There are times when you suddenly find yourself feeling sentimental, aren’t there?
Cheering yourself up is one way to go, but it might also be nice to just let yourself be as you are in those moments.
In this article, we’ve picked out songs you can sink into on a sentimental day.
Letting yourself go with the flow and listening to classics like these can be surprisingly soothing.
These tracks aren’t just for autumn nights—you can enjoy them in all sorts of seasons and situations.
Hopefully you’ll find a song that fits your sentimental mood.
- Emotional songs that resonate in a sentimental autumn. A collection of autumn tunes.
- A nostalgic song—a timeless classic that somehow feels familiar and touches the heart.
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[For When You Want to Get Sentimental] Classic Japanese Songs Overflowing with a Melancholic Mood (1–10)
mintSuchmos
A five-piece rock band, Suchmos blends a wide range of musical backgrounds—rock, soul, jazz, and hip-hop—with an urban flair.
This track, released in advance as the lead song from their 3rd EP “MINT CONDITION,” features lyrics woven as a message to their friends that really stir the heart.
The funky guitar riff and airy arrangement make it a perfect BGM for when you want to sink into a sentimental mood.
With its laid-back beat that soothes a tired soul, it’s an emotional mid-tempo ballad.
Sentimental Kiss (Acoustic ver.)Shio Reira
When you’re feeling sentimental after a heartbreak, I recommend listening to “Sentimental Kiss (Acoustic ver.).” This song also drew attention for being featured on the dating reality show “He and the Wolf-chan Won’t Deceive.” It’s performed by Shioreira, a next-generation artist who debuted at 19.
The lyrics poignantly portray a gradually changing relationship between a man and a woman.
Combined with her gentle vocals, it’s a track you can really lose yourself in emotionally.
Cassis orangeBAK
Cassis Orange, released in 2022 by BAK, a singer active mainly on the internet via platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
The song honestly portrays the emotions after parting with a loved one, singing about scenes and places filled with shared memories.
Its simple arrangement of piano and vocals lets the wistful melody and voice come through directly.
It’s a track especially for those who “can’t forget the person they love.” Give it a listen on nights when you feel lonely or isolated.
Night Flightnishina
“Night Flight” is a song you should definitely listen to on a long autumn night.
It’s performed by the singer-songwriter Nishina, a rising artist who gained popularity after posting videos on YouTube.
One of her biggest appeals is her lyrics, which create a unique, immersive world.
In “Night Flight,” she compares the anxious feeling that a loved one might drift away to a piece of candy.
It might not click at first, but once you listen, it’s sure to hit you right in the heart.
Mr. Summertimesaakasu
Since their 1978 debut, Circus has been highly acclaimed as pioneers of a cappella and chorus groups, and this is their second single.
It’s a cover of Michel Fugain & Le Big Bazar’s 1972 release “Une Belle Histoire,” with Japanese lyrics.
Chosen as Kanebo’s summer campaign song in ’78, it went on to sell over a million copies.
Its adult, mood-enka-tinged atmosphere carries a wistful tone that deepens a sentimental mood.
A timeless classic, it’s perfect as background music when you want to spend some quiet time alone.
creamyama
This is the second digital single by the singer yama, who has garnered attention for their androgynous vocals despite keeping detailed personal information private.
Like the major hit Haru wo Tsugeru, it’s a track provided by Kujira, who is also active as a Vocaloid producer, and the relaxed arrangement that vividly paints scenes is truly pleasant.
The catchy, dynamic melody and lyrics that capture everyday moments may gently resonate with your sentimental moods.
It’s a wistful number you’ll want to listen to on days when you want to slowly immerse yourself in your own time.
Just like back thenBureddo & Batā
The duo singing lovely Showa-era pop that would feel perfectly at home playing in a stylish vintage clothing shop or hair salon is Bread & Butter.
The harmony these brothers create reaches the heart in a way that’s different from the folk legends The Hunters.
It’s a highly compelling blend: the chic sensibility rooted in Western music and the uniquely Japanese sense of melancholy in just the right balance, paired with vocals and accompaniment that are a real pleasure to hear.
It’s a track whose philosophical lyrics reveal something new with every listen.
