Emotional songs from the Heisei era. Nostalgic tracks that really hit you.
We’re introducing some emo songs from the Heisei era that feel a bit nostalgic and hit you right in the feels!
The word “emo” has gone beyond the realm of music and come to be used for expressing all kinds of emotions.
Since its boom around 2018—right before the Reiwa era—some people might associate emo songs with the chill vibe of that time.
Here, we’ve picked out tracks released during the Heisei era that carry that emo feel.
We’re featuring songs that saw a revival through social media, tunes that bring back youthful memories, and tracks that wrap you in a sentimental mood.
Be sure to find the songs that match your own sense of “emo.”
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Emo Songs of the Heisei Era: Nostalgic, Heart-Tugging Tracks (51–60)
NonfictionHirai Ken
A heartfelt message song born from the experience of losing a close friend.
Ken Hirai’s powerful vocals portray the longing for a lost life and the wish to meet again, with a voice that stirs the soul.
Since its release in June 2017, this medium-tempo ballad has resonated with many.
Created as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Little Giant,” its delicate, acoustic guitar–based arrangement harmonizes beautifully with the drama’s worldview.
The lyrics probe deeply into the meaning of life and gently embrace life’s struggles and setbacks, woven with warm words that stay close to the heart.
This work will light a quiet beacon in the hearts of those standing at life’s crossroads or holding feelings for someone dear.
Feel My HeartEvery Little Thing
This is Every Little Thing’s debut song, one that sings sincerely about the precious resolve to live honestly, without fear—so vividly you can almost feel your heart pounding.
In a world where reality and falsehood intertwine, its sparkling synth sound carries home the importance of staying positive and not being afraid to fail.
Released in August 1996, many will remember it as the song from the Vernal commercial and the ending theme for COUNT DOWN TV.
With its exhilarating, fast-paced melody, this track is sure to give you the courage to keep moving forward without fear when you’re feeling down.
Happy endingOhtaki Eiichi
As the theme song for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.
drama, this is a gem of a love song that Eiichi Ohtaki released for the first time in 12 years.
Its gentle, heartwarming melody and lyrics that carefully weave the feelings of a woman in love blend beautifully, leading to a massive hit of 970,000 copies sold since its release in November 1997.
Used in Love Generation, the song also marked Ohtaki’s first-ever Top 10 entry as a solo artist, showcasing his rich musicality to the fullest.
Portraying a sweet yet bittersweet love story, this track is highly recommended for those harboring feelings for someone special or wishing for a happy future with a loved one.
Swaying FeelingsZARD
This is ZARD’s signature song, featured in a Pocari Sweat commercial and certified a million-seller.
Even among the tracks that drove the Being boom, this one stands out for its refreshing feel.
The moment the intro starts, you can almost see the dazzling summer sunshine.
Izumi Sakai’s straight, crystalline vocals beautifully capture the thrill of a budding romance, winning the hearts of many.
The wavering emotions of longing for someone—sweet, a little frustrating—make the pure lyrics deeply relatable.
As a timeless classic, it continues to color the youth of countless listeners even today.
Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi
This gem of a ballad, carried by a gentle, heart-stirring piano tone, sings of feelings for a precious person who keeps moving forward toward the future.
Aoi Teshima’s crystalline voice beautifully conveys a sense of nostalgia for one’s hometown and a pure, unadorned heart.
Included on the album “Ren’dez-vous,” released in July 2014, it was later chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.
drama “Love That Makes You Cry” in February 2016, and it has also been featured in a commercial for Aflac Life Insurance.
Embracing listeners with images of innocent childhood smiles and hometown scenery while encouraging them to face forward, this song offers gentle comfort to those living away from the places they call home.