RAG Music
Lovely music

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!

Masterpieces of Japanese songs that sing of sorrow (81–90)

Regretsumika

sumika / Regret [Music Video]
Regretsumika

sumika’s “Regret” is a brisk, refreshing track.

Its vibe shifts dramatically from typical breakup songs by other bands, and that’s very sumika.

The protagonist seems to be wishing their ex could go back to when they still loved them and say something—anything—other than “goodbye.” When you recall how your partner was when they loved you, it’s hard to believe it’s really the end, isn’t it…

wishsumika

sumika / Wish [Music Video]
wishsumika

This song was chosen as the theme for the drama “Ossan’s Love -in the sky-.” What would you do if you found out that the person you like has someone they like? I think the shock of realizing your love won’t be returned is immeasurable.

Sumika’s “Negai” sings about that kind of heartbreak.

Even while holding feelings that can’t be accepted, it ultimately wraps everything up warmly and encourages taking a step toward a new love.

mutual feelingsthe shes gone

the shes gone “Omoi Ai” Music Video
mutual feelingsthe shes gone

A lover who drifted away because of my own mistakes… you can feel that regret so strongly in this song.

It’s by the three-piece band the shes gone and is included on their 2018 mini-album “DAYS.” The vocalist Maru’s pleasantly relaxed singing matches the ambient, expansive sound, making it easy to unwind.

But it’s still a breakup song.

As the track goes on, your chest tightens.

A love without regret… it’s hard, but it’s what we want, isn’t it?

I didn’t want to know, if it meant losing it.atarayo

Atarayo – “I Didn’t Want to Know, If It Meant Losing You” (Music Video)
I didn’t want to know, if it meant losing it.atarayo

A four-piece rock band based in Tokyo, Atarayo describes themselves with the tagline “a band that feeds on sorrow.” This track, included on their first album The Moon Remains Silent in the Polar Night, opens with a catchy, lyrical guitar riff that amplifies the sense of heartache.

The idea that some things are happier left unknown, or that you can’t walk away even when you know you’ll get hurt, is a story many who’ve experienced long relationships will relate to.

It’s a breakup song that conveys the difficulty of love, vividly portraying the painful emotions leading up to the decision to part ways.

Love songSambomasutā

“Love Song” is one of Sambomaster’s signature tracks.

It’s a love song addressed to a woman who is no longer here.

Brimming with longing to see her again, it’s a heartbreak song whose poignant melody and the vocals of Takashi Yamaguchi really touch the heart.