[2026] Tear-jerking songs trending on YouTube Shorts. Recommended J-pop

I miss youNEW!RADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Aitai

A gem of a ballad, imbued with a pure wish for a loved one who’s been lost—impossible to listen to without tears.

It appears as the final track on rock band RADWIMPS’ album “2+0+2+1+3+1+1= 10 years 10 songs,” released in March 2021, marking ten years since the Great East Japan Earthquake.

The album is filled with messages from the band, who have kept the affected regions close to their hearts for many years, and its quiet soundscape of piano and rich strings sinks deeply into the soul.

For those who carry the ache of wanting to see someone they can’t, or who seek solace in their sorrow, this is the piece to hear.

Its warm afterglow, beyond words, gently envelops the heart.

budNEW!Kobukuro

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

This work was created against the backdrop of Kentaro Kobuchi’s feelings for his mother, whom he lost in his teens.

It portrays a sense of loss for what is gone and a powerful message about moving forward and overcoming it.

Gratitude and longing for his late mother are sure to strike a deep chord with listeners.

Released in March 2007 as Kobukuro’s 14th single, the song was chosen as the theme for the drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad,” which depicts the bond between parent and child.

Its gentle vocals will stay close to your heart and give you the courage to take a step forward.

Amanojaku – Wing Piano Ver.Akie Akie

[Akie Akie] Ameno-jaku - Wing Piano Ver. - [Tried Singing] [Original PV]

This piece is a cover by Akie (Akie Qiuying), a singer from China, of one of producer 164’s signature Vocaloid songs.

In contrast to the rock feel of the original, this version—arranged for piano by Uing—turns it into a heartrending ballad that brings tears to your eyes.

The protagonist, an “amanjaku” who can’t be honest with the one they love and ends up hiding their true feelings behind contrary words, grapples with inner conflict that deeply moves the listener.

Akie’s hallmark soft, translucent falsetto highlights that painfully pure emotion.

This piano version was released in January 2022, and Akie has said it’s a piece that means a great deal to her.

When you’re struggling with missed connections with someone important, these gentle tones will surely be there to comfort your heart.

Because you are hereUru

[Official] Uru “Because You Are Here” — Theme Song for TBS Sunday Theater ‘Ship of Theseus’

A number by Uru, whose captivating voice feels like it wraps gently around the listener’s heart.

This song was written as the theme for the drama “Theseus no Fune” starring Ryoma Takeuchi.

Just having someone important to you can give you the strength to overcome anything and keep going.

The lyrics are filled with a warm message that makes you feel that way.

They also tie in with the drama’s story, so many listeners will likely find parts they can relate to.

Released in February 2020, it is also included on the album “Orion Blue.” If you listen to it while thinking of someone you can no longer meet, you might find tears falling naturally.

Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi

Aoi Teshima “Letter to Tomorrow (Drama Version)”

It was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Love That Makes You Cry,” moving the hearts of many.

It is sung by Aoi Teshima, also known for “Teru’s Song.” Originally included on her 2014 album “Ren’dez-vous,” it was rearranged for the drama and released as a single in February 2016.

The song is structured like a letter addressed to one’s future self, depicting the resolve to keep moving forward amid anxiety and inner conflict.

Listening to this piece may gently encourage those who have left their hometowns to pursue their goals, or those who feel like stopping partway through their dreams.

Aoi Teshima’s tender, penetrating voice seems to warmly embrace even feelings of loneliness.

leap day personRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Leap Day Person [Official Music Video]

This is an emotionally moving ballad by RADWIMPS, written specifically as the theme song for the film “The Last 10 Years.” It is included on the album “The Last 10 Years ~Original Soundtrack~,” released in March 2022.

The anecdote that they read the script nearly a hundred times shows their deep affection for the project.

The lyrics are told from the perspective of the one watching over a loved one with only a short time left to live, conveying heartfelt gratitude for the miracle of meeting and the piercing sorrow of the time that remains.

Like a special day that comes only once every four years, the song expresses the tenderness of cherishing an irreplaceable presence, unfolding from a quiet piano to a grand orchestral arrangement that is sure to move you to tears.

It’s a touching piece that makes you treasure the “now” with someone important even more.

spin; weave; compose (e.g., a story)tota

Tsumugu / 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.