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.
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- Farewell Song: A goodbye song. A tearful parting song.
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Unrequited Love (1–10)
me me sheRADWIMPS
This is a song by RADWIMPS, a rock band whose lyrical worldview and musicality capture fans’ hearts and never let go.
It’s included on their 2006 release “RADWIMPS 4: Okazu no Gohan.” It’s a heartbreak song that sings of the sorrow of parting with a lover, as well as gratitude.
Farewell (1–10)
Any kind of goodbye can make you feel sad!
Even when we say “farewell,” it isn’t always a negative one. There are goodbyes to celebrate, like moving on to higher education or starting a new job. Still, parting ways is always a little sad. Here are some classic songs to lift your spirits as you face such farewells and carry that sadness with you.
About meMrs. GREEN APPLE
This song strings together messages to those facing everyday worries and anxieties.
Its lyrics depict accepting the differences between self and others, embracing inner conflicts, and affirming everything as you move forward.
In sync with its grand rock-ballad melody, it resonates even more deeply.
It’s the eighth single by the rock band Mrs.
GREEN APPLE, released in January 2019, and it remains enduringly popular.
It gained attention when it was chosen as the support song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
For anyone who has parted ways with dear friends upon graduating, this bittersweet yet forward-looking number is sure to strike a chord.
Give it a listen when you want to shake off your sadness!
HarukaYOASOBI
A bittersweet, heart-tugging song that portrays a farewell to someone precious with whom one has spent a long time.
Told from the perspective of an inanimate object watching over its owner’s growth and departure, it conveys a warm wish for the other person’s happiness, tightening the heart as you listen.
Created by the musical duo YOASOBI, it was released in December 2020 and remains enduringly popular.
It was a collaboration with broadcast writer Osamu Suzuki and was included on the 2021 album “THE BOOK.” Chosen as the image song for “Art Aquarium Exhibition 2021 ~Hakata: Festival of Goldfish~” and as the commercial song for “Puniruns,” this work is a tear-jerking goodbye song for those heading into a new environment or seeing someone off.
Please listen while thinking of someone dear to you.
Akaharukasumika
It’s a sublime song that portrays parting between people with a wonderfully refreshing touch.
Its theme is the feeling of reinterpreting past youth in a new light.
It sings of the anxiety and hope that come with a new first step.
This track is a self-cover by the rock band sumika—known for their bright, pop sound—featuring Rira Ikuta, and it’s included on the single “Honto,” released in February 2026.
It was originally produced as the campaign song for FM802 in the spring of 2025.
The title track of the single that includes this song is known as the theme song for the film “Doraemon the Movie: Nobita’s New Undersea Devil’s Rock Castle.” For those about to graduate and part ways with friends, it’s a moving masterpiece that may bring tears to your eyes.
Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri
It sings of someone who can’t forget the memories spent with a loved one.
Though the pain of parting is there, it becomes the spark for new beginnings—a masterpiece that conveys the bonds between people.
It’s a song by the singer-songwriter Yuuri, who drew attention during his street performances.
Released in February 2021, this track is included on the album “Ichi,” released in January 2022.
If you’re looking for a song that portrays a farewell in the season of cherry blossoms, give this one a listen.
It will surely give you the courage to accept and overcome the farewell you’re facing with someone precious now.
Listen closely to the phrases filled with messages that comfort the loneliness of parting.
Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro
This song drew a huge response as the theme for the film “STAND BY ME Doraemon.” It’s a classic that captures warm feelings of caring for one another and the hope that, even after parting, you’ll meet again.
Motohiro Hata’s gentle voice deepens the sense of a strong bond with someone dear.
Released as a single in August 2014, it was later included on the album “Ao no Kokei.” The track was also featured in NTT West commercials and on TV programs.
Its straightforward message—that hearts remain connected even when people are apart—makes it a perfect song to send off friends you’ve spent time with or colleagues setting out on a new path.
Why not give it as a gift, with a feeling of gratitude and a wish to give back?
Vocaloid sad (1–10)
A collection of sad songs by Vocaloid producers from all over Japan!
Songs using Vocaloid are created every day by Vocaloid producers active all across Japan. In other words, there are plenty of Vocaloid tracks that fit every kind of situation. Of course, there are many songs themed around sadness, and the lineup is packed with tracks where Vocaloid producers have put their own creative twists on things.
Dear me, who couldn’t become anyone.PolyphonicBranch
This is a rock number that sings about being tormented by self-denial.
The song is by PolyphonicBranch, also known as Polifo, and was released in 2019.
With a powerful guitar sound and Hatsune Miku’s clear, transparent vocals in splendid harmony, the lyrics reflect feelings of resignation and farewell.
It’s a song you should turn to precisely when you feel you’ve lost your sense of purpose and are burdened at heart.
It will surely prompt you to reflect on your own way of life.