A melancholic “yami” song that was a hit in the 2000s. A bittersweet track.
Everyone must have experienced it at least once.
In those moments when you feel like your heart is about to break, a lyric or melody suddenly reaches your ears and, in a mysterious way, resonates with you and lifts you up.
The 2000s in particular were a tumultuous era when the way we enjoyed music changed dramatically.
Amid the shift from CDs to online distribution, countless “yami songs” (songs that grapple with darkness or emotional pain) were born, and they still support many people’s hearts today.
Lyrics you can’t help but relate to, melodies that pierce the chest.
Let yourself sink into that bittersweet feeling, along with the nostalgic memories of those days.
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Yami songs that were hits in the 2000s. Heart-wrenching tracks (41–50)
Rain again todayKurahashi Yoeko
They weren’t the type to appear frequently in mass media, but if you’re going to talk about the “dark” songs of Japanese pop in the 2000s, they’re indispensable.
They debuted in 2000 and retired from singing in 2008.
With a distinctive sound described as “jazz kayō” (jazz-inflected Japanese popular song), they gained popularity and remained a beloved singer-songwriter within 2000s internet culture, including on Nico Nico Douga.
Yami songs that were hits in the 2000s. Heartbreaking tracks (51–60)
MissingELLEGARDEN
Formed in 1998.
Made their indie debut in 2001, and achieved their U.S.
debut in 2006, proving their talent.
They went on hiatus in 2008 to much regret.
This is their fourth single, released in 2004.
The lyrics are in English, and the nostalgic themes about youth may resonate with a heart worn down by loneliness.
By the way, vocalist Takeshi Hosomi is still active with the HIATUS and MONOEYES.
It’s also recommended to check those out if you haven’t in a while.
seedGO!GO!7188
They made their indie debut in 2000 and major-label debut in 2006.
A three-piece band that disbanded in 2012.
When you think of female-vocal rock that defined the 2000s, many people probably think of this band.
Yuu (Yumi Nakashima), who handled vocals and guitar, is still active as the frontwoman of Chirinuruwowaka.
Akko, who handled vocals, bass, and lyrics, released two solo albums under the name Akiko Hamada and is now active under the name Noma Akiko.
SetsunarensaRADWIMPS
Debuted in 2003.
RADWIMPS continues to enjoy unwavering popularity, including recording a massive hit with the 2016 film Your Name’s theme song, “Zenzenzense.” Frontman Yojiro Noda is also active as an actor.
This is their eighth single, released in 2006.
Immerse yourself in the hard-hitting English rap lyrics and the heartrending words that stir your emotions.
Ultramarine of a Certain TownASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
Formed in 1996.
Made their major-label debut in 2003.
In 2004, Rewrite, which was used as the opening theme for the anime Fullmetal Alchemist, became a massive hit.
This is their ninth single, released in 2006.
It was written specifically as the theme song for the animated film Tekkonkinkreet, and incorporates the line from the movie, “What can you see from there?” into the lyrics.
It’s a meticulously crafted track that includes the sounds of crowds recorded in Kabukicho in its intro and outro.
Both the film and the original manga come highly recommended.
Hammer Song and the Tower of PainBUMP OF CHICKEN
They made their major debut in 2000.
With their second single “Tentai Kansoku,” released in 2001, becoming a massive hit, it’s no exaggeration to call them one of the defining rock bands of the 2000s.
This is a hidden gem included on their fifth album, “orbital period.” The song also gained popularity in 2000s internet culture, with MAD videos created on Nico Nico Douga.
YUMEGIWA LAST BOYSUPERCAR
They made their major debut in 1997 and disbanded in 2005.
This is the theme song of the 2002 film “Ping Pong.” Its melancholic yet dreamlike sound and unique floating sensation are captivating.
I also recommend the film itself, which is about overcoming the setbacks of youth.
Recommended for those who are feeling worn down and on the verge of giving up on their dreams.