Popular Unrequited Love Songs: Japanese Music/J-Pop Artist Rankings [2026]

I didn’t want to know, if it meant losing it.atarayo76rank/position

Atarayo – “I Didn’t Want to Know, If It Meant Losing You” (Music Video)

This piece delicately portrays the turmoil of a woman who realizes that every “word” from the lover she’s supposed to be in love with is a flimsy lie.

She wants to believe but can’t; she doesn’t want to lose them, yet being together only makes it hurt more.

These tangled emotions resonate alongside Atarayo’s urbane sound.

Released in January 2022 and included on their first album, “In the Polar Night, the Moon Remains Silent,” the song emerged from a collaboration with Junwaidan.

It’s a highly relatable track that offers solace to those exhausted by the effort of trusting a partner, and to those who had no choice but to part ways with someone they love.

Best Friend’s GirlSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu77rank/position

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / Best Friend’s Girl

This song features the beautiful vocals and clean accompaniment characteristic of Sandaime J Soul Brothers.

The title “Best Friend’s Girl” literally means your best friend’s girlfriend.

You can probably guess where this is going—it’s a bittersweet story about falling in love with your best friend’s girlfriend.

Some men reading this might have been in the same situation.

You love the woman, but if you confess your feelings, it could ruin your friendship… So what should you do with these feelings? Just listening to the song, those helpless, heartbreaking emotions make your chest ache.

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Hane Keisuke

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MissingKubota Toshinobu78rank/position

Missing

Among the standout Showa-era ballads of the 1980s, this piece shines with a special brilliance.

Portraying the pain of heartbreak and inner turmoil, the ballad—imbued with Toshinobu Kubota’s distinctive musicality and deep emotional expression—resonates with many listeners.

Released in September 1986 on his debut album “SHAKE IT PARADISE,” it wasn’t actually a single, yet it gained such popularity that it has been covered by numerous artists.

It was also chosen as the ending theme for TBS’s “Uwasa-teki Tatsujin” and TV Asahi’s “World Pro Wrestling,” earning love across generations.

For anyone who has experienced heartbreak or harbors unspoken feelings, this is a song that will surely be by your side.

Having someone you likeJY79rank/position

JY 'Have Someone You Like' Music Video Short Ver.

A refreshing love song by JY that delicately captures the subtle stirrings of realizing you’re in love.

Though the protagonist struggles with frustration at not being able to be completely honest, they keep looking forward, believing they can “start over as many times as it takes,” making it a story anyone can see themselves in.

Lively guitar and a dynamic melody line further elevate the feelings of being in love.

Released in August 2016, the song was used as the main theme for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.

drama, and its music video—directed by Mika Ninagawa—also drew attention.

It’s perfect not only for those wrestling with romance, but also for anyone who wants to reaffirm their straightforward feelings for someone they love.

worst; minimum; the lowest; awfulren80rank/position

Ren – The Worst (Music Video)

Carried by a piano melody where poignancy and fragility melt together, Ren’s translucent voice resonates throughout.

Portraying the anguish and heartache of a protagonist who can’t forget their feelings even while their lover keeps secrets, this work lays bare the inability to say anything to someone who’s crying, as well as the anxieties and frustrations lodged in both hearts.

Released in October 2022, it sparked major buzz, with a short video set against Tokyo’s night skyline—posted on social media—surpassing one million views.

With lyrics and a melody that speak to Gen Z, this song gently embraces listeners struggling with impossible love, such as affairs or unrequited feelings.