Masterpieces that sing about loneliness: J-pop to listen to when you're alone
This is a carefully curated playlist of Japanese songs that sing about loneliness.
Even when we say “loneliness,” there are many ways to feel it and many forms it can take.
Sometimes you despair at being alone, sometimes you want to be alone, and sometimes you feel the ache of not being able to see someone.
The feeling of pressing on even without someone precious by your side might also be a kind of loneliness.
Here are timeless songs you’ll want to listen to in those lonely moments.
Beyond the massive hits, you’ll also find tracks with a different kind of impact—songs that quietly support you at your core.
Every song here is a wonderful piece that stays close to the listener, so give them all a listen.
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A classic anthem of loneliness: J-Pop to listen to when you're alone (21–30)
Just… I want to see youEXILE
“Tada… Aitakute” (“I Just… Want to See You”) is a ballad by the dance-vocal unit EXILE, whom many of you may already know.
The song’s biggest highlight is undoubtedly vocalist ATSUSHI’s sweet, soaring voice.
It’s an unforgettable masterpiece once you’ve heard it.
The End of SummerMoriyama Naotaro
Naotaro Moriyama’s “End of Summer,” as its title suggests, is a song that sings of the loneliness that comes with summer’s end.
It often played on TV during the summer Koshien season and became a hit.
No matter the era, the end of summer is tinged with melancholy and a sense of solitude.
Classic songs that sing of solitude: J-POP to listen to when you're alone (31–40)
I’m just living for happiness.SUPER BEAVER
This is a powerful song that portrays the pursuit of happiness while confronting human loneliness and inner conflict.
It is included on SUPER BEAVER’s album “Ongaku,” released in February 2024, and was written as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “MARS: The Revolution of Zero.” Within its emotional rock sound, it conveys the importance of living true to oneself and the hope that arises from our relationships with others.
This work gives you the courage to move forward while accepting painful experiences and sorrow as part of who you are.
It’s a song to listen to when you want to face the feelings in your heart with sincerity, or when you’re ready to take a new step forward.
ParadoxSUPER BEAVER
A song that portrays the complexities of human relationships, its melodious rock sound and striking lyrics resonate deeply.
It skillfully expresses the conflicting feelings of wanting to be understood by others and the fear of revealing one’s true self, gripping the listener’s heart.
With powerful vocals and a full-band sound, this track draws out emotions from deep within.
The song is included on the album “I Love You,” released in February 2021.
It marks a milestone work for SUPER BEAVER as they re-signed with Sony Music Records.
The same album also features tracks such as the opening theme for the TV anime “Haikyu!! TO THE TOP,” making for a rich lineup.
It’s a recommended listen when you’re struggling with relationships or unsure whether to share your feelings with someone.
For example, if I were to dieMorita Doji
For example, Morita Doji’s “If I Were to Die,” a song by a charismatic folk singer whose legacy transcends time.
It’s also known for having been covered by numerous artists.
It truly feels like a classic Showa-era song that sings of solitude.
It always begins with rain.ASKA
ASKA’s “Hajimari wa Itsumo Ame” (“It Always Starts with Rain”) was released in 1991 and became a record-breaking hit.
It’s also well known as a Panasonic commercial song.
That year, ASKA was at the peak of his popularity, also releasing the single “SAY YES” as CHAGE & ASKA.
After the FestivalKuwata Keisuke
Keisuke Kuwata’s “Matsuri no Ato” is a popular song for its beautiful melody and relatable lyrics.
As the title “After the Festival” suggests, it sings about those lonely, desolate moments.
For Japanese people, the time after a festival tends to feel lonely, doesn’t it?