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 songs you’ll want to play on a drive. Drive tracks that deepen your memories (21–30)
ObsessedAyumu Imazu

Set to a chill, poppy melody, this track sings in English about the sweet-and-sour feeling of falling in love at first sight.
Ayumu Imazu’s laid-back vocals and the lyrics’ honest expression of affection are particularly captivating.
The understated melody line beautifully captures the confusion and unease that come with falling in love.
Released in January 2024, the song became a hot topic across Asia after many artists—including Korea’s SEVENTEEN—posted dance videos on social media.
It’s the perfect song for relaxed moments, like a morning drive, a café break, or a leisurely weekend stroll.
My WayDef Tech

This song by Def Tech is perfect for relaxing by the seaside.
Its comfortable rhythm and lyrics woven in both English and Japanese give you the courage to move forward as yourself.
It also carries a warm message that highlights the importance of bonds with friends.
The track is included on their debut album “Def Tech,” released in January 2005.
It became widely memorable as the song used in a Yokohama Tires commercial, the spring high school baseball digest program “Minna no Koshien,” and as an insert song in the film “Crows ZERO II.” Give it a listen when you’re lost in thought on a sunset beach or when you want to feel calm.
Emotional songs you’ll want to play on a drive: Drive songs that deepen memories (31–40)
The Old Man and the SeaYorushika

Beginning with gentle guitar strains, this song draws inspiration from Ernest Hemingway’s renowned novel and evokes a comforting feeling, as if you were on a quiet seaside.
Suis’s crystalline vocals seem to weave a story that transcends reality and journeys deep into the heart.
It may be centered on the inner strength of humans who refuse to lose hope even in the face of hardship.
Released in August 2021, the piece became widely known as the TV commercial song for Vanish Standard Inc.’s service “STAFF START.” It resonated with many, aligning with the commercial’s message, “A world where you don’t have to give up on what you love.” It’s perfect for moments when you want to spend time leisurely by the sea or quietly sink into contemplation—ideal listening when you’re in the mood to relax.
This is also a recommended track for those who enjoy music with literary depth.
Midsummer MomentRYUSENKEI

A mellow sound that evokes summer memories, where the warm resonance of the Rhodes piano intertwines exquisitely with Sincere’s translucent vocals.
Released as a single in May 2025, the track encapsulates the charm of the reborn RYUSENKEI by Kunimond Takiguchi and Sincere.
It comes in two formats: digital distribution and a strictly limited 7-inch vinyl.
The B-side of the vinyl includes the 2025 remix version of “Time Traveler.” Perfect for a seaside drive or a relaxed summer evening.
Amber-Hued City, Morning of Shanghai Crabskururi

This song unfolds a unique world where the bustle of the city intersects with human warmth.
Created in July 2016, it’s an ambitious work in which Quruli ventured for the first time into R&B- and hip-hop-inspired approaches.
Its nostalgic lyrics and refined orchestration weave a sonic landscape that gently embraces both the loneliness and the bonds of people living in the city.
The music video is an animated piece by Thai artist Wisut Ponnimit, whose warm style accentuates the song’s appeal.
The track has also been featured in various tie-ins, including NHK’s Minna no Uta and as the theme for the FM program Quruli Denpa.
It’s a heartfelt, emotional song recommended for those weary of urban life or wishing to reflect on their connections with loved ones.
Agate Caressed by NightAyase

A beautiful ballad from Ayase’s solo project that poignantly paints the depths of the night.
Included on the first EP, “Ghost City Tokyo,” released in November 2019, this piece vividly portrays the emotions of a man and woman who have no choice but to decide on parting from a loved one.
In a city after the last train has gone, a young man looks back on their relationship; his frustrated feelings as he senses the approaching goodbye are conveyed alongside an urban, mellow sound.
The wavering between wishing for a night with no terminus and trying to accept reality—tenderness toward the other person and a lingering regret—soaks into the heart with the melancholic melody line.
It’s a work that shines with adult sophistication and delicate emotional expression, perfect for a late-night drive or quiet time.
LonelyNulbarich

A bittersweet vocal intertwines with mellow sounds to create a song that sinks deep into the heart.
While it explores themes of loneliness and the regret of parting, the protagonist’s earnest wish to reunite with their loved one is conveyed through a sultry, alluring voice.
The captivating beat and chorus melody blend the poignancy and elegance of a mature romance.
Included on Nulbarich’s April 2021 album NEW GRAVITY, the track showcases a refined sense of groove in perfect harmony with JQ’s soulful vocals.
It’s an ideal song for a nighttime drive or for spending relaxed, intimate moments with someone special.


