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 Classics in Japanese Music: Recommended Popular Songs (21–30)
All of the YouthFujifaburikku
I think everyone gets sentimental at the end of summer, and this is a song that makes that moment even more dramatic and emotional.
Its beautiful Japanese lyrics enhance the world of the music, and as the song progresses it becomes increasingly moving, culminating in a chorus so powerful it could bring you to tears.
It’s a gem of a masterpiece left behind by Masahiko Shimura, the vocalist of the rock band Fujifabric.
GoodbyeToe
This is the first band that comes to mind when I think of emo.
Every single sound they make truly pierces my heart.
Among their tracks, this one is one of the few with lyrics.
The performance is so complete that you could think it would stand on its own without any words—everyone plays a leading role.
Precisely because they chose to add expression through words and vocals here, I want you to listen to it over and over, thinking about what that choice means.
VoiceP.T.P×Taka from ONE OK ROCK
This is a tribute song to K, created by the remaining members of a popular rock band whose activities halted after the sudden death of their vocalist K, with TAKA from ONE OK ROCK brought in as the new vocalist.
Not only are the lyrics highly message-driven, but the guitar sound also delivers an extremely powerful and emotional impression.
Goodbye, Identityyonige
A rock track from the Osaka-born girls’ rock band yonige, boasting a cool, tight sense of rhythm.
The matter-of-fact, even-keeled delivery in the first verse hints at an oncoming wave of emotion.
And as expected, the chorus’s verse section uses a simple beat that makes the lyrics and vocals stand out—an arrangement where the emotion explodes.
It’s a song many can relate to, one that has surely encouraged a lot of people.
SparkleRADWIMPS
Dramatically structured to unfold from a gentle solo piano into a gradually grander full-band ensemble, this piece is a moving number that portrays a protagonist striving to live within the constraints of fate and time, while expressing unwavering devotion to a loved one.
Included on the album “Your Name.” released in August 2016, it was used in key scenes of the film “Your Name.” that became a social phenomenon.
With Yojiro Noda’s tender yet powerful vocals resonating in the heart, this song is perfect for spending a quiet night thinking of someone dear—so be sure to immerse yourself in the lyrics as you listen.
Place of FireThe Bones
This is a song by a popular band formed by the instrumental members of Pay money To my Pain and the vocalist of RIZE.
With its refreshing sound and the vocalist’s distinctively powerful voice, the track leaves an emotive and memorable impression.
Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE
Anyway, this song, with its strikingly refreshing tone, is one of Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s popular tracks.
From the vocals and guitar riffs to the bass and drum phrases, every element radiates freshness and youth.
As you listen, waves of nostalgia and memories from your school days come rushing back, tightening your chest—it’s a masterpiece that can’t help but make you feel all the feels.
