A classic Japanese song that sings of sorrow
In everyday life, we all go through sad experiences—like heartbreak or setbacks at work.
When you’re feeling down, some people listen to upbeat, energizing songs to lift their spirits, while others intentionally choose sad songs.
Which are you?
Sometimes, letting yourself sink into the ultimate sentimental mood with a sad song can actually make the sadness fade.
Here, we’ll introduce some classic Japanese songs that sing of sorrow!
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- [Melancholy] For when you want to sink all the way. Masterpieces that depict various kinds of gloom.
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Masterpieces of Japanese music that sing of sorrow (91–100)
Tokyoichou BOYZ
Even though I should be sad, what I keep remembering are the good times.
It’s a song by the punk rock band Ginnan BOYZ, who led the rock scene of the 2000s.
It’s included on their 2005 album “Kimi to Boku no Daisanji Sekai Taisen-teki Ren’ai Kakumei” (A Third World War-esque Love Revolution Between You and Me).
The lyrics describe how, in the midst of the city, the image of the person you love suddenly pops into your head.
The wrung-out vocals and palpable emotion are irresistibly compelling—an achingly moving work.
Give it a listen when you really want to cry your heart out.
Sorrow like snowHamada Shogo
This is one of Shogo Hamada’s greatest masterpieces, which also served as the theme song for a coming-of-age drama starring Toshiaki Karasawa.
Since the drama’s youthful story had somewhat cruel elements, there are probably quite a few people who feel very sad when they hear this song.
The chorus is such a heartbreak anthem that you’ll want to sing it out loud together.
The Silence of Sunlight Through the TreesUryū Akiha
Depending on how you look at it, it might not be a heartbreak, but it’s a song about parting with someone important.
Within the gently enveloping singing voice, I feel there’s an intense, aching emotion—so strong it makes you want to cry out.
Hello, Sadnesssaitou yuki
AAA is a dance and vocal group that enjoys strong popularity, especially among young people.
Among their songs, ‘Koion to Amazora’ is probably familiar even to older listeners, as it has been used in Ito-Yokado commercials and on NHK’s Red and White Song Contest.
It’s a poignant ballad I’d recommend to people of all ages.
SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
This “Soranin” is one of the most popular ballads among the songs by the popular band ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION.
The film Soranin fully reflects the song’s sense of wistfulness and sorrow.
The movie, too, is a sad coming-of-age story.
Spirit Boat (Shoro Nagashi)sadamasashi
Released in 1974, this song is a moving masterpiece that portrays lost love and wistfulness, inspired by Shōrō-nagashi, a traditional ritual from Masashi Sada’s hometown in Nagasaki Prefecture.
His deeply expressive vocals and lyrics—rich in emotion yet measured in tone—resonate quietly with listeners.
In February 2003, it drew renewed attention when it was used as the theme song for an NHK drama based on Sada’s semi-autobiographical novel.
Imbued with the power to overcome sorrow, this piece is perfect for moments of sentimentality or when you need emotional support.
Why not listen to Sada’s soul-stirring voice?
Love is overŌyō Fifi
The classic song that sings of a woman’s sorrow with abundant adult allure is Fifi Ouyang’s “Love Is Over.” It’s truly a breakup song that represents the Showa era.
Its greatest appeal is its mature vibe—so cool that it suits men singing it at karaoke just as well.