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.
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- Popular R&B. Japanese Artist Rankings [2026]
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- Yami songs recommended for women
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- Ranking of Sad Songs by Japanese Pop Artists: Popular Tracks [2026]
Popular Depressing Songs: Japanese Music / J-Pop Artist Rankings [2026] (91–100)
Qshiina mota91rank/position
The sound that starts with a rock vibe is cool, and the melody in the chorus is so impactful you won’t forget it after a single listen.
It has strong dark elements, but the sense of openness feels pleasant, so listening to it is refreshing.
The offbeat drumming is irresistible.
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE92rank/position
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE has delivered a gem of a song that beautifully captures both the brilliance and the fragility of youth.
It delicately portrays the feelings of trying to embrace everyday anxieties, inner conflicts, and the pains of growth as cherished memories.
The song was also chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery” and won the 66th Japan Record Awards in December 2024, marking an unprecedented achievement of back-to-back wins for the band.
This heartwarming track offers empathy and encouragement to middle school students grappling with the uniquely turbulent emotions of adolescence and feelings of self-doubt.
It will surely stay close to your heart and give you the courage to look ahead.
PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism93rank/position
Although ‘Pretender’ is a heartbreak song, its lyrics—honestly expressing a man’s feelings—really move women.
Even the “I like you” that’s hard to say face-to-face becomes easier when put into lyrics.
Even before you start dating, a man who chooses this song gives the impression that he’ll cherish a woman, which is very appealing!
Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO94rank/position
It’s a song that encourages people who struggle through school or work from Monday to Friday.
Early on, it doesn’t try to teach ways to fix those hard days; instead, it speaks to how having time on the weekend to connect with what you cherish and long for can give you the strength to endure the tough parts.
It also shares the message that seeing the way the person you admire lives can later become the catalyst that changes you, ending with words of encouragement.
together; along with; bothWANIMA95rank/position
This is a WANIMA song that has continued to be loved as an anthem for life.
Its uplifting message and energetic sound blend beautifully, powerfully moving everyone who listens.
While facing painful experiences from the past and uncertainties about the future, the lyrics are filled with the courage and hope to keep looking forward and moving on, resonating with many hearts.
Released in August 2016, this meaningful track also carries the band’s feelings for their hometown of Kumamoto, which was struck by an earthquake.
I wholeheartedly recommend it to those who are trying to move forward despite setbacks and anxieties, and to anyone who wants to express gratitude to someone important.
idolYOASOBI96rank/position
YOASOBI’s songs are loved by a wide range of generations! This particular track was used as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oshi no Ko,” so it’s been a huge talking point.
With a 166 BPM technopop sound composed by Ayase layered with ikura’s clear, crystalline vocals, it’s incredibly catchy.
The lyrics portray both the strength and vulnerability of being an idol, as well as the desire to be loved and to love, and they’re sure to resonate with listeners.
Since its release in June 2023, it’s become popular among many middle school students.
It’s a perfect song to listen to on the way to school or to sing at karaoke.
Be sure to give it a listen!
Reincarnate nownakiso97rank/position
Expressing the earnest wish to reset one’s life right now, “Imasugu Rinne” by Vocaloid producer Nakiso blends the dark worldview showcased in songs like “Dokusite Choudai” with a pop sensibility.
Through Miku’s whispery voice, the protagonist’s strong emotions—born from a desperate desire for connection so intense they wish to be reborn—come across directly.
Paired with the music video, you can’t help but ponder the story behind it.
This is the Nakiso world at its finest—experience it for yourself!
Overdosenatori98rank/position
The track released digitally in September 2022 sparked a huge response at home and abroad through social media, helping to spread Natori’s name.
The lyrics depict a relationship you know you shouldn’t be in but can’t escape, mistaking what slips through your fingers for love—an urgent, chest-tightening plunge into a sweet yet perilous whirl of emotion.
Singing of a fleeting romance like a fruit on the verge of breaking, this piece is likely to resonate with middle schoolers grappling with inner darkness.
It’s a recommended number for those who feel loneliness or conflict and wish for someone to understand the pain they carry alone.
budKobukuro99rank/position
An emotionally moving song that gently sings of the sorrow of losing a mother and the hope for the future.
Its simple arrangement centered on acoustic guitar and a wistful yet warm melody resonates with many listeners.
Released by Kobukuro in March 2007, it was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad.” Furthermore, in March 2008 it was selected as the entrance march for the opening ceremony of the 80th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, gaining nationwide recognition.
Embracing the feelings we have for family and loved ones, this piece is perfect for moments when your heart feels close to breaking or when you want to strongly remember someone.
I’d rather die.Fuji Kaze100rank/position
This is a song by Fujii Kaze that expresses an extreme sentiment—preferring death over parting from the one you love.
Despite its light, jazz- and R&B-infused sound that doesn’t feel gloomy, don’t you sense a touch of darkness for a straightforward love song in the lyrics that depict an excessive obsession with the other person? It’s filled with lingering regret about not wanting to suffer remorse after losing them, suggesting that the feeling of love for the other person has become distorted.
The song is included on the album “HELP EVER HURT NEVER,” released in May 2020, and it was performed on a TV program in December 2022.
It’s a track I’d recommend to anyone whose feelings for someone have reached a peak and who is feeling suffocated.