Ranking of Heart-Wrenching Songs by Male J-Pop Singers [2026]

Farewell, my loverSakai Masaaki71rank/position

Farewell, my lover

Masakazu Sakai’s “Saraba Koibito” (“Farewell, My Love”) is a breakup song that beautifully captures the sorrow of parting.

The lyrics depict the regret of overlooking everyday happiness and realizing it only afterward.

Kyōhei Tsutsumi’s beautiful melody and Osamu Kitayama’s delicate lyrics blend perfectly, while Masakazu Sakai’s expressive vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in 1971, this song has remained beloved as a classic covered by many artists.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to reminisce about past romances or when you’re trying to overcome a farewell with someone important.

Older listeners, too, are sure to enjoy it along with memories of their youth.

JuggernautNatsushiro Takaaki72rank/position

Juggernaut / Takaaki Natsushiro MV

This is a song by Vocaloid producer Takaaki Natsushiro, who is active in a wide range of fields, including launching a fashion brand alongside his music career.

Released in 2019, it became a hot topic and is now one of his signature tracks.

The lyrics bare the inner self that has grown through various experiences—aching yet passionate.

The chorus has an exhilarating drive that will have you hitting repeat.

If you like that kind of guitar rock, definitely give it a listen.

By the way, the video features a version sung by Takaaki Natsushiro himself.

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Araki Jakkan

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A critical hit!Amatsuki73rank/position

Critical Hit! / Amatsuki [Original]

A love song that’s the very essence of youth: “A Critical Hit!” Its pop melody and lyrics that capture emotions swirling like a typhoon are sure to resonate with anyone experiencing unrequited love.

It’s a must-listen for those thinking of confessing on White Day, and if you play it when you feel like giving up, it will surely give you courage.

Just listening to it will lift your spirits, thanks to the excitement of romance it conveys.

Even if you’re not in love yet, you might find yourself thinking, “Love sounds fun!”

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sasashina

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Ruby RingTerao Akira74rank/position

Ruby No Yubiwa

Akira Terao’s “Ruby no Yubiwa” (Ruby Ring), released in 1981, is one of his signature songs—a superb ballad that poignantly captures the bittersweet emotions of an adult man after a broken romance.

The lyrics use the image of a ring to striking effect, portraying a man who wanders the city to ease his loneliness, clinging to memories and lingering feelings for a former lover.

Although sales were slow at first, the song gradually gained popularity and became a major hit.

It spent 12 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on The Best Ten and won the 23rd Japan Record Award.

Revered across generations, it has been used in commercials and even as an entrance march at the National High School Baseball Championship.

It remains an enduring classic that resonates with anyone who has experienced loss or parting—a song well worth listening to.

Until we meet againOzaki Kiyohiko75rank/position

Mata Au Himade

Kiyohiko Ozaki’s “Mata Au Hi Made” is a masterpiece that portrays parting with aching sadness, lingering regret, and yet a certain freshness.

The image of two people caring for each other and facing forward is striking.

Choosing to part ways while wishing happiness for one another—that mature form of love is warmly embraced by Ozaki’s rich, velvety voice.

Since its 1971 release, the song has garnered numerous awards and been featured in many films and TV dramas, remaining beloved across generations.

Listening to it will likely bring back memories from those days and leave you with a sense of your heart being cleansed.

Stop the night once moreSakiya Kenjirō76rank/position

Kenjiro Sakiya / Stop the Night Once More [Official Video]

This is a commercial for Lighthouse, known for its appealing simple, traditional design, which had been on sale since 1986.

The scene where a woman extends her arm wearing a Lighthouse watch out of a car window to call out to a man is especially striking, isn’t it? The BGM in this commercial is Kenjiro Sakiya’s 1987 song “Mou Ichido Yoru o Tomete” (“Stop the Night Once More”).

Its lyrics, poignantly depicting a couple drifting apart against their true feelings, captured the hearts of many listeners.

After being featured in this commercial, the song went on to be used as a theme and insert song in numerous dramas and films.

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Hane Keisuke

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homeKiyama Yusaku77rank/position

Yusaku Kiyama - Home

Yusaku Kiyama’s “HOME” is an achingly sad yet heartwarming song.

Any father with a wife and children who listens to it will surely be moved to tears.

That’s how powerfully it conveys the preciousness of family and the longing to be with them.

A long nightMatsuyama Chiharu78rank/position

Long Night - Chiharu Matsuyama

Chiharu Matsuyama’s song “A Long Night” is, for many older listeners, probably a deeply nostalgic unrequited-love song.

It’s achingly bittersweet, and both the lyrics and the melody are wonderful.

Try listening to it alone late at night—it’s a song that pierces the heart.

A Letter to YouKuwata Keisuke79rank/position

Keisuke Kuwata – A Letter to You (Full ver.)

This is Keisuke Kuwata’s 17th single.

It was selected as the theme song for the film “Gold Medal Man” starring Teruyoshi Uchimura.

Although it’s a wistful ballad, it has that quintessential Kuwata touch, gently encouraging you about life and your past self.

It’s perfect for the colder seasons, like autumn and winter.

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sasashina

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Sad feelingsKuwata Keisuke80rank/position

Keisuke Kuwata – Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love) (Full ver.)

This is the solo debut single by Keisuke Kuwata, the vocalist of Southern All Stars.

At first listen it has a bright, breezy sound, but beneath that lies the inescapable loneliness of a man heartbroken in love.

The contrast between the cheerful tone and the heartrending lyrics may, if anything, tighten many listeners’ chests.

Released in October 1987, it was later included on the album “Keisuke Kuwata.” Please take your time and give it a careful listen.