Breakup songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: timeless hits to heal the heart

SAYONARAORANGE RANGE

ORANGE RANGE『SAYONARA』MV

This song weaves a heartrending melody of acoustic guitar and strings, expressing lingering feelings for a former lover.

While fusing rock and hip-hop—the hallmark of ORANGE RANGE—it’s crafted with a ballad sensibility, resulting in a gem that runs over six minutes.

Released in October 2006, it was also included on the album “ORANGE RANGE.” Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Teppan Shoujo Akane!!,” it offers a heartwarming message of newfound hope after a breakup and gratitude for the time shared together.

It’s a perfect track for relaxed karaoke sessions with fans or for reflecting on memories with someone special.

tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

It’s a painfully honest story song that realistically portrays heartbreak.

Over more than six minutes, post-breakup emotions are carefully traced alongside the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar.

A pack of cigarettes left behind by an ex becomes the trigger for recalling the time they spent together, and looking back, only regret remains—such a bittersweet inner landscape is woven through Koresawa’s delicate vocals.

Released in March 2017, just before her major-label debut, this piece can be considered a culmination of her work.

It’s also included on the album “Korekara,” where it continues to be loved.

The melodious, straightforward lyrics are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

On nights when you want to face your own feelings, try singing it at karaoke.

In that caseMacaroni Enpitsu

Macaroni Empitsu "Saraba" Music Video

A narrative masterpiece by Macaroni Enpitsu that wraps a bittersweet longing for love in the refreshing tones of guitar and synthesizer.

While gently embracing the pain of heartbreak, the unshaken desire to believe in the other person’s dreams stirs the heart.

The melodic lines and Hattori’s emotionally rich vocals beautifully capture the warmth and ache of youth.

Released in January 2025 as the opening theme for the second cour of the TV anime Blue Box, it weaves unattainable love and a growing inner world together with the anime’s atmosphere.

A gem of a song that stands with everyone who knows the joy of love and the pain of heartbreak, soothing the soul.

To you who didn’t choose meKoresawa

Koresawa “To You Who Didn’t Choose Me” [Music Video]

This is a quintessential Koresawa number that poppily portrays the pain of heartbreak, lingering feelings, and wishes for the other person.

Released in February 2025 as the lead track from the album “To the You Who Chose Me, and the You Who Didn’t.” It features a catchy melody and lyrics that express the emotions of a breakup in a straightforward yet cute way.

The positivity and strength hidden beneath the sadness create a song that resonates with listeners.

It will be your ally when you’re trying to move on from heartbreak!

LAST CHRISTMASEXILE

EXILE 3JSB FNS Music Festival 2015 Last Christmas

It’s a song where EXILE covered a classic by Wham! in Japanese, and since it might already feel nostalgic, I think it’s a hidden gem.

It’s very straightforward, and I believe it’s a song about thinking of an ex-girlfriend.

The overall vibe of the song comes across as very lavish and polished.

YOUYUI

YUI YOU Acoustic Solo/Cover [chakotan15]

If someone sang it this beautifully and lyrically, even the scars on my heart might heal a little.

Breakup songs often dwell on lingering feelings—still loving someone yet unable to forget them.

That’s precisely why such a beautiful melody shines.

I became a fool after meeting you.Team Kamiuta

[Team Kamiuta] I Became a Fool After Meeting You [Hatsune Miku]

A work by Team Kamiuta sung by Miku.

True to its on-the-nose yet familiar title, the lyrics prompt you to reflect on yourself in various ways.

The way hope and expectations are crushed by an unattainable reality, and the blunt self-awareness of having ‘become a fool,’ feels somewhat painful.