“I Want to See You”: A love song that makes you cry when you listen to it while you can’t meet
We’ve put together a collection of songs overflowing with “I miss you,” perfect for someone you like, an ex you’ve broken up with, or a partner in a long-distance relationship.
They’re all tear-jerking tracks that stay close to a aching heart, so you’re sure to find a song that resonates with your feelings.
Listening to sentimental music when you’re lonely might seem like it will only make things harder, but letting yourself sink into the sadness with a song can help you sort out your emotions and maybe even look forward again.
Find the tracks that speak to your heart, and take your time listening to your inner voice about what you want to do with that “I want to see you” feeling inside you.
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[I Want to See You] Love Songs That Make You Cry When You Listen While You Can’t Meet (41–50)
Even if we're far apart (feat. WISE)Kana Nishino
Released in 2009 as her fifth single, Kana Nishino’s “Tookutemo.” The song features hip-hop musician WISE and was created after Nishino approached people on the street for a TV program and interviewed a real couple in a long-distance relationship.
It vividly portrays the emotional sway between the anxiety of not being able to meet because of the distance and the overpowering love that surpasses that anxiety.
With feelings of “I really like you” and “I love you,” we want to overcome the uncertainty, don’t we?
[I Want to See You] Love Songs That Make You Cry When You Listen While You Can't Meet (51–60)
I miss youBEGIN
It’s the debut song by BEGIN, a band from Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, and one of their signature tracks.
It portrays the regret of not being able to honestly express one’s feelings when parting from someone important, and the pain of longing that follows.
The relaxed, gentle sound evokes an image of quietly facing one’s own heart and weeping.
Because it conveys the resolve to speak honestly if given another chance to meet, the song encourages listeners to share their true feelings before they come to bear the same kind of regret.
Spring, Summer, Autumn, Wintersumika
This song delicately portrays the longing to see someone through the changing seasons.
Its gentle vocals and melody tenderly embrace feelings for someone dear.
Released in August 2018 as the ending theme for the animated feature film “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas,” it garnered significant attention for its seamless harmony with the film’s world.
When you think of someone far away, this piece accompanies the emotions that deepen with each passing season.
It’s perfect for listening alone or sharing with someone special—sure to become a song that resonates in your heart.
WithLila Ikuta
“With,” chosen as the inspiration song for the screen adaptation of Takeshi Kitano’s novel Analog, is performed by Ikuta Rira, the vocalist of YOASOBI, and was released in 2023.
Its lyrics center on the sincere feeling of “wanting to see the one you love,” intertwining with a beautifully expansive, grand melody.
Carried by her clear, transparent vocals, it’s a ballad that evokes everyday moments spent with someone precious.
When love or life isn’t going smoothly, let this song’s message be a source of comfort.
catDISH//
This song, one of the signature tracks by the band DISH// fronted by Takumi Kitamura—who’s also active as an actor—tells a story from a male perspective about being unable to let go of a former lover.
The lyrics and music were written by the popular singer-songwriter Aimyon, and her unique viewpoint makes the lyrics both heartbreaking and catchy.
“Even if my ex-girlfriend had turned into a cat, I’d still want to see her again…” If you can relate to the protagonist’s desperate feelings, this song is sure to strike a chord.
Dried flowersYuri
Dry Flower is a song that depicts the after-story of Yuri’s masterpiece Kakurenbo, which was a huge hit in 2020.
It’s a gem that rivals Kakurenbo in its own right.
This time, the lyrics are from a woman’s perspective, expressing the heartbreaking feelings of someone who chose to break up while still in love.
Many listeners may relate—loving someone but finding no other choice than to part ways.
Although she chose the breakup herself, she still desperately wants to see him.
It’s a beautifully sad love song that’s perfect for those moments.
The love song won’t stopIkimonogakari
A youthful love song by Ikimono-gakari that paints a sweet-and-sour first-love feeling.
It sings of feelings that grow stronger even when apart and a love too deep to put into words.
Imbued with a strong wish to weave a new story together, this piece was released in July 2014.
It was also used in a Calpis Water commercial and resonated with many people.
Recommended for those in long-distance relationships or those separated from someone dear.
Its message of staying connected through song will surely be there for your “I miss you” feelings.
Why not listen together and face the emotions in your heart?