Unrequited love songs from the Showa era. Those nostalgic classics.

I wanted to see you.Haruo Oka

I wanted to see you — Haruo Oka

Haruo Oka, whose nostalgic and warm singing voice has captivated many, is a beloved figure.

Released in July 1955, this work is known as a representative song of the “madrosu kayō” genre, which centers on port towns and sailors.

With its emotionally rich melody and lyrics that resonate deeply, it became a memorable piece that offered hope to postwar Japanese society.

Issued by Nippon Columbia as an SP record, it was extensively featured on radio programs and in films, becoming a trendsetter of its time.

It’s a perfect song for those who want to revel in fond memories or experience a heartwarming vocal performance.

Eyes Are DiamondMatsuda Seiko

Seiko Matsuda “Eyes Are a Diamond” (from Super Diamond Revolution)

This is Seiko Matsuda’s 15th single, which depicts the bittersweet feelings before the end of a romance as if in a movie.

Released in October 1983, it held the No.

1 spot on The Best Ten for eight consecutive weeks.

On the Oricon weekly singles chart, it achieved the remarkable feat of monopolizing both No.

1 and No.

2 simultaneously together with its predecessor.

The lyrics, written by Takashi Matsumoto, memorably portray the moment of heartbreak—such as a farewell in the rain and the emotions of a woman stepping out from under an umbrella.

The melody, composed by Yumi Matsutoya under the pen name Kureta Karuho, results in a captivating song that conveys strength even amid sorrow.

It’s a recommended track for those seeking empathy and solace in the image of a woman striving to overcome the pain of a broken heart.

applausechiaki naomi

Naomi Chiaki / Applause [Official Audio]

A signature song by Naomi Chiaki that has continued to be loved as a Showa-era classic, conveying strength even within sorrow.

Released in September 1972 and winner of that year’s Japan Record Award, this work beautifully depicts both the singer shining on stage and the sense of loss hidden deep within her heart.

The contrasting colors—the white stage and black outline—vividly portray the public and private worlds, leaving a strong impression.

It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone who has lost someone dear or wants to face forward after overcoming grief.

Journey of the Heartchūrippu

Journey of the Heart

This is one of Tulip’s signature songs, portraying feelings toward the things left behind when moving to the big city or setting off on a journey, and the poignant emotions of being far apart.

It’s also notable that the lead vocal is handled not by the band’s leader, Kazuo Zaitsu, but by Tatsuya Himeno.

Alongside the fresh yet bittersweet mood of a folk song, the rhythmically striking sound conveys a forward-looking image, like the beat of a train in motion.

It’s a song that frankly expresses the struggle of departure: wanting to live with a beloved person, yet having to part anyway.

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The one I still love even after we’ve broken upRosu Indiosu & Shirubia

Los Indios & Silvia - Even If We Break Up, I Still Love You / LOS INDIOS & Silvia Wakaretemo Sukina Hito

Released in 1979 (Showa 54).

This big hit welcomed the sole female member, Silvia, and is a song that recalls a love that ended, set against stylish neighborhoods like Shibuya, Akasaka, and Roppongi during the bubble era.

Yet its upbeat tempo keeps it from sounding like a heartbreak song—that’s part of its charm.

Falling in LoveKobayashi Akiko

Falling in Love feat. Akiko Kobayashi (Cover by GILLE)

It was chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama series “To Friday Wives III: Falling in Love,” and it sings about the painful, heartrending feelings of a woman who has fallen for a married man.

Artists of all genders have covered it, and it remains popular at karaoke even today.

Red Sweet PeaMatsuda Seiko

Red Sweet Pea

This song performed by Seiko Matsuda is a poignant masterpiece of a ballad that slowly seeps into the heart.

The lyrics beautifully intertwine spring scenery with the ache of unrequited love, striking a deep chord.

Matsuda’s clear, soaring vocals capture the delicate feelings of a girl in love with nothing left out.

Released in February 1982 as her eighth single, it became a major hit and was also chosen as the ending theme for the popular TV program “Music Fair.” It’s a recommended track not only for those troubled by love, but also for moments when you want to feel your feelings for someone special.