Emotional tracks perfect for a drive; road trip songs that deepen your memories.
There are all kinds of songs you can play on a drive, but choosing the right ones can be tough.
Ideally, you want to pick tracks that suit the person you’re with and the situation, so the music truly fits the drive.
In this article, we’re focusing on songs that carry an emotional vibe.
We’ll pick out “emo” tracks based on recent hits.
Whether you’re alone, with friends, family, or a partner—how about heading home with songs that bring back memories from the day or the past? Music has the power to elevate the atmosphere, so enjoy your driving time with these wonderful tracks.
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Emotional tracks perfect for a drive. Drive songs that deepen the memories (11–20)
Dried flowersYuuri
Singer-songwriter Yuuri, who gained popularity among listeners through street performances, released his beloved signature song “Dry Flower” in 2020.
The song portrays a farewell with someone precious with whom he shared irreplaceable days, expressing the turmoil of a wavering heart.
His emotional vocals, paired with a warm band arrangement, convey a wealth of feelings.
It’s a perfect ballad for the ride home after a day out or a sunset drive.
I can’t forget it.Sakanakushon
A pop number with a sound that evokes 80s kayōkyoku and New Music and nostalgic melodies that grab your heart.
Included on the album “834.194,” released in June 2019, it also drew attention as the song used in a SoftBank TV commercial.
Packed with the meticulous craftsmanship unique to Sakanaction, the track is also known for the story that vocalist Ichiro Yamaguchi developed as many as 150 lyric drafts before finalizing them.
It’s perfect for a night-drive date taking in the city lights, or for those times when you want to cruise while feeling a bit sentimental.
I Need U BackFuji Kaze
A powerful number that relights the flame of passion in a burned-out heart.
A track from Fujii Kaze’s third album, “Prema,” released in September 2025.
Its sound evokes late-’80s to early-’90s R&B, and the lyrics—charged with a strong resolve to reclaim one’s energy—leave listeners feeling refreshingly uplifted.
It’s the perfect song for when you want to hit reset.
Summer MemoriesKetsumeishi
When it comes to summer drives, this classic has to be the one.
Released in July 2003 as their 10th single, it’s also included on the acclaimed album Ketsunopolis 3.
A mellow track fused with smooth, feel-good rap, it vividly brings back the scenes and fleeting emotions of seasons spent with friends.
It’s the perfect number to play while cruising along a coastal road or during lively trips with your crew.
melodramanatori & imase
A gem of a driving song where wistfulness and warmth coexist.
The retro-pop number woven by the gentle vocals of Natori and imase beautifully captures a nostalgic worldview.
Created to commemorate Nissan Motor’s 90th anniversary, the piece portrays the loneliness after a farewell—symbolized by the empty passenger seat—and the lingering attachment to the time spent together.
Released on August 30, 2024, it also drew attention as the theme song for Nissan’s 90th anniversary film, “NISSAN LOVE STORY.” It’s a heartwarming track that accompanies late-night drives while gazing at the city lights, or quiet moments when you want to linger in memories.
I hope it’s sunny.DREAMS COME TRUE
A gentle, lyrical song that weaves together childhood memories and growth.
Released by DREAMS COME TRUE in October 1992, this piece captured the hearts of many as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Hirari.
Warm memories of time spent with family in nature—like hiking in the mountains and playing in streams—are portrayed over a calm melody.
The transition from being a child supported by her father to becoming independent and supporting her own family now is especially striking.
Included on the album The Swinging Star, the song evokes the landscapes of Miwa Yoshida’s hometown, Ikeda in Hokkaido, and is perfect for a springtime drive, sure to lift your spirits.
Emotional songs you’ll want to play on a drive. Drive tracks that deepen your memories (21–30)
cream sodaSUPERCAR
This song portrays emotions swaying between the fleeting nature of youth and the realities of life.
As SUPERCAR’s debut single, it’s marked by a refreshing sound that fuses shoegaze and guitar pop, and by wistful lyrics that weave together dreams and longing.
Koji Nakamura’s delicate melodies intertwine with Junji Ishiwatari’s poetic words, gently resonating in the heart.
Released by Epic Records Japan in September 1997, it was also included on the album Three Out Change.
It’s a track with a peculiar charm that can summon nostalgic memories when you listen to it during a drive, at dusk, or in those slightly melancholic moments.