Ranking of Popular Breakup Songs by Male Japanese Artists [2026]

White LoversKuwata Keisuke8rank/position

Keisuke Kuwata – Shiroi Koibitotachi (Full ver.)

It is a lyrical ballad that depicts the bittersweet feelings of love in winter.

Released in October 2001, it is a work by Keisuke Kuwata themed around the winter season.

Rather than simply mourning a love that has passed, it also carries a sense of celebrating the memories of love, portraying warm emotions alongside scenes of a city blanketed in falling snow.

It was used as the theme song for Coca-Cola’s “No Reason” campaign commercial, and later featured in UNIQLO’s “LifeWear” commercial, earning affection from a wide audience.

It is a heartwarming song to listen to when you want to heal a heart hurt by love or reflect on cherished memories.

It was all you.Yamazaki Masayoshi9rank/position

Masayoshi Yamazaki – Zenbu Kimidatta

This is a song by Masayoshi Yamazaki that quietly portrays the aching emotions of heartbreak.

Released in March 2003 as his 14th single, the first pressing included bonus footage as his first work bundled with a DVD.

Characterized by his gentle tenor that earnestly sings of lingering affection entwined with pain, the lyrics strike a chord deep in the heart.

Its simple yet delicate melody is perfect for moments when tears are close and you’re seeking a touch of solace.

Not only those experiencing a breakup, but even onlookers can listen and empathize.

With each listen, this work offers new insights and may help you overcome the hardships of heartbreak.

MissingKubota Toshinobu10rank/position

Toshinobu Kubota – Missing [Official Video]

This is a gem of a ballad by Toshinobu Kubota, known for his uniquely groovy style, perfect for an autumn night.

It poignantly conveys, with a soulful voice, the helpless love between a man and a woman who care deeply for each other yet can never be together.

The struggle of wanting to forget but being unable to, and the regret of wishing they had met earlier, really hits home.

The song was included on his debut album, “SHAKE IT PARADISE,” released in September 1986, and was used as an ending theme for shows like World Pro Wrestling.

Though it wasn’t released as a single, it remains one of his most beloved signature songs.

It feels like a gentle companion to the quiet loneliness that follows the bustle of summer.

Ruby RingTerao Akira11rank/position

Ruby No Yubiwa

This is a classic song that poignantly sings about the pain of a broken heart.

Akira Terao’s distinctive voice conveys the loneliness and lingering attachment after a breakup with even greater depth.

Released in February 1981, the song became a massive hit, topping the Oricon charts for ten consecutive weeks.

It was also featured in a Yokohama Tires commercial, leaving a lasting impression on many listeners.

The image of the protagonist still searching for a former lover’s face in the city, even years after parting, is striking and symbolizes the lingering feelings they carry.

It’s a song that I believe will resonate with anyone who has experienced the loss of someone important.

Effeminate; overly sentimental; being clingy/whiny (context-dependent)Gōruden Bonbā12rank/position

Golden Bomber “Memeshikute” Music Video

A song that candidly portrays the clingy emotions of a heartbroken man, it is Golden Bomber’s seventh single, released in October 2009.

While influenced by Showa-era kayōkyoku, it also features a distinctive sound with elements of Eurobeat.

It captured the hearts of many, winning the JASRAC Gold Award in 2014.

Combined with the band’s unique concept as a visual kei “air band,” it’s also very popular for karaoke—perfect for getting hyped with friends.

Recommended for those who want to empathize with the pain of heartbreak or sing their hearts out to feel refreshed.

cherrysupittsu13rank/position

Spitz / Cherry

With its melodious sound and lyrical lyrics, this masterpiece gently stays close to the heart.

While looking back on the days of a bygone youth, the protagonist’s resolve to keep moving forward carries a warmth that invites everyone’s empathy.

Released in April 1996 and reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts, the song was also included on the album “Indigo Chiheisen,” and has been featured in NTT East’s TV commercials since 2019.

This piece is perfect for moments when you want to take a new step forward while cherishing memories with someone special, or when you feel like linking arms with friends and singing together—any time you need a boost of positivity.

Goodbyeofukōsu14rank/position

Sayonara

This is a pure love ballad that poignantly portrays the end of a romance, released as an Off Course single in December 1979.

With Kazumasa Oda’s warm yet translucent vocals and a heart-stirring melody, the song richly conveys the sorrow of parting.

Its gentle, relatable lyrics—about a first heartbreak or a bittersweet farewell to someone dear—have made it a beloved classic that quietly resonates with listeners.

It was also featured as an insert song in the first season of the TBS drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3B” and later included on the album “SELECTION 1978-81.” As a song that stands by you through the poignant end of love that comes with winter’s chill, it’s especially recommended for those facing a farewell with someone important.