7 types of sad songs: tear-jerker tracks for every scene
In life, it’s inevitable that sad things happen at various times.
We experience heartbreak and partings, and sometimes we even have to face the death of someone dear to us…
Even when we understand this in our heads, there are times when we just can’t shake the sadness.
In those moments, I’d like to introduce some timeless songs that will stay close to your heart.
I’m sure you’ll find lyrics you can relate to.
If you encounter that one special song, it might make your sadness a little easier to bear.
So sad it could make you cry (1–10)
Timeless songs that bring tears to your eyes just by listening
First, let me introduce some sad songs that will make you cry just by listening. I’m sharing tear-jerking tracks for various situations, so if you’re looking for sad songs, start here.
Why do I feel so sad?yoshida takurou
Have you ever felt a sudden wave of loneliness while walking alone through the city late at night? This song, included on the album “Ningen Nante,” released in November 1971, is one that gently stays by your side in such wistful moments.
It’s said that Takuro Yoshida wrote it in one go after returning home from Shinjuku and listening to James Brown, riding that emotional momentum.
The band sound featuring Kazuhiko Kato and others sinks deeply into a lonely heart.
In 2017, it was used as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s drama “Pense,” bringing it renewed attention.
Try listening to it quietly at night, sipping a drink by yourself.
This timeless work will gently soothe your tired soul.
Blue amberback number
A ballad that epitomizes back number, fully portraying deep sorrow and complex emotions.
Released in April 2025, this song served as the theme for the drama “From the Day You Were Taken,” aligning closely with its weighty narrative.
Like rare amber that changes color depending on the angle, the piece explores the multifaceted nature of the human heart.
Even when acting with firm resolve, another self is screaming inside—its wavering comes through with piercing clarity.
The grief of being torn apart by inescapable fate and the indelible memories of love are carried by a beautiful melody, drawing you in until you can’t help but empathize.
It’s a track you’ll want to hear on sleepless nights when you’re burdened with feelings you can’t tell anyone.
spin; weave; compose (e.g., a story)tota
An overwhelming sense of loss for a cherished person you can no longer meet.
Gently accompanying that aching heart are the works of Totasan, an artist drawing attention as a bedroom creator.
Released in February 2023 and included on the first album “oidaki,” this piece sparked a major reaction, even reaching No.
1 on the USEN HIT SNS rankings.
Its poetic worldview—overlaying delicate, shifting emotions onto natural scenes like the sky and wind—leaves a strong impression.
While wishing for the other person’s happiness, the fierce longing to meet them once more creates a painful inner conflict that tightens your chest just by listening.
Even amid sorrow, the resolve to weave hope for tomorrow is sure to move your heart.
Lingering wordsSou
This song portrays a bittersweet resolve to keep moving forward while carrying feelings for someone lost.
Featured on Sou’s 4th album, “Sense of Wonder,” it was released digitally in advance in June 2024.
The sound crafted by mol-74 and the quietly woven lyrics blend beautifully.
Its emotional atmosphere is sure to bring many listeners to tears.
When you feel lonely or spend a night thinking of someone dear, this track will be there to comfort your heart.
It’s a standout album that also includes the opening theme for the TV anime “THE NEW GATE.”
SAD SONG feat. No No Girls FINALISTSchanmina
A special song by Chanmina and the “No No Girls” finalists has moved many to tears with its stirring performance.
The lyrics—filled with the bittersweetness behind happiness and a strong resolve to believe in the future—captivate listeners and make the piece deeply compelling.
Said to be based on Chanmina’s real experiences, it conveys the loneliness of chasing a dream and the importance of bonds with fellow travelers.
Released in January 2025, the song’s performance on THE FIRST TAKE in May of the same year tied in with the audition project and generated great emotion, topping YouTube for 10 days.
If you’re working hard at something, this song is sure to gently nudge you forward.
Don’t miss the chance to experience it.
Heartbreak (1–10)
Heartbreak really is sad and painful…!
No matter how old you are, heartbreak is always painful, isn’t it? Whether it was unrequited love or a mutual relationship, it can feel like there’s a gaping hole in your heart. Here, I’ll introduce some breakup songs that will stay by your side and comfort you through that sad and painful heartbreak.