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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Masterpieces of Japanese songs about sorrow (21–30)
loadTHE toraburyū
When I think of songs that sing about sorrow, the first that comes to mind is THE Toraburyu’s “Road.” Released in 1993, it became a massive hit, selling 2.2 million copies.
It’s a love song that mourns a beloved person who passed away in an accident.
painVaundy
This song is imbued with deep insight into the absurdity of life.
It sincerely confronts the meaning of birth and the burdens humans carry, using weighty lyrics to raise probing questions.
Its mellow sound and arrangements that consciously evoke a subtle sense of dissonance make this message-driven track all the more striking.
Released on YouTube in June 2019, this work is Vaundy’s first original song as an artist.
It was also included on a CD released exclusively at a self-organized live show the same year, and was performed at a no-audience solo concert at Shibuya CLUB QUATTRO in August 2020.
It’s a recommended listen when you want to think deeply about how to live and your relationship with society, or when you wish to reexamine the meaning of life.
It gently stays close to the listener’s heart and will evoke profound empathy.
Japanese Masterpieces That Sing of Sorrow (31–40)
Goodbyeofukōsu
The Showa-era classic “Sayonara” is a ballad by Off Course, the band led by Kazumasa Oda.
What’s astonishing is Oda’s singing voice.
The delicate, soaring tone that remains almost unchanged from then to now can only be described as miraculous.
footprint(s)Kobukuro
A song that gently weaves a farewell to a beloved presence.
Looking back on days spent with a cherished dog, it portrays with warmth the traces that presence left on the heart, even as it accepts an eternal parting.
Its acoustic sound and melody offer comfort to the feelings of pet loss—an experience many may face.
Included on Kobukuro’s album “QUARTER CENTURY,” released in September 2024, this piece gives courage to move forward: to carry the sorrow of losing a loved one while never forgetting gratitude for the time shared.
It is a song that will bring deep empathy and healing to those who have lost a precious family member.
budKobukuro
Kobukuro’s “Tsubomi” is a classic that every Japanese person knows.
With this song, the duo won numerous awards and cemented their standing.
No matter when or how many times you listen, it’s a sad yet beautiful ballad.
Their captivating vocals are also a highlight.
single bedSha ran Q
Sharan Q’s “Single Bed” is the smash hit that catapulted them to nationwide fame.
The song mournfully weaves lingering feelings for a departed lover and memories of their time together into the motif of a single bed.
It can be described as a heartbreak song.
Tears of MagnoliaSutādasuto☆Rebyū
There are few songs as heartrending and sorrowful as Stardust Revue’s “Magnolia’s Tears.” Sung in remembrance of a beloved person who has passed away, this song is filled with the grief and hardship of those left behind.
The superb vocals are absolutely outstanding.