Masterpieces that sing of despair. Recommended popular songs.
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!
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Masterpieces that sing of despair. Recommended popular songs (51–60)
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.
Grim ReaperOmori Seiko
Since the song is titled “Shinigami” (Grim Reaper), it’s exactly the kind of track I want to listen to when I’m feeling truly despairing.
Even if we believe sorrow will eventually lift, there are times we want to listen to a song like this, right? Just be warned: the lyrics are intense, so take them in with the mindset that it’s all happening within the song.
This is a track where almost no helping hand is extended.
He was alive, wasn’t he?aimyon
It’s a soul-stirring song that confronts the weight of life.
Released as Aimyon’s ambitious major-label debut in November 2016, it layers warm, heartfelt lyrics over stark despair to question the preciousness and sanctity of living.
Chosen as the opening theme for the TV drama “Is Kichijoji the Only Place You Want to Live?”, its fresh yet powerful vocals resonated deeply with listeners.
Blending elements of folk and pop rock, the song is carried by the gentle tone of an acoustic guitar.
The lyrics, which stand beside those who have felt loneliness or the difficulty of living at least once, quietly echo in the listener’s heart.
When you’re feeling down or troubled, try listening to it alone in silence.
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.
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.