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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Top 10 classic Japanese songs about sorrow
KanadeSukima Suichi
A signature song by Sukima Switch, known for its deeply moving melody and poignant lyrics.
Portraying the moment of parting—with the uncommon twist of a woman being the one who leaves—it stirs the listener’s heart.
Released in June 2004, it became widely known through its popularity at karaoke.
Many will relate to the narrator, “I,” who watches over and cheers on “you” as you grow.
It’s a recommended track for those who have experienced a farewell with someone important or who want to support someone they care about.
Its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody are sure to bring comfort.
MetronomeYonezu Kenshi
It’s a poignant song by Kenshi Yonezu that depicts the growing mismatch of feelings between two people who matter to each other.
It’s included on his 2015 album Bremen.
The lyrics liken two metronomes that initially tick in the same rhythm but gradually fall out of sync over time to a relationship drifting apart, offering solace to the pain of loss that everyone experiences.
The gentle tempo and piano tones are soothing, and you can’t help but be drawn in.
It’s a song I especially want those grieving the loss of someone dear to listen to.
Until the day I can no longer rememberback number
A poignant ballad by back number that quietly sings of lingering feelings and a sense of loss for a former lover.
Released in October 2011 as their third single, the song is also included on the album “Superstar,” which came out the same month.
The lyrics portray the emptiness of days that keep going even after losing the most important person in the world, and the deep bond in which the two formed halves of each other.
Fear of memories of the other fading intertwines with the resignation that they will eventually be forgotten, and the realization that the time spent with the person was part of oneself wells up with aching tenderness.
A song that offers comfort to anyone who has lost someone dear.
Classic Japanese songs about sorrow (11–20)
No way I’m going to forget it.SHISHAMO
An emotional rock number by SHISHAMO that hurls the anger and sorrow of heartbreak straight at you.
Included on the album “SHISHAMO 6,” released in January 2020, this track stands out for its unique structure, unfolding from a reggae-flavored beat into intense rock.
The protagonist’s searing emotions—crying, throwing up, and still trying to live on—pierce the heart through Asako Miyazaki’s vocals.
It’s a work that transforms the anger of heartbreak into catharsis.
Blue amberback number
A ballad that epitomizes back number, fully portraying deep sorrow and complex emotions.
Released in April 2025, this song served as the theme for the drama “From the Day You Were Taken,” aligning closely with its weighty narrative.
Like rare amber that changes color depending on the angle, the piece explores the multifaceted nature of the human heart.
Even when acting with firm resolve, another self is screaming inside—its wavering comes through with piercing clarity.
The grief of being torn apart by inescapable fate and the indelible memories of love are carried by a beautiful melody, drawing you in until you can’t help but empathize.
It’s a track you’ll want to hear on sleepless nights when you’re burdened with feelings you can’t tell anyone.
rendezvousshaitoopu
The rock band Shytone, which rose to prominence after a viral hit on social media, released a signature track in April 2023 that sings of a man’s searing emotions after a breakup.
Unable to accept parting from someone he loved deeply, he longs for an impossible reunion; the loneliness of his lover’s traces fading from everyday life is expressed through vocalist So Sasaki’s superb word choices—so moving you might be brought to tears.
The song is also known for surpassing 100 million total streams in November 2023 and is included on the album “Hors d’œuvre.” Why not entrust your heart to its somehow comforting melody that stirs up those bittersweet feelings?
I wanted to kiss you again.B’z
While B’z perform plenty of upbeat, high-energy rock, they also often sing poignant ballads filled with sorrow.
“Mou Ichido Kiss Shitakatta” (“I Wanted to Kiss You Once More”) is one such song.
As the title suggests, it’s a message to a beloved person who has gone away.