Classic Western songs about regret. Recommended popular tracks.

Song for the DumpedBen Folds Five

Ben Folds Five – Song for the Dumped

Ben Folds Five is a three-piece band from the United States, known for their piano-driven sound.

The Japanese title of this work is “Give Me My Money Back.” In this case, the Japanese title faithfully reflects the song’s content: essentially, “Give back all the money I’ve spent on you!!” While most people wouldn’t actually do such a thing, there are surely men who, in a heated moment, might think that way.

It was released in 1997.

Best Thing I Never HadBeyoncé

Beyoncé – Best Thing I Never Had (Video)

I don’t think a Japanese person could write this song.

It sounds like they’re thanking the person they broke up with, but they’re not at all—they’re casually throwing in words of resentment.

And yet there’s nothing messy about it, and in the end they thank God.

I think it’s interesting and a good song.

Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest WordBlue

Blue Featuring Elton John – Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word

They are a British dance-vocal group.

They have a mature coolness and are great singers—perhaps similar to EXILE in Japan.

It’s a song about not being able to say words of apology, no matter what.

The emotions are poured into the vocals, and listening to it can bring you to tears.

Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest WorldBlue Featuring Elton John

Blue Featuring Elton John – Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word

The original is by Elton John, and the Japanese title is “Ballad of Sorrow.” Blue’s cover version was released in 2002.

It’s a beautifully melancholic broken-heart ballad that really touches the heart.

The music video where the original creator, Elton, and Blue sing the song together is simple and elegant.

When I Was Your ManBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – When I Was Your Man (Official Music Video)

It’s a song about regretting after a breakup, thinking “If only I had done this, if only I had done that.” I’m not sure if there are really men who think they were that much at fault, but if the other person felt that way, a woman might feel a little happy.

It also makes me a bit curious about why such a kind person had to break up with his girlfriend.

When I Was Your ManBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – When I Was Your Man (Official Music Video)

Many listeners must have found their eyes welling up when they heard the emotionally charged chorus.

It’s far too late now, no matter how much I regret it, but the person I am today could throw away that worthless pride and cherish you.

That feeling comes through directly to the listener.

Hard To Say I’m SorryCHICAGO

miwa / When Spring Comes – Solo Acoustic (Rin, 14 years old)

Some of you may have heard a cover version by a Japanese artist.

It’s a song by Chicago, the popular band from the United States.

It was released in 1982.

As the title suggests, the lyrics express the regret of not being able to be honest with someone you love.