[Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
It’s been quite a while since the word “emoi” became commonly used—what songs come to mind for you when you think of an emoi track?
Originally, the term came from the Western rock scene and referred to the genre known as “emo,” but these days we use “emoi” to describe songs that really hit you in the heart.
In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of deeply moving, emoi songs from a variety of angles—lyrics, instrumentation, vocals, and more.
We’ve included not only rock, but also singer-songwriter pieces and hip-hop tracks.
There are lots of emotionally stirring songs here, so be sure to read through to the end!
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[Old and New Masterpieces] Emotionally Stirring, Moving Songs (111–120)
Every day, to a heartbreaking degreeHakubi
There are plenty of emotional songs by Hakubi, the rock band formed in Kyoto.
Released in 2021, “Kanashii Hodo ni Mainichi wa” is a track that really hits you in the heart, and its appeal is packed into the lyrics.
The song portrays someone who keeps fighting and pushing forward, even while struggling, in a world where not everything goes right.
There are times when you might think, “I’m worthless…,” but listening to this song in those moments will surely move your heart and help you look ahead.
[Classic and New Masterpieces] Emotion-Stirring, Emotive Songs (121–130)
catDISH//
DISH///’s “Neko” has remained a long-running hit.
The song is also well-known for being written and composed by Aimyon.
It’s a breakup song from a male perspective, about a girl he can’t forget, and the emotion ramps up powerfully as it heads into the chorus.
Originally released in 2017 as the B-side to the single “Boku-tachi ga Yari-mashita,” it became a popular number and an acoustic version was released in 2020.
beyond; the distance; the other side; yonderOmoinotake
It’s a song released in 2021, performed by the piano rock band Omoinotake.
While its highly sophisticated atmosphere is captivating, the lyrics are filled with messages that encourage facing one’s inner self.
Listening to it makes you reflect on yourself and feel ready to move forward.
Words like “dream” and “future” also appear in the lyrics, so it’s sure to move your heart when you’re feeling a bit worn out or when you want to take a step ahead.
night skyOnda Masanori
A song I really want people to listen to when they’re missing their family or are in love is “Yozora.” It’s a track released in March 2022 by Masanori Onda, a Kyoto-born singer-songwriter who’s been trending on TikTok.
The vocals just sink deep into you.
Carried by a warm melody, the feelings gently seep in—it’s truly emotional.
You can feel an uncontrollably pure sense of longing.
It’s a song that can resonate with many situations—long-distance relationships, of course, but also the feelings a parent has for their child.
Ghost in the FlowersYorushika
I imagine many people feel sentimental when they listen to this song.
Its calm, unhurried melody makes you feel as if you’re drifting alone through the depths of your heart.
The lyrics, meanwhile, immerse you in summer memories and moments you can never get back.
Every part of it feels profoundly emotional.
It was included on Yorushika’s 2020 album “The Theft” and chosen as the theme song for the film “A Whisker Away.” It’s a perfect pick when you want to dwell on nostalgic memories or listen to a track that stirs your emotions.
Feelin’ Go(o)dFuji Kaze
An irresistible number that showcases the poppy, fantastical world of popular singer-songwriter Kaze Fujii.
Released in July 2024, this track is a collaboration with A.
G.
Cook.
It carries a message about the importance of embracing change and living positively.
The music video evokes the vibe of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
You’ll feel the emotion in its dreamy atmosphere and his gentle groove.
Packed with Fujii’s unique musical sensibility and philosophy, it’s recommended for anyone looking to face change and challenges with optimism.
A heartwarming track that will lift your spirits.
ultramarineYOASOBI
This song by YOASOBI, a popular music duo known for creating music based on novels, is a collaboration between Bourbon Alfort and the manga Blue Period.
It was created from the story text “Make Blue Your Ally,” published on Alfort’s website, which is also connected to the story of Blue Period.
The lyrics portray the struggles and passion that many experience in their youth—such as the fear of saying you love what you love, and choosing to face what you love anyway—and are sure to awaken the youthful memories sleeping deep in your heart.