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

Tokimeki Part 1supittsu57rank/position

Spitz / Tokimeki Part 1

A song whose bittersweet melody overflows with longing and resonates in the heart.

It’s included on Spitz’s album “Himitsu Studio,” released in May 2023, and was also chosen as the theme song for the film “Water Flows Toward the Sea.” The lyrics vividly capture the quickening pulse of first love and the candid feelings of young people in love.

The emotion of “Every time we meet it hurts, yet I want to see you again” beautifully expresses the poignant ache of unrequited love that everyone has experienced.

It’s a recommended track not only for those troubled by love but also for adults who feel nostalgic for their youth.

The more you listen, the more you’ll find yourself overlaying it with your own experiences.

Spicasupittsu58rank/position

Spitz / Spica

This is “Spica,” a song released in 1998 by the rock band Spitz.

It was issued as a double A-side single along with one of their signature songs, “Kaede.” Many of you have probably heard it, as it was used in JAL’s “Resocha” commercials and as an insert song in the anime Honey and Clover.

Although the song has a very gentle and soft atmosphere, its profound lyrics can unexpectedly bring you to tears.

Give it a listen when you’re feeling anxious or lonely.

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Robinsonsupittsu59rank/position

Spitz / Robinson

A 1995 song that propelled Spitz to major stardom.

It’s a work with an evergreen appeal that never fades with time.

The melody and lyrics, imbued with delicacy, still move the heart even today.

Its distinct youthful transparency is also part of its charm.

Before you become a memorysupittsu60rank/position

Before You Become a Memory / Spitz

Spitz’s single “Before You Become a Memory,” released in October 1993, is a lyrical love song where earnest longing mingles with a sense of loss.

Originally a recut from the album “Crispy!”, it became the band’s first entry on the Oricon charts after being chosen as a TV program theme song.

It was also used in a commercial in 1997, and has continued to be loved by many across generations.

The lyrics capture that frustrating yet piercing moment before someone precious turns into “a memory,” making it perfect for times when you’re struggling with an ambiguous relationship and unsure of your feelings.

It’s a moving masterpiece that gently accompanies inescapable lingering affection and tenderness—be sure to give it a listen.

Nagisasupittsu61rank/position

Spitz / Nagisa

A work by Spitz that captivates with an exhilarating sound that conjures up sparkling summer scenes.

Set to a beautiful melody, it delicately portrays the protagonist’s emotions as they waver between the sweet, heartrending memories of a past love and the reality of the present.

Released as a single in September 1996, the song is also included on the album Indigo Chiheisen.

It became well known as the CM song for Ezaki Glico’s “Pocky Love Story.” It’s a track that seems to gently stay by your side—not only when you feel the wind on a summer drive, but also when you’re walking alone by the seaside or spending a sentimental night.

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu62rank/position

Spitz / I Should Be Able to Fly in the Sky

A gem of a love song delivered with a breezy melody that seems to float through the air and a voice brimming with vitality.

It weaves the wavering feelings unique to youth—where anxiety and expectation mingle—into a warm sound that gently embraces the heart.

Spitz’s eighth single, released in April 1994 and included on the album “How to Fly in the Sky,” later drew major attention when it was chosen as the theme song for the 1996 drama “Hakusen Nagashi.” Tenderly sung with poetic expression, capturing pure love and aching longing, this piece deeply resonates with young people struggling with romance and continues to shine just as brightly today.

When you want to connect heart-to-heart with someone special, this song will gently give you a push.

Beautiful finsupittsu63rank/position

Spitz / Beautiful Fin

Released in April 2023 as the theme song for the film Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine, this track is a clear, translucent work themed around an oceanic worldview.

Through the symbolic expression “beautiful fins” depicted by Masamune Kusano’s delicate vocals, a profound world emerges where fragility and hope intersect.

As Spitz’s first tie-in with the Conan series, the song debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and has been beloved by many fans.

It’s recommended for seaside drives in summer or for quiet nights when you want to calm your mind.