Masterpieces that sing of despair. Recommended popular songs.

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
lighterutatane
A person from the melodic hardcore boom generation who loves music, photography, and eating. I’ve been going to live houses for over 20 years. I’m at the age where summer festivals are starting to feel tough physically. I sometimes try shooting live photos and videos for MVs. I’m not great at English, so I often listen to straightforward Japanese rock that hits directly, but if someone recommends something, I’ll listen to anything—Western or Japanese—broadly and casually. I like cooking while listening to music; it’s a nice way to relieve stress.

I’ve put together a generous selection of negative, melancholy songs with the theme of “despair.” Whether it’s heartbreak from unrequited or impossible love, or setbacks in life, the shades of despair vary, with each artist’s individuality and emotions on full display.

When you just want to sink into your feelings, why not listen closely and let yourself fully experience despair, all the way to the very bottom? Some songs even let a glimmer of hope shine through the despair.

Savor that deep despair, then switch gears and get back to enjoying life!

Masterpieces that sing of despair. Recommended popular songs (51–60)

Azure Daysplenty

plenty “Blue Days”

Azure Daysplenty

Even when you give it your all, sometimes your efforts don’t pay off.

In moments like that, the song I want to introduce is “Aoki Hibi” (“Azure Days”).

It’s a piece that portrays the despair of trying something and failing.

There are various interpretations, but the title is said to refer to the time when you were working hard with excitement and anticipation.

It’s a song overflowing with a sense of emptiness, yet in the final chorus it gently gives you a push forward.

If you like it, be sure to watch the music video where they perform it a cappella.

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DaydreamreGretGirl

reGretGirl "Daydream" Official Music Video

DaydreamreGretGirl

Daydream by reGretGirl is a heartbreak song brimming with bittersweet feelings.

He can’t stop thinking about the girlfriend he broke up with, crushed by a sense of defeat and despair—and then, in the end, a rush of jealous fantasies hits hard.

Even so, in true reGretGirl fashion, it resonates with aching tenderness.

It’s a track that conveys the helpless emotions of a man who’s been dumped.

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Premonitory RaidMakishimamu Za Horumon

Maximum the Hormone 'Yoshu Fukushu' Music Video

Premonitory RaidMakishimamu Za Horumon

This track explodes with a raw sound packed with social critique and the band’s convictions.

It questions the supremacy of technical virtuosity and challenges a sincere approach to music, delivering a powerful message through Maximum the Hormone’s uniquely distinctive musical style.

Daisuke-han’s roaring shouts and Nao’s clear vocals create a perfect contrast.

Released in July 2013 as the title track of the album “Yoshu Fukushu,” it also drew attention for its music video directed by Hitoshi Ohne, known for the film “Moteki.” Highly recommended for those who want to reflect on the essence and meaning of music, or simply surrender to an energetic sound.

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Shut up.Ado

[Ado] Shut Up

Shut up.Ado

A punk rock sound that thrusts to the forefront, with a roar-like vocal that sent shockwaves through the music industry and a forceful, almost violent melody.

This shocking work channels, with explosive energy, the sense of dissonance young people feel toward society and their determination to resist the expectations and oppression around them.

As Ado’s major-label debut, the track was released digitally in October 2020 and received high acclaim across the board, including winning the Breakthrough Song at the M Television VMAJ 2021.

It’s a song that gives courage—powerfully pushing the backs of those who struggle to express their true feelings and worry about others’ eyes and judgments.

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In conclusion

Listening to songs that sing of despair, strangely enough, brings a sense of peace.

From crystalline vocals to profound lyrics, there were many tracks that let you feel a faint light even within the darkness.

At times, by seeking out songs that voice our despair, we may confront our own emotions and find the courage to take a step toward tomorrow.

On nights when your heart feels like it might break, find your own “despair song” and let your feelings flow freely.

I believe that from there, new hope will begin to sprout.