A song I want people who have lost a beloved partner to listen to
The word mibōjin originally referred to a woman who had lost her husband.
It’s a term that isn’t used much these days, but it was originally used to refer to oneself, and it has appeared in various contexts—such as drama and movie titles, as well as song lyrics.
In this article, we’ll introduce songs we hope will be heard by those who have lost a beloved partner: women who have lost their husbands, men who have lost their wives, or anyone who has lost someone dear to them.
We’ve gathered love songs that express feelings for a loved one who has departed for heaven, as well as songs that convey messages from those who have passed on.
Please listen while thinking of your special someone.
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Songs I want people who have lost a beloved partner to listen to (41–50)
Gold ~Until We Meet Again~Utada Hikaru
Hikaru Utada’s “Gold ~Until We Meet Again~” is a song that portrays facing the absence of the person who mattered most.
The music video—in which she wanders through the city and is lifted into the night sky by a crane—was filmed in Shinjuku.
It sings of memories that never fade no matter how much time passes, comparing their brilliance to gemstones.
Her light, nimble vocals over a sound that’s both delicate and bold conjure the image of taking the first steps toward the future.
It’s not only a song of parting over someone you can no longer meet, but also a memorial piece that dreams of the day you’ll meet again.
Why not listen to it while thinking of the one you love?
Songs I Want People Who Have Lost a Beloved Partner to Hear (51–60)
Whale Beach SongAsada Atsuko
The title of this song is read as “Isana,” not “Kujira” (whale).
This is one of the words used in the Man’yōshū to refer to a whale; other kanji such as 鯨魚, 勇魚, and 伊佐魚 are also read as isana.
The lyrics express the deep sorrow of a wife who cries out with all her strength to the isana, mourning and cursing the sea that took the life of her fisherman husband.
Rock ‘n’ Roll WidowYamaguchi Momoe
The song was released in May 1980, and Momoe had already announced her retirement that March.
While Momoe has both gentle ballads and harder songs, this is her first in a rock style.
Although the title is “Widow,” the lyrics are a satirical take on a husband possessed by rock.
neon tetraYashiro Aki
A neon tetra is a type of tropical fish whose body appears to glow metallic blue like neon.
This song features a superb vocal performance by Aki Yashiro, who sings while portraying a slightly world-weary hostess.
I think both the title and the lyrics have excellent taste, but it’s a song that isn’t very well known.
Hokkai Meoto-bushiTendō Yoshimi
Those who make their living from the bounty of the sea pray for their husbands’ safe return.
Constantly battling the perils of nature, they live their lives prepared for the worst.
Though she is not a widow, this is a song about a woman’s resolve to live her life without ever remarrying.
Homebound boat from the Minato JangaraMatsunaga Hitomi
In Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, people pray for the souls of the departed during the first Obon by performing the Jangara dance accompanied by gongs and drums.
This lyric, by Satsuki Nagai from Iwaki City, won the Best New Artist Award in 2014.
It was written about the sorrowful events of March 11, when the great tsunami struck, and the line “When will your boat come home?” is heartbreaking.
I want to see you.sawada chikako
A poignant ballad marked by Chikaco Sawada’s gentle vocals that tenderly embrace the deep sorrow of losing a loved one and the aching hope of reunion.
From beautiful memories with a lover to a sudden parting—and the powerful love that still remains in the heart—are expressed through delicate lyrics and melody.
Released in June 1990, this track was single-cut from the album “I miss you.” It was used as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Tonight” and in a Nisshin Flour Mills commercial, gradually gaining attention and ultimately becoming a million-seller.
For those who have lost someone precious in life or who hold someone far away in their thoughts, it will surely resonate deeply.