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Popular “yami” songs: Japanese music / J‑Pop artist rankings [2026]
When you’re feeling down, entrust those feelings to songs that sing about the same emotions.
This time, we’ll introduce Japanese artists who specialize in “dark/healing songs,” ranked in order.
Before long, you’re sure to feel better.
Popular Yami Songs: Japanese Music / J-Pop Artist Rankings [2026] (1–10)
Eine KleineYonezu Kenshi1rank/position
When it comes to junior high schoolers, many are probably excited or troubled about romance, right? Falling for someone brings lots of fun, but there are times when you suddenly feel sad or scared and your mood drops.
A sentimental love song that perfectly matches those feelings is Kenshi Yonezu’s “Eine Kleine.” Even though thinking about someone you like should make you happy, it’s easy to slip into negative thoughts—that happens to everyone.
It’s a sad yet deeply moving love song about wishing for that person’s happiness, even if it means sacrificing your own feelings.
NonfictionHirai Ken2rank/position
This is a song I highly recommend when you run into a wall at work or in relationships.
Ken Hirai’s 2017 release “Nonfiction” was written as the theme song for the drama “A Small Giant.” Not only does it tie in with the drama’s story, it’s also a number imbued with Hirai’s feelings for a friend who died by suicide.
For those who can’t find answers no matter how much they think, who are lost and struggling, it will likely pierce the heart.
I also recommend it as a motivational song to listen to when you’re lost in life or facing difficulties.
Your Dissection Pure Love Song ~Die~aimyon3rank/position
This is a shocking song where intense madness and love intertwine.
Released exclusively at Tower Records in March 2015 as Aimyon’s debut single, it left a major impact on the indie scene.
While the melody gives a pop impression, the lyrics darkly portray obsession and possessiveness toward a loved one, and that uncanny contrast pierces the listener’s heart.
The gap between the pop sound and the provocative lyrics masterfully depicts the obsession and destructive desires that can accompany romantic feelings.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to let out powerful emotions or express complex romantic feelings at karaoke.
a May flyRADWIMPS4rank/position
The lyrics filled with aggressive words leave a strong impression.
It’s a song by the rock band RADWIMPS, who have produced numerous hits like “Zenzenzense” and “Yushinron,” released in 2013 as their 16th single.
The edgy band sound is incredibly cool! However, as mentioned above, the lyrical content is just that—brimming with RADWIMPS’ signature style and Yojiro Noda’s distinctive touch.
If someone’s done something nasty to you, listening to it might feel refreshingly cathartic.
reassessmentMARETU5rank/position
This is a Vocaloid song that draws you into its mysterious world from the intro.
It’s a track by MARETU, a Vocaloid producer also known under the name Gokuaku-P, released on a video-sharing site in 2017.
The suspicious, intoxicating electronic sounds are striking, and the steady, deadpan melody is great as well.
Savor the thoroughly thought-provoking worldbuilding and lyrics.
Absolute GirlfriendOmori Seiko6rank/position
One of Omori’s signature songs, “Zettai Kanojo” (“Absolute Girlfriend”).
Its memorable chorus repeats “I absolutely want to be a girl,” affirming both the beauty of girlhood and the resignation and despair contained within it.
It was included on her indie-era album “Zettai Shoujo,” and later a version featuring Sayumi Michishige was released, which drew major attention.
With its intense yet catchy melody and strikingly distinctive lyrics, it’s a track that powerfully showcases Seiko Omori’s unique worldview.
lipstickKato Miria7rank/position
As the queen of breakup songs, Miliyah Kato was especially popular among young women.
In 2019, news of her marriage surprised the public.
Many of the tracks she released were heavy, emotionally charged love songs.
Among them, “Lipstick” really conveys that pained, troubled state of mind.
If there are men who think women dress up just for fun, this is definitely a song you’ll want them to hear!
Nothing I do goes well.meiyo8rank/position
It’s an addictive song that lays bare the muddled thoughts and days when nothing goes right.
Released by meiyo in January 2022, it unfolds a distinctive sound that deftly weaves together humor and relatability.
Packed with contemporary themes—self-loathing, comparing oneself to others, and the struggle with social media validation—it’s sung in a self-addressing tone that leaves a strong impression.
The music video also portrays everyday “not going well” moments—like failing to split disposable chopsticks cleanly, or finding chopsticks included with a pudding—creating a unique, offbeat world.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you can’t sort out your feelings or when you feel unable to move forward.
CountdownCocco9rank/position
This is the debut single by Cocco, a female singer-songwriter who showcases multifaceted talents as an actress, picture book author, essayist, and novelist, while also engaging in environmental activism to protect the seas of her native Okinawa.
The song’s distinctive presence comes from its raw, exposed emotions set against a heavy and intense rock sound—a quality often seen in her early worldview and musical style.
With vivid depictions of unleashing anger and retribution against a partner’s betrayal, it’s considered a quintessential “dark” song, yet its expressive power and sound are sure to excite rock fans.
It’s a recommended rock number that can blow away the pain of heartbreak.
What do you want to become?Rozarīna10rank/position
This is a song I want you to listen to when you suddenly feel like you’re losing yourself in the rush of everyday life.
Singer-songwriter Rozarina, whose name comes from a soothing herb, created this track from the struggles she faced during an extremely busy time.
It’s included on her first album, INNER UNIVERSE, released in January 2020.
Although it was initially slated to be left off the album, it made the cut thanks to her strong wishes—a passionate backstory.
On nights when you’re worn out from trying too hard for someone else, this song will gently stay by your side.