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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Karaoke (1–10)
I love you.NEW!Hirai Ken
A fragile, gentle ballad produced by Seiji Kameda that sings of the sorrow and love of losing someone dear, it served as the theme song for the film “Ghost: Mou Ichido Dakishimetai,” released on November 10, 2010.
A dramatic signature song commemorating the 15th anniversary of his debut, its music video features Ken Hirai himself giving a powerful performance as a deceased man, resulting in a deeply moving work.
The song’s overall vocal range is E3–D5, roughly two octaves, and as long as you can produce low notes and falsetto without strain, it shouldn’t pose much difficulty.
Try projecting your voice as if pulling it toward the back of your head—you may find it a bit easier to sing.
NAOHY
This work, which vividly portrays the pain of unrequited and unattainable love, is a ballad that brings listeners to tears.
The lyrics are based on the real-life experience of vocalist Izumi Nakasone’s close friend, and the aching feeling of not being noticed by the one you love comes through painfully clearly.
Included on the album “Confidence,” released in April 2006, it’s a timeless classic that has long been cherished by many fans.
It is also featured on the best-of album “STORY ~HY BEST~,” and has become established as a signature heartbreak song by HY.
Set to a piano accompaniment that lets you sing your heart out, it’s perfect for those times when you want a good cry to feel refreshed.
If there’s someone you just can’t forget, why not sing this song at karaoke and let all your feelings out?
me me sheRADWIMPS
A ballad by the rock band RADWIMPS whose aching melody and candid lyrics pierce the heart.
The title is read as “Memeshii,” and it portrays a complex state of mind where lingering attachment to an ex and a self-centered kind of love are intertwined.
Many listeners will likely relate to the contradictory feelings of acknowledging one’s own weakness as “memeshii” while still wishing happiness for the other person.
Included on the classic 2006 album RADWIMPS 4 ~Okazu no Gohan~, it’s not a single, yet it has remained beloved for years.
When you want to let your overflowing emotions out through song, or sink fully into the pain of heartbreak at night, try singing it at karaoke—you might find your heart feels a little lighter.
Song of the Eternal NightKami wa saikoro o furanai
On sleepless nights, I suddenly remember someone precious who’s no longer by my side.
This is a tear-jerking rock ballad that sings of a heartbreak so intense it feels like your chest might burst.
It’s a work by the Fukuoka-born band God Doesn’t Roll Dice, included on their mini-album “A View on Lambda,” released in May 2019.
Starting with an intro that feels like turning back the hands of a clock, it builds to a dramatic chorus where emotions spill over all at once, sending shivers through your heart.
It also served as the theme song for the film “Little Subculture Wars: The Rebellion of Village Vanguard!” released in October 2020.
It’s a song that gently stays with you on nights when you can’t let go of a love you can’t forget, or when you want to sing your heart out and cry at karaoke.
nape (of the neck)aiko
Opening with the sound of a beautiful piano, this is a supreme ballad from aiko.
The lyrics delicately trace lingering feelings for a past lover and memories that don’t fade even as the seasons turn, gently comforting hearts fresh from heartbreak.
While accepting the breakup, the earnest wish to meet again in a few years with a smile is a message that’s sure to tug at anyone’s heart.
Released in November 2003, this song was a lead single from the acclaimed album “Akatsuki no Love Letter” and was also performed at the 54th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
It’s a piece that suits the quiet winter air—on nights when you want to cleanse your sadness, try singing it out and letting your overflowing emotions flow with it.