Classic emo masterpieces in Japanese music. Recommended popular songs.
These days, people often play on the word “emotional” and say “emo-i” to describe when feelings are running high.
Listening to songs that put you in that emo mood can clear your mind, pump you up, and bring lots of other positive effects.
In this article, we’re shining a spotlight on that sense of “emo-ness” and have picked out some recommended tracks.
From hard-hitting tunes to mellow vibes and breezy numbers, we’ve selected songs from a variety of genres.
We hope you’ll find some “emo” songs that truly move your heart.
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Emo masterpieces of Japanese music. Recommended popular songs (71–80)
Bedroom TalkOfisharu Higedan Dism
A song written and composed by Daisuke Kozasa that captures a moment of sharing true feelings in a bedroom at night.
It’s included on the album “Editorial,” released in August 2021.
The song carries a warm message that gently lights an unwavering lamp in hearts worn out by the online world, reminding us of the importance of quiet conversations that connect us with others.
mabanua’s mellow arrangement wraps the stillness of the night, while the delicate guitar tones resonate pleasantly.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to on nights when you’re tired of human relationships and want to take your time talking with someone you trust.
The lyric video is created entirely with illustrations, beautifully depicting the passage of time from dusk until sleep.
motion sickness from proximitywanuka
I want to pour out my true feelings under the influence of alcohol, but I can’t put them into words honestly… In Wanuka’s song, the protagonist’s bittersweet emotions are sung as they try to express their love by taking refuge in drinking.
When a short version was posted on TikTok in 2020, its unique worldview became a hot topic, and after the official release in February 2021, it topped Spotify’s Viral Chart.
The Japanese-inspired sound, which incorporates the yonanuki (pentatonic) scale, feels nostalgic yet radiates a fresh charm.
The desire to get closer to someone, even if it means borrowing the courage of drunkenness, and the frustrating uncertainty over whether those feelings are truly genuine—this is recommended for anyone who relates to the real struggles of love.
DECIDEDUVERworld
It’s a song by a Japanese mixture rock band that’s especially popular among younger generations.
The track also serves as the theme song for the live-action film adaptation of a hugely popular manga.
Its strongly message-driven lyrics are delivered through the vocalist’s powerful voice, giving it a deeply emotional feel.
fireworks (launched into the sky)DAOKO × Yonezu Kenshi
A song that’s also famous as the theme for the film “Fireworks, Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom?” The back-and-forth between DAOKO and Kenshi Yonezu in the latter half captures the feeling of building excitement at the end of a summer fireworks festival and the loneliness that follows, leaving you with a bittersweet mood.
Crimson MoonBABYMETAL
This is a popular song by the founder of cute metal, who now enjoys worldwide recognition.
Alongside their characteristically intense heavy metal sound, the vocals carry a bittersweet yet beautiful melody, making it a deeply emotional track.
gardenFuji Kaze
Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, who captivates audiences with high-level performances on piano and a wide range of instruments, is also in the spotlight.
This track, included on his March 2022 album “LOVE ALL SERVE ALL,” was featured in a commercial for NatureLab’s “Laundrin.” Its relaxed beat and gentle vocals draw you in.
The message—cherishing and nurturing your own heart like a garden—is truly wonderful.
It’s a soulful number whose grand, gospel-tinged arrangement is deeply moving.
quiet10-FEET
This is the song that was chosen for Toyota’s “Ractis” commercial and became the catalyst for many people to discover the band.
The track captures the restless urgency of youth and an inescapable sense of longing, carried by TAKUMA’s emotional vocals.
The sound that erupts from a gentle intro feels like it blows away all the pent-up haze in your heart.
Released in February 2006, it’s also included on the album “TWISTER.” The music video is a must-see too: it flips from serious expressions to the members gleefully playing Twister covered in lotion, brimming with their signature playful spirit.
When you’re stuck, lost in worry, this song just might give you the strong push you need.