Tear-jerking love songs: classic and popular hits from Japanese music

AiokuriThe STROBOSCOPE

“Aiokuri” (from the film “The 100th Love with You”) Short PV

This is a song that was performed on stage by the in-film band The STROBOSCOPE in the movie The 100th Love With You, starring Kentaro Sakaguchi and miwa.

Kentaro Sakaguchi plays the guitar, even sings, and does harmonies as well.

If you call it loveUru

[Official] Uru “If You Call That Love” — Theme song for the TBS Sunday Theater drama “My Family”

A gem-like ballad by Uru that gently sings of the resolve to “never lose again the precious things you only realize after they’re gone.” Rather than dwelling on the pessimism of loss, it puts forward a positive feeling—reaffirming what’s truly important through the experience of losing it.

Included on the album “Contrast,” released in February 2023, it drew wide attention as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “My Family.” Why not casually sing it to someone you love?

Flower of loveAimyon

ai no hana

Hit-maker Aimyon crafted the theme song for the serial TV drama Ranman to feel like a springtime stroll.

Carried by the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar, it unfolds a magical world where feelings for a loved one blossom into flowers.

Released in April 2023, the song has become emblematic of Aimyon’s musical career.

With the line “Tears are for tomorrow,” her voice sings hope for flowers that will bloom someday, offering comfort to every listener.

It’s a track anyone can layer their own story onto—those hurt by love, those thinking of someone precious.

Surely, a flower of love will bloom in your heart, too.

GoodCHANMINA

Good

Rapper Chanmina, who commands three languages and has gained support from the younger generation with her impactful rap, is making waves.

“Good,” the opening track of her fourth album, Naked, features a relaxed beat and a breezy, light sound that feels great.

The lyrics, which capture her present-tense feelings toward a former lover, will likely resonate with many who’ve experienced that complexity.

It’s a sentimental, heart-wrenching number with a uniquely floating, atmospheric vibe.

Goodbye to youKaneyori Masaru

Kaneyori Masaru [Goodbye to You] Music Video

Kaneyori Masaru is a three-piece rock band whose name was chosen because using a person’s name felt familiar and easy to think of.

Their song “Kimi ni Sayonara,” released on October 18, 2023, makes a strong impression with an opening defined by a wistful vocal and guitar sound.

The lyrics, which depict the complex emotions after a breakup, evoke a realism that can’t be summed up as simply sad or lonely.

It’s a melancholic number whose sentimental melody stirs the heart.

KanadeSukima Switch

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This is Sukima Switch’s second single, released in 2004.

The song was featured as an insert track in the film “Rough,” and a rearranged version titled “Kanade for One Week Friends” was adopted as the theme song for this year’s film “One Week Friends.”

Super Ultra I LOVE YOUCentimillimental

Centimillimental “Super Ultra I LOVE YOU” Music Video

A song by Centimillimental that sings a passionate love confession.

Chosen as the theme song for the film “Given: Hiiragi mix,” it was released for early streaming in January 2024.

Its up-tempo rhythm, guitar sound, and powerful vocals blend beautifully, stirring the listener’s heart.

The lyrics, which express feelings of love in a straightforward way, portray a range of captivating emotions and the blindness of love—making you nod in recognition.

When you want to honestly convey your feelings to someone important but feel too shy to put them into words… listening to this track might be just what you need.