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 Yami Songs: Japanese Music / J-Pop Artist Rankings [2026] (1–10)
lipstickKato Miria8rank/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!
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.
Popular “yami” songs: Japanese music / J-pop artist rankings [2026] (11–20)
Black sheepKeyakizaka4611rank/position
Have you ever felt like you can’t trust anyone, that there’s no one in this world you can rely on or truly understand you except yourself? The song “Black Sheep,” perfect for times like that, is the eighth single released by Keyakizaka46 in 2019, with Yurina Hirate as the center.
When you’ve fallen into distrust of people, how about letting yourself drop all the way to the bottom? I can’t help but relate to the feeling that if things go well by making myself the bad guy, then that’s fine.
mentally unstable personMioyamazaki12rank/position
It’s a super cool, aggressive-sounding “menhera” song.
It’s by the Tokyo-based rock band MIOYAMAZAKI and is included on their 2015 mini-album “Otona ga Dame tte Itta Yatsu” (The Stuff Adults Said Was No Good).
The track opens with a woman’s monologue, and the lyrics will give you chills as the song unfolds.
I’m sure some of you can’t help but think about someone in this way, whether you like it or not.
Give it a listen when you’re in the mood to sink into a darker state of mind.
moonlightOnitsuka Chihiro13rank/position
Moonlight portrays the sense of helplessness and loneliness one can feel in this wide world.
Released in 2000 by singer-songwriter Chihiro Onitsuka, it is known as one of her signature songs.
Carried by a beautiful yet fleeting piano melody, her voice conveys a deep solitude and anxiety.
The song is filled with messages that prompt deep reflection on life—questions everyone holds, like “What am I living for?” It’s a ballad that depicts the trembling emotions of losing someone dear or losing your place in the world.
Please lend an ear to its gently resonant melody and lyrics.
I wanted to be your last girlfriend.Koresawa14rank/position
Koresawa is a female singer-songwriter who debuted in 2011, known for her distinctive bear-themed visuals and for not showing her face.
Her relatable lyrics have earned her strong support from women.
“Saigo no Kanojo ni Naritakatta” (“I Wanted to Be Your Last Girlfriend”) features heartbreakingly clingy lyrics that contrast with its bright sound.
Even so, its upbeat melody makes it an easy-to-listen-to ‘yami song’ about emotional pain.
