the heart-piercing melody as you’re wrapped in the cold of winter?

Best FriendKiroro76rank/position

Kiroro ｢Best Friend｣ Official Music Video

Kiroro’s signature song celebrates the depth of friendship and the feeling of gratitude.

Released in June 2001, the track was also used as the ending theme for the Japanese version of the Disney/Pixar film “The Good Dinosaur.” Tamashiro’s warm vocals and Kinjo’s gentle piano tones create a melody that resonates deeply.

The lyrics, expressing thanks to friends who stay by your side in times of uncertainty, have struck a chord with many and are often performed at milestones such as graduation ceremonies and weddings.

Sing it with friends at a school or cultural festival, and it’s sure to become an unforgettable memory.

It’s the perfect song for conveying your appreciation to someone special.

seems like (just) my imaginationChōchō P77rank/position

[GUMI] Kokoronashi [Original PV] / [papiyon feat. GUMI] Kokoronashi [Original]

A timeless song whose poignant feelings resonate in your ears.

Released in 2014, this track is by Chouchou-P.

GUMI’s gentle vocals shine throughout.

You’ll be moved by the story of a robot “me” who realizes he has a heart through his love for a human girl “you.” It’s a song I hope you’ll listen to when you’re heartbroken and sad, or when you feel lonely.

It might give you a chance to face the emotions deep within your heart.