A song of forbidden love. A heartrending, sorrowful love song.
A forbidden love you can’t tell anyone about.
If you’re reading this article, perhaps you’re experiencing a similar kind of love.
If so, there are probably many painful moments.
I’ve gathered some songs I want you to hear.
They capture the pain of falling for someone who already has a lover or partner and feeling lost, or knowing it won’t come true yet being unable to give up.
When things are tough, try finding one song that stays close to your feelings.
Like when someone listens to you, it might make your heart feel just a little lighter.
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Songs of forbidden love. Heart-wrenching, sad love songs (41–50)
impure loveRiu Domura
A gem of a love song by Riu Domura that powerfully conveys the pain and poignancy of a love you can’t tell anyone about.
It delicately portrays the feelings of a woman who, despite having been with the one she loves, ends up feeling even more alone.
Depicting the struggle of a woman who suffers in a convenient relationship yet cannot cut off her feelings for the other person, the track was released in January 2024, later included on the album “Irregular Diary,” and has become a fan favorite performed live.
It’s a song we especially recommend to those who have been hurt by love or are currently tormented by an unrequited relationship.
A triangular lovesaji
A saji song that portrays the pain of unrequited love with a heart-wrenching voice and delicate words.
The aching feelings of being unable to hold back one’s love are expressed with striking directness.
Many listeners will inevitably relate to the narrator’s position—unable to become a lover yet continuing to harbor unwavering affection.
Included on their second mini-album Hanabi no Uta, released in September 2020, the track became a hit through TikTok.
The arrangement, featuring live strings, further enhances the song’s appeal.
It’s a piece that offers solace to anyone who has experienced heartbreak or unrequited love—or is struggling with it right now.
just a littleHaru Igarashi
A song whose heartrending, soul-stirring vocals move every listener.
With delicate wording, it weaves a poignant love swayed by the whims of fate—encounters that come at the wrong time.
Haru Igarashi is a singer-songwriter with the unusual background of being a former police officer.
Released in March 2024, this work has drawn major attention, topping the Billboard JAPAN Heatseekers Songs chart for two consecutive weeks.
The line about pretending to like what the other person likes just to stay by their side is so earnest it tightens the chest.
Tokyo Double SuicideAzusa River
A track that grips the heart with the cries of souls seeking salvation in a dark, cold metropolis.
While seething with fierce anger and nihilism toward modern society, the protagonist’s hunger for true love is woven with powerful lyricism.
Released as a digital single in September 2024, this work was carefully crafted over the course of more than a year through the collaboration of Ms.
Azusagawa and Mr.
Yoshihisa Hirata, with whom she has long been acquainted.
Set against the backdrop of a ruined Tokyo night, this love story will quietly and deeply resonate with those who feel loneliness and emptiness in the city.
Gimmick GameKazunari Ninomiya
Depicting betrayal and mind games between a man and a woman, this song leaves a strong impression with its provocative lyrics and seductive melody.
Told from a female perspective, the lyrics intertwine suspicion toward the other person with the singer’s own wavering emotions, unsettling the listener.
Included on the first-press limited edition of the album “Dream “A” live,” it also drew attention for having lyrics and music written by Kazunari Ninomiya.
With its mysterious aura, it’s recommended when you want to immerse yourself in a world that stirs the emotions.
usmilet
A heartrending love song by milet that earnestly sings about cherishing the present moment, even while feeling anxious about possibly losing a relationship by confessing one’s feelings.
She conveys the interplay of courage and fear in taking a step forward through her signature husky voice.
Born from the album “us,” released in August 2019, this track also perfectly captures the world of the NTV Wednesday drama “Fake Affair,” for which it served as the theme song.
It gently accompanies those who struggle to express their feelings honestly to someone, or who hesitate out of a desire not to change a precious relationship.
What Is Your Secret?Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE
A heart-stirring love ballad that delicately portrays the hidden secrets of everyday life.
It’s a song by Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE, selected as the theme for the drama “Forest” starting in February 2025.
The drama stars group member Takanori Iwata.
The beautiful melody and profound emotional expression are striking, depicting the transformation of a once-peaceful relationship between lovers.
Its smooth, R&B-tinged tone draws you in.
Many listeners will surely relate to the complex feelings where doubt and trust toward a loved one intersect.