Popular Heartbreak Song Rankings [2026]

rendezvousshaitoopu43rank/position

Shytoop – Rendezvous (Official Music Video)

Shytope is a three-piece band formed at a university in Kyoto.

This track, included on the single they released in April 2023, spread across social media to a wide audience of all ages.

Written and composed by vocalist So Sasaki, it portrays a protagonist running through the rain while bearing the pain of heartbreak.

The lyrics, which chase lingering memories despite knowing the relationship can’t be restored, will deeply resonate with anyone who has faced a springtime parting.

By November 2023, it had become a record-breaking hit, surpassing 100 million total streams.

When you want to draw a line under the end of a romance, why not listen to this masterpiece that gently accompanies a sentimental mood?

Heroineback number44rank/position

back number – Heroine (full)

This is a back number song whose poignant melody and lyrics resonate deeply.

Many listeners will likely relate to the lyrics that express bittersweet feelings for a loved one.

Released in January 2015, the track was also featured in commercials for JR East’s “JR SKISKI” and Kirin’s “Tanrei Green Label.” With over 100 million streams, it has captured the hearts of many.

Highly recommended for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or are in unrequited love.

Why not listen to this song and let your thoughts wander to someone special?

Never Grow Upchanmina45rank/position

Chanmina – Never Grow Up (Official Music Video)

This song features a relaxed beat and a light, breezy sound that feels great to listen to.

The lyrics, which portray complex feelings toward a former lover, are likely to resonate with many people.

It’s also included on the album “Never Grow Up,” released in August 2019, and it fully showcases Chanmina’s delicate emotional expression and globally influenced musical style.

It’s recommended for times when you want to heal the pain of heartbreak or are trying to move forward after parting with someone important.

A sentimental atmosphere lingers throughout this heart-wrenching number.

Cheer up!Takeuchi Mariya46rank/position

Mariya Takeuchi – Cheer Up (Official Music Video)

A classic by Mariya Takeuchi whose refreshing melody and powerful lyrics resonate in the heart.

It’s a song that gently supports those who’ve experienced heartbreak or setbacks.

Released in August 1987 and used in a SEIKO commercial, this piece has continued to stay close to many people’s hearts.

Mariya Takeuchi’s warm vocals blend beautifully with the sophisticated sound produced by Tatsuro Yamashita.

It’s the perfect track for times when you feel lost in life or want to encourage someone special.

Why not listen to this song and find hope for tomorrow?

OrangeSMAP47rank/position

SMAP – Orange

It’s a ballad that moves the heart not only with the sorrow of parting but also with lyrics brimming with deep gratitude toward the other person.

Instead of saying “goodbye” to a departing lover, it concludes with the word “thank you,” a turn that can’t help but bring listeners to tears.

Although this song was included as the B-side to the single “Lion Heart,” released in August 2000, it triumphed at No.

2 in the fan vote for the best-of album “SMAP 25 YEARS,” ahead of many of their major hits.

There’s even an anecdote that the ending of the lyrics was changed during recording—truly a masterpiece worthy of being called “the most famous B-side in Japan.” Listen to it alone at dusk, and you’ll be wrapped in a tender, wistful feeling and find the courage to move on to your next love.

Ref:rainAimer48rank/position

Aimer “Ref:rain” MUSIC VIDEO (5th albums “Sun Dance” and “Penny Rain” released simultaneously on Wednesday, 2019/04/10)

Aimer’s husky yet fragile voice, delicate enough to seem breakable, seeps into the heart.

This work beautifully portrays the emotion of quietly gazing at feelings that never reached their destination, layering regrets of days gone by over the ceaseless rain.

The repeating piano motif feels as if it mirrors the mind’s looping thoughts.

Released in February 2018 as her 14th single, the song was used as the ending theme for the anime “After the Rain.” It’s a track that gently stays by your side on a rainy day when you want to drift into thought, or on a night when you wish to sink into the sentiments hidden deep within your heart.

Blue BenchSasuke49rank/position

Blue Bench / Sasuke

It’s a pure love song wrapped in a sense of longing.

Set on a nostalgic bench after the lover is gone, it delicately portrays the emotions of looking back on an unrequited love.

Regret over not being able to convey one’s feelings and lingering attachment to a love that will never return resonate through the delicate vocals and melody.

Released independently in 2003, the song sold out all 500 copies immediately, despite being available only at a single store in the artist’s hometown of Ōmiya.

When you think back to “that moment” when you couldn’t be honest with a beloved partner, this song will be there to embrace your heart.