Tear-jerking songs that play on YouTube Shorts. Recommended tracks.

It’s fine for now.Kotoha

It's fine now. / MIMI [Covered by Kotoha]

It’s a truly lovely song, with gentle piano tones and lyrics that feel like they affirm everything.

The original track by MIMI, active as a Vocaloid producer, is covered here by Kotoha from the HoneyWorks project.

It speaks softly to the inner conflict of putting on a brave face while secretly wanting to vent to someone, reassuring you, “It’s okay to be just as you are.” Kotoha’s transparent, pure vocals further highlight the warmth of the piece.

The original song was released in December 2022 and was later included on MIMI’s album “When You Hold the Night.” I recommend this track for nights when you’re worn out from work or studying and want to spend some quiet time alone.

You might find your tightly wound heart suddenly feel lighter—and tears may slip out before you know it.

Only a single voicerokudenashi

Rokudenashi “Just One Voice” / Rokudenashi – One Voice [Official Music Video]

Rather than pushing you from behind, it gently stays by your side… An emotional piece where an indescribable kindness slowly seeps through.

This song by Rokudenashi, a music project active online, was released in December 2021, with lyrics and composition by Vocaloid producer MIMI.

Contrary to the light, airy piano tone, the lyrics portray someone living earnestly while hiding their true urge to cry and instead forcing a smile—carrying that inner conflict.

Having garnered widespread empathy—its music video has been viewed over 100 million times—this is a message song that reassures you: it’s okay not to push yourself.

You’ll find yourself wanting to listen to it on nights when your heart feels tired.

If you call it loveUru

If you call it love

A moving ballad that portrays a love that is restored and reborn after a bond once on the verge of being lost.

Released by Uru in June 2022, her mystical vocals captivate listeners.

Some may know it as the theme song for the drama “My Family,” starring Kazunari Ninomiya.

The song expresses the essence of love realized after overcoming regret and failure, and its grand sound woven by piano and strings is sure to bring tears.

Her clear, enveloping vocals, which wrap around the narrative lyrics, allow listeners to draw out many emotions.

It is a work that stays close to your heart when you want to reevaluate your relationship with someone precious with whom you share your life and look ahead.

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.

LeoYuuri

Yuuri 'Leo' Official Music Video

It’s a tear-jerking song told from a dog’s perspective, portraying its bond with its owner and the course of its life.

The track is by singer-songwriter Yuuri, known for the smash hit “Dry Flower,” and is included on the acclaimed album “Ichi,” released in January 2022.

This song tells a bittersweet yet heartwarming story that makes you realize how the ordinary days with an owner were irreplaceable treasures.

The regret and gratitude one feels when the “ordinary” is no longer ordinary seep deeply into listeners’ hearts through Yuuri’s emotionally rich vocals.

The music video, directed by Mai Sakai, also drew attention, with its moving story resonating with many.

It’s a piece not only for pet owners but for anyone who wants to reaffirm the value of someone precious.

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.