A tear-jerking breakup song that washes the pain away with tears

To you who didn’t choose meKoresawa

Koresawa “To You Who Didn’t Choose Me” [Music Video]

This is a quintessential Koresawa number that poppily portrays the pain of heartbreak, lingering feelings, and wishes for the other person.

Released in February 2025 as the lead track from the album “To the You Who Chose Me, and the You Who Didn’t.” It features a catchy melody and lyrics that express the emotions of a breakup in a straightforward yet cute way.

The positivity and strength hidden beneath the sadness create a song that resonates with listeners.

It will be your ally when you’re trying to move on from heartbreak!

tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

It’s a painfully honest story song that realistically portrays heartbreak.

Over more than six minutes, post-breakup emotions are carefully traced alongside the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar.

A pack of cigarettes left behind by an ex becomes the trigger for recalling the time they spent together, and looking back, only regret remains—such a bittersweet inner landscape is woven through Koresawa’s delicate vocals.

Released in March 2017, just before her major-label debut, this piece can be considered a culmination of her work.

It’s also included on the album “Korekara,” where it continues to be loved.

The melodious, straightforward lyrics are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

On nights when you want to face your own feelings, try singing it at karaoke.

Tearful KissSazan Ōrusutāzu

Tearful Kiss

A bittersweet yet beautiful melody that seeps into the heart, this ballad delicately portrays the protagonist’s sorrow and lingering feelings as they face a breakup with a lover.

The emotionally rich vocals woven by Southern All Stars, together with a simple instrumental arrangement, convey the pain of heartbreak with striking clarity.

Released in July 1992, it drew major attention as the theme song for the drama “Zutto Anata ga Suki Datta.” It became Southern All Stars’ first million-selling single and won the Excellence Award at the 34th Japan Record Awards.

Whether you’re seeking to heal the sadness of parting or reminiscing about past love, this song gently stays by your side—and continues to be a source of comfort for many to this day.

pinkshaitoopu

pink

This song could be considered a quintessential heart-wrenching breakup ballad.

The delicate vocals seep into your heart.

It carefully portrays the complex emotions of a woman who realizes her lover’s betrayal yet still can’t forget them.

The lyrics convey a longing to cling to happy memories of the past.

Released in February 2023, the track’s lyrics are also compelling for their sense of urban loneliness, with scenes like looking down over the city from a rooftop.

It’s a song that offers comfort to those bearing the pain of heartbreak or who have experienced losing someone dear.

It’s especially recommended for listening alone at night.

roomshaitoopu

Shayteop - Room (Official Music Video)

This song portrays the aching emotions of a sleepless night in a room lit by a shaded lamp.

Written in tears by Shytoop’s vocalist So Sasaki, based on a real heartbreak, it delicately expresses regret for a lost love, shared memories, and the inability to forget the other person.

The track begins with quiet guitar arpeggios and gradually builds in emotional intensity, leaving a strong impression.

The protagonist’s inner world—where “what if” hypotheticals and lingering attachment intersect—is something anyone who has experienced heartbreak can relate to.

Released as a digital single in June 2022, the song was also included on the album Hors d’œuvre, released in February 2024.

It’s a warmly consoling piece that offers comfort to those carrying the pain of a breakup or parting with someone dear.

single bedSha ran Q

Sharam Q “Single Bed” (Music Video)

A melodious ballad that poignantly portrays the feelings of a man who, after heartbreak, can’t bring himself to step into a new love.

The single bed etched with memories of his beloved now stands as a symbol of lonely solitude.

The simple, everyday happiness they once shared, and the aching longing for someone who has now become distant, tighten the chest.

Released by Sharam Q in October 1994, this song was used as the ending theme for the anime D·N·A² and is also included on the album “Inferiority Complex.” It’s a song that gently supports those who are trying to move forward while looking back on a past love, and those who have experienced parting with someone dear.

AfterwordTonbokōpu

Tonbo Corp – Afterword (Music Video)

A ballad that sings of the pain of heartbreak and the courage to look ahead.

Tonbo Corp’s “Afterword” was released in January 2025.

Its poignant lyrics addressed to a former lover and the emotional resonance of the guitar touch the heart.

Vocalist Rin Yukimura’s true-to-life voice faithfully conveys the protagonist’s feelings.

It’s a warm song recommended not only for those who have experienced heartbreak, but also for anyone who wants to take even a small step forward in life.