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

In the Middle of a DreamTakao Kisugi

Yumeno Tochu

A lyrical love song that delicately portrays the themes of parting and reunion, distinguished by its gentle, melodious tone.

Takao Kisugi’s distinctive vocal style and his sister Etsuko Kisugi’s poetic lyrics blend beautifully, making it renowned as a masterpiece that deeply resonates with listeners.

Released in November 1981, it was included on the album “Yume no Tochū,” which came out in December of the same year.

The album was a major hit, reaching No.

2 on LP and No.

1 on cassette, and ranking 11th in annual sales for 1982.

The song is also famous for being covered by Hiroko Yakushimaru as the theme song for the film Sailor Suit and Machine Gun.

It’s a piece you’ll want to sing slowly at a gathering with friends or coworkers, reminiscing about memories with someone dear.

MPrincess Princess

Princess Princess “M”

This is a touching song by PRINCESS PRINCESS that sings of the bittersweet feelings after breaking up with a lover.

The lingering attachment of the protagonist is expressed through lyrics that tighten the chest.

After being included on the 1988 album “LET’S GET CRAZY,” it was released as a single the following year.

It was also used in the NHK morning drama series “Dandan,” moving the hearts of many.

For those suffering from heartbreak, and even for anyone who has lost someone dear, this song may awaken emotions deep within.

Silent EveMidori Karashima

Silent Eve / Midori Karashima

This is a heartbreak song sung by Midori Karashima, depicting the poignant feelings of a woman who decides to end a relationship against the backdrop of winter’s stillness and Christmas.

The lyrics are striking for their delicate portrayal of complex emotions—like the difficulty of remaining “just friends” and the resolve not to interfere with the other person’s life.

Released in 1990, the song was reportedly conceived with the image of quiet nights spent by women living modestly amid the glitz of the bubble era.

Karashima’s gentle, translucent voice and the sound of the piano offer tender comfort to listeners.

Even while carrying the pain of a broken heart, this is a song that may give you the courage to take a new step forward.

Good-bye, My LoveAnn Lewis

Good-bye My Love ’91

A sweet, heartrending breakup song that transcends the boundaries between rock and kayōkyoku.

Ann Lewis’s clear, translucent vocals beautifully capture the pain of the moment of parting.

Released in July 1974, this track became her first hit single.

It paints scenes of a farewell on a street corner and the lingering inability to forget a lover’s gestures and warmth, all carried by a melody that resonates in the heart.

This song is recommended for times when you want to look back on a past romance or when you’re trying to move on from someone special.

It will surely stay close to your heart.

Time goes byEvery Little Thing

「Time goes by」MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

This is a song by Every Little Thing that captures the bittersweet emotions after a heartbreak.

It reflects on a past relationship, expressing self-reflection while conveying that feelings for the other person still remain.

The relatable imagery resonates deeply.

Used as the theme song for the drama “Amai Kekkon” (“Sweet Marriage”), it touched many hearts.

Released in February 1998, it reached No.

2 on the Oricon chart.

It has since been included on best-of albums and anniversary live recordings, and continues to be loved over time.

It’s a recommended track for when you want to heal the pain of a breakup or look back on memories with someone special.

Lingering SnowPrincess Kaguya

Kaguyahime – Nagori Yuki (Official Audio)

It’s a classic song that beautifully portrays springtime in Japan.

The scene of parting on a snowy station platform resonated with many people.

It was included on Kaguya-hime’s album “Sankaidate no Uta” and released in March 1974.

Iruka’s cover version was also a major hit, reportedly selling a total of 800,000 copies.

Loved for many years as a song people want to hear in the season of farewells, it continues to endure.

The model for the setting is Tsukumi City in Oita Prefecture, hometown of Shozo Ise, and at Tsukumi Station the melody is used when trains arrive and depart.

It’s surely a song that will touch the hearts of those who have experienced parting in a place full of memories.

ShipwreckAkina Nakamori

Nanpasen (2014 Remaster)

This is a poignant song by Akina Nakamori that sings of the pain of heartbreak and loneliness.

The lyrics convey lingering feelings for a former lover and the inner conflict of ending a relationship.

With a voice that resonates deeply with listeners, it speaks for those trying to overcome the anguish of a broken heart.

Released in September 1987, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and won numerous awards, including the Japan Record Award Gold Prize.

When you want to soothe a heart wounded by lost love, listening to this song might make you feel a little lighter, knowing you’re not alone.