Tear-jerking songs recommended for men in their 30s: classic and popular Japanese tracks

It makes me want to cry.Urufuruzu

Ulfuls – It Makes Me Want to Cry

When no matter how hard you try it just doesn’t work out, or when something happens that truly shakes your soul, this is the kind of song you’ll want to hear.

It’s a classic by Ulfuls, one of Japan’s greatest rock bands.

Tortoise Matsumoto’s soulful vocals will shout out exactly how you feel.

Perfect for when you want to sink into your feelings a bit—highly recommended.

Give it a listen!

It’s better to be offbeat.Elefanto Kashimashi

Elephant Kashimashi “It’s Better to Be Out of Step”

A single released in 2012.

It’s also known as the theme song for the film “The Floating Castle.” The content is flawless.

I think probably only he could have written it.

It grabs you right from the start.

It’s neither a heartbreak song nor a sentimental “thanks, Mom” kind of tearjerker, but if you’re an adult, you’ll surely get it.

Why did I end up falling in love with you?Tōhōshinki

Tohoshinki / Why Did I Fall in Love with You?

A song released in 2008.

It’s a love song sung from a man’s perspective.

A love that’s ending—ah, I wish he would feel this way about me when we say goodbye.

I want to be someone who stays in his memories and thoughts.

I’m sure every girl feels that way.

With its sweet vocals expanding such a world, this is a song that makes you want to close your eyes and follow the story.

TVXQ’s beautiful chorus line heightens the tale with aching passion.

On the bridgeMagokoro Burazāzu

Magokoro Brothers - On the Bridge (Copy)

The 24th single released in 2001.

Along with “Ryūsei / Distant Summer” and “This Love Hasn’t Even Begun,” it’s known as one of the “Farewell Song Trilogy,” a set of heartbreak songs.

Sometimes adults break up not because of simple reasons like liking or disliking each other.

This track overflows with a sense of helplessness.

It’ll make you cry—highly recommended!

Poem of SunlightLe Couple

Hidamari no Uta / Le Couple (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

People in their 30s are, I think, the generation that just barely listened to “Hidamari no Uta” by Le Couple in real time.

This song is filled not so much with inspiration as with sadness.

If possible, listen to it while savoring the lyrics sheet, and it will move you to tears even more.

Time goes byEvery Little Thing

「Time goes by」MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

Time goes by by Every Little Thing, released in 1998.

Even though you became lovers with the person you like, you end up arguing and hurting each other.

Romance isn’t all fun—there are many times when things don’t go well.

Still, it conveys a message of wanting to cherish the days that have passed.

A Tiny Bit of CourageFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 'A Tiny Bit of Courage'

Released in 2007, “Chippoke na Yuuki” was a milestone song for FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, achieving their then-highest position of No.

8 on the Oricon chart.

Many people in their 30s will fondly remember Tomohiro Waki being featured on the cover and in the music video, and for those who’ve spent a fair number of years in the working world, the lyrics that unexpectedly stir the heart are sure to make you want to belt it out at karaoke.

True to FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ straightforward melodies, there’s nothing particularly difficult, but the fast sections that incorporate rap-like vocals typical of 2000s J-pop can be sung smoothly if you memorize the lyrics well beforehand.

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