Classic and popular unrequited love breakup songs

I wish you were hereLEGO BIG MORL

LEGO BIG MORL “I Wish You Were Here” Music Video

A signature song by LEGO BIG MORL, an artist gaining attention from music fans for love songs woven with a clear, mesmerizing voice.

It’s a track that frankly conveys the sorrow of not having a loved one by your side, and the music video, which portrays that scene, is also outstanding.

OrangeSMAP

Orange – SMAP (Full)

A smash hit song by SMAP, the idol group that needs no introduction as one of Japan’s best.

This love ballad captures the feelings and courage of tucking away the pain of parting with someone you love and taking a new step forward, becoming a number that has encouraged many people who’ve experienced heartbreak.

Close your eyesHirai Ken

Ayaka / “Hitomi o Tojite” Music Video (Story 3)

A hugely popular song by Ken Hirai, who became one of Japan’s leading artists with gentle tracks woven through his soaring, far-reaching high-tone voice.

The song expresses the resolve to take a step forward while tucking away memories of a former lover, and it has become an anthem of support for those nursing a broken heart.

two peopleaiko

aiko - “Futari” music video

I tell myself it’s a good thing I realized how they felt before I fell in love, and I accept the end of the romance.

This song by aiko captures that painful bravado.

Despite its up-tempo sound, it sings of the bittersweet moment when you keep getting your hopes up over the other person’s smallest gestures, only to notice their gaze is fixed on someone else.

Released in March 2008, the song reached No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart and was later used in a Hoyu commercial.

It’s also included on the album “Himitsu.” On nights when you put on a brave face even though you’re really sad, doesn’t listening to this song make you feel like someone’s right beside you saying, “I know exactly how you feel”?

the first strong spring windnishina

nishina – First Spring Storm [Official Video]

A song by Nishina that delicately depicts a poignant spring scene.

The warm tones of the acoustic guitar and a melody line that feels somehow nostalgic sink deep into the heart.

The lyrics, woven with everyday scenery and memories, resonate with each listener’s own experiences and evoke empathy.

Released in March 2023, it was featured as a song for a radiko commercial.

Seeing the lyrics that recall a love which ended without ever being confessed may make many people feel as if their hearts are being gently gripped.

Why not me?Misaka Saki

Saki Misaka – Isn’t It Fine If It’s Me (Full ver.)

This song by Saki Misaka portrays the bittersweet feelings of gradually falling in love, even though you thought you were content just staying close as a friend.

With a clear, gentle voice, she expresses the conflict of wishing for the other person’s happiness while not wanting to see them with someone else.

Released digitally in February 2021, the track was also chosen as the theme song for ABEMA’s romantic reality show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.” It’s sure to resonate with those who, despite knowing what would bring happiness, can’t let go, and who sense the other person’s feelings yet can’t bring themselves to speak up.

If there’s a “see you”Mirei Touyama

Mirei Touyama “If There Were Another Goodbye” Lyric Video

This is a bittersweet breakup song that gently wraps feelings of regret and gratitude toward a loved one in a clear, translucent voice.

Released by Mirei Toyama in August 2021, it portrays the struggle with the pain of parting while trying to find gratitude for a “once-in-a-lifetime happiness.” The hesitation over when to bring up the breakup, and the strength to be the one to finally say “thank you,” are also compelling.

As a track from the album “still,” this cover of a original song by Sorari Sawada offers quiet solace to those who must end a relationship or are suffering through a love they need to let go of.