Classic and popular unrequited love breakup songs

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.

I don’t want to see you; I want to see you.Ueno Yūka

Yuka Ueno “Don’t Want to See You, Want to See You” Music Video

A ballad by Yuuka Ueno that sets painfully bittersweet scenes of heartbreak—so vivid they make your chest ache just remembering—against a simple, piano-led melody.

Six months after the breakup, the protagonist’s heart is still tangled in conflicting emotions born from being unable to forget their former lover: aching to see them, yet not wanting to.

Included on the January 2019 album “Sukina Hito wa Anata datta” (“You Were the One I Loved”), this song is sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has gone through a breakup and still hasn’t sorted out their feelings.

When they suddenly come to mind in a quiet moment, why not listen to this track and face your true feelings?

MissingKubota Toshinobu

Toshinobu Kubota – Missing [Official Video Short ver.]

A smash hit by Toshinobu Kubota, an artist loved across generations and genders for his overwhelming musical sensibility and performances that resonate with listeners’ hearts.

With straightforward lyrics that express a wish to return to a time of happiness, this song strikes a chord with many.

Song of LoveKōda Kumi

Kumi Koda / “Ai no Uta” (from the new album “WINTER of LOVE”)

A smash hit unrequited-love song by Kumi Koda, an artist who continues to lead Japan’s music scene with universally acclaimed, powerhouse vocals and breathtaking live performances.

This ballad, which expresses feelings for a beloved person you’ll never meet again, has become a staple heartbreak number.

evergreenŌhashi Chippoke

Ohashi Chippoke “Evergreen” Music Video

A song that sings of unwavering love warmly envelops the hearts of its listeners.

Its light, breezy melody and lyrics filled with deep affection blend beautifully, resonating with many people.

Included on the mini-album “you,” released in October 2021, it became a massive hit with over 100 million streams.

You can feel Ohashi Chippoke’s intention to express pure love throughout the entire track.

Brimming with tenderness toward a lover and a wish for happiness that lasts forever, this piece is perfect not only for those with unrequited feelings but also for anyone looking to deepen their bond with someone special.

aloneMayo Okamoto

Mayo Okamoto — alone

A signature unrequited-love song by Mayo Okamoto—an artist hugely popular among women for her naturally captivating, powerful vocals and songs that delicately express feminine emotions.

It’s a heartbreak number that portrays putting on a brave face in front of the person you loved so much, unable to confess your true feelings.

Goodbye, goodbyeTakenaka Eri

Eri Takenaka “Sayonara Sayonara arranged by Masataka Matsutoya”

This is an unrequited-love song by Eri Takenaka, an artist who has gained popularity—especially among women—for her clear, captivating high-tone voice and the gentle atmosphere of her music.

It’s a heartbreak ballad that conveys the poignant feelings of being suddenly told goodbye by a lover.