[Remembering the Pain of Love…] Breakup Songs Recommended for People in Their 60s

MissingToshinobu Kubota

Toshinobu Kubota – Missing [Official Video Short ver.]

A song that reflects the pain of a heartbreaking breakup is included on Toshinobu Kubota’s first album, “SHAKE IT PARADISE.” It portrays lingering feelings and regrets for a former lover, as well as the struggle to move forward, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in September 1986, this track has long been cherished as one of Kubota’s signature works.

It was also used as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “World Pro Wrestling.” This piece is perfect for those trying to overcome the pain of lost love or for anyone wishing to reminisce about a past romance.

With unforgettable lyrics and melody, it just might soothe your heart too.

Mary AnnTHE ALFEE

Mary Ann

A classic youth anthem that beautifully fuses bittersweet romance with an energetic rock sound.

Released in June 1983, this track became THE ALFEE’s first major hit, reaching No.

7 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and No.

30 on the year-end ranking.

It later climbed to No.

3 on The Best Ten.

Riding this success, the band made their first appearance at the 34th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen at the end of 1983.

Also included on the album ALFEE’S LAW, the song has remained a beloved staple of THE ALFEE’s live performances.

With romantic lyrics woven together in perfect balance with hard rock, this piece is a must-listen for anyone cherishing a secret love.

Let's start from goodbyeMotoharu Sano

Let's Start from Goodbye - Goodby Kara Hajimeyo / Motoharu Sano / cover by Hiroko Williams, sung by Hiroko Williams

A slow ballad with elegantly resonant strings that poignantly captures the moment of parting.

It’s said to be a song Motoharu Sano wrote and composed during his high school years.

The contrast between those who wave goodbye and the protagonist who cannot brings the lonely heart that struggles to accept the farewell vividly into focus.

Released in March 1983 as his 10th single, it was also included on the album No Damage, released in April of the same year.

Its steadily unfolding, lyrical melody quietly accompanies anyone who has experienced a departure or a goodbye, and is sure to evoke deep empathy.

And then I'm at a lossYoshiyuki Osawa

And then I'm at a loss

This eternal heartbreak song that captures the very moment of parting strikes the heart through Yoshiyuki Osawa’s husky voice.

The complex emotions and helplessness after a lover leaves the room are portrayed with delicate nuance.

Natsuo Giniro’s poetic lyrics blend beautifully with the sophisticated melody that incorporates elements of R&B.

Released in September 1984 and peaking at No.

6 on the Oricon weekly chart, the track was included on the album “CONFUSION” and also drew attention as a commercial song for Nissin Cup Noodles.

In 2023, a newly arranged version was used as the ending theme for the film “And Then I Drifted Away,” starring Taisuke Fujigaya, bringing the song to a new generation.

It’s a piece that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.

AloneMayo Okamoto

Mayo Okamoto “ALONE” Music Video

Mayo Okamoto’s third single delicately sings of the complex emotions of a woman whose boyfriend was taken by her friend.

Beneath her show of bravado lies profound loneliness and a heartrending longing for the one she loves—feelings that strike a deep chord.

Released in November 1996, it reached No.

10 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It’s a gem of a ballad you’ll want to listen to quietly when you wish to reflect on the pain of heartbreak and the subtleties of human relationships.

Lonely Way of the WindKiyotaka Sugiyama

Kiyotaka Sugiyama – Kazeno Lonely Way [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A masterpiece that portrays urban loneliness and hope for the future, with a crystal-clear singing voice that resonates deep in the heart.

Like a breeze sweeping through an unfamiliar street corner, this solo work by Kiyotaka Sugiyama beautifully sings of feelings for a former lover.

It carries a profound message that even after parting with someone important, past memories never fade and continue to sustain the heart.

Released in January 1988, the song captured the hearts of many viewers as the theme for “Tuesday Suspense Theater” and reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

Its lyrics, which express a refreshing resignation and the courage to look forward, will surely kindle a quiet light in the hearts of those seeking to overcome the pain of heartbreak.

I can't stop this sadnessAnri

I can’t stop the sorrow — I CAN’T STOP THE LONELINESS

A gem of a love song by Anri that conveys the poignant emotions of a woman whose boyfriend has been taken by her best friend, expressed through an urbane melody and sophisticated arrangement.

With her warm vocal timbre and graceful singing, your heart aches for the heroine who loses both her lover and her friend at once.

Released in November 1983, the song was issued as an advance single from the album “Timely!!” and reached No.

4 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Bolstered by its tie-in with a Shiseido commercial, it generated a huge response.

It’s a song that stays close to your heart when you want to heal the pain of a breakup—something everyone experiences at least once—while reflecting the complicated feelings stirred by the evolving relationship between friend and lover.