Saddest Songs Ranking [2026]

You and the slopesSHISHAMO92rank/position

SHISHAMO “You and the Slopes”

Kimi to Gelende, with its catchy melody that evokes an exciting romance, is actually a song packed tightly with deep sadness—quite the opposite of its tune.

It tells a heartbreaking story: the person she’s long had a crush on actually likes another girl, and when she sees the two of them getting along, she realizes their feelings for each other.

A bittersweet track like that.

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utatane

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A love with you from nine steps apartSHIROSE from WHITE JAM93rank/position

I turned the LINE message I sent to my lover directly into a song. “A Love With You, Nine Years Apart” SHIROSE from WHITE JAM [Live Video]

“A Love Nine Years Apart” is a song whose lyrics are taken directly from a message SHIROSE sent to his partner.

It’s a heartbreak song: the other person already has a new lover, yet deep down he still has feelings…

It portrays that kind of unrequited love.

I think this situation is common in relationships, but it’s truly painful, isn’t it? I hope they can find the strength to move on toward their next love.

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sasashina

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Mikan HeartC&K94rank/position

C&K – Mikan Heart

There’s nothing more painful than knowing your feelings won’t reach the person you love.

This is a song by the male music duo C&K, made up of CLIEVY and KEEN, released in October 2013 as their 10th single.

It’s a ballad marked by a poignant piano and deeply emotive vocals.

Centered on the theme of an “unfinished heart,” the lyrics portray longing and hurt for someone special, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

Many of us have probably had moments—on the way home from work or alone at night—when a sudden memory of someone brought us to tears.

CLIEVY’s high tone layered with KEEN’s warm voice amplifies the heartache.

The music video, featuring Haruma Miura and Naoko Watanabe, also drew attention for its dramatic depiction of the song’s worldview.

Included on the album “CK AND MORE…,” it remains a beloved classic.

It’s a must-listen for adult men who can’t cut off lingering feelings—when your head says you shouldn’t fall in love, but your heart can’t keep up.

loveback number95rank/position

back number – Koi (full)

A beautiful portrayal of youthful unrequited love in a song by back number.

“I want to tell you how I feel before we can’t meet anymore,” “I don’t need any other wishes to come true—just let this love be fulfilled.” These earnest emotions are woven together with a melody that resonates deeply.

Released in March 2012, the track was also used as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Music-Ru TV.” It’s recommended not only for those currently in unrequited love, but also for anyone who wants to reminisce about past romances.

Listen to this song to lift your spirits, and take the leap to confess your feelings!

He was alive, wasn’t he?aimyon96rank/position

Aimyon – I Was Alive [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Aimyong’s major-label debut track carries a message that pierces the heart.

While dealing with a heavy theme, it questions the preciousness of life and the difficulty of living.

Released in November 2016, it was also chosen as the opening theme for the TV drama “Is Kichijoji the Only Place You Want to Live?”.

Its powerful melody within a relaxed tempo and lyrics that resonate with listeners are striking.

It’s easy to pick for karaoke, and it’s a song you’ll want to immerse yourself in as you sing its lyrical world.

This moving, absorbing number is especially recommended for those struggling with life or who have experienced the loss of someone dear.

Thinking of you, unrequited loveTakanon97rank/position

[GUMI] Thinking of You, One-Sided Love [Original] / Takanon [Official]

This is a bittersweet love song about realizing you’re in love and feeling like you’ve grown closer, only to find out the other person likes someone else and end up heartbroken.

It was released in 2011 by the Vocaloid producer Takanon, also known for the hall-of-fame classics “The Color of the Next Blooming Flower” and “Datte Datte Datte.” You can’t help but cry when you think about how all the time you were so excited for is about to turn into something painful.

At the end of the song, the protagonist decides to put a lid on their own feelings and cheer the other person on…

It’s just too heartbreaking.

If you’re in love with someone you can’t be with, please give it a listen.

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sasashina

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AnswerIkuta Rira98rank/position

Lila Ikuta 'Answer' Official Music Video

Lila Ikuta delivers a heartwarming medium-tempo ballad that gently stays close to the anxieties and uncertainties of one’s future.

Amid a grand, dramatic arrangement, its warm melody stands out—offering the courage to take a step forward toward tomorrow while facing loneliness and pain.

It’s an encouraging song that softly nudges those who are unsure of their path.

Released in March 2021, the piece was also featured as the CM song for Tokio Marine Nichido Anshin Life’s “Disability Income Insurance,” resonating with many listeners.

It’s a moving, tear-evoking track we hope those searching for their own way, or spending days without clear answers, will hear.