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 Depressive Songs Ranking [2026]
- Ranking of Dark/Jaded Japanese Songs [2026]
- Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Artist Rankings [2026]
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- [Yami Song] A mental breakdown track that sings the true feelings of a melancholic heart
- Popular Unrequited Love Songs: Japanese Music/J-Pop Artist Rankings [2026]
- Popular R&B. Japanese Artist Rankings [2026]
- Popular Unrequited Love Song Rankings [2026]
- Yami songs recommended for women
- [Relatable Lyrics] Emo songs to listen to when you're stuck after a breakup or relationship troubles
- Ranking of Sad Songs by Japanese Pop Artists: Popular Tracks [2026]
Popular 'yami' songs: Japanese music / J-POP artist rankings [2026] (31–40)
Girls don’t cry.katahira rina31rank/position
This is Rina Katahira’s “Onna no Ko wa Nakanai” (“Girls Don’t Cry”).
There are, unfortunately, some outrageous men who toy with girls’ feelings.
Many girls have been made to cry and get hurt by such men.
As the song says, there’s no need to shed tears for people like that! Now’s the time to end those push-and-pull relationships and fall in love with someone sincere and kind (lol).
Stray SheepKamisama, boku wa kizuite shimatta32rank/position
This is a song I especially want people who are struggling with their future or feeling stuck to hear.
They rose to popularity with piercing high notes and sharp lyrics.
In this track, they play gently—and at times intensely—as if saving lost lambs.
Singing, “Don’t worry about those around you; listen to your own voice,” their message will surely give you a little push toward the future.
I miss you so much and want to see you.Nishino Kana33rank/position
When it was released in 2010, this song became a hit as a heavy, melancholic track.
It sparked buzz as the origin of the catchphrase “so ~ that I’m shaking.” With lingering feelings for an ex-lover, it’s a song many girls can probably relate to.
Though it’s heavy, I think it’s filled with a girl’s cute, heartfelt emotions.
indigoSukima Suichi34rank/position
There’s truly no missing the mark with Sukima Switch’s ballads—they have many songs that really hit you in the heart.
Among them, this one carries a touch of wistfulness in the lyrics, yet its comfortably groovy rhythm is sure to soothe you and put you at ease.
BathroomShiina Ringo35rank/position
It’s included as the second track on Ringo Sheena’s second album, “Shōso Strip,” released in 2000.
In live performances, it’s played with added arrangements and remains a highly popular song.
The lyrics uniquely express the emotions and desires of men and women.
The luscious melody and her husky voice perfectly match the imagery of the lyrics, making your heart skip a beat.
wedgeOku Hanako36rank/position
The more you love someone, the harder the parting hurts.
When you’ve had your heart broken after a great love, this song will surely bring you to tears.
Created by singer-songwriter Hanako Oku, known for hit songs like “Kawaranai Mono,” it was released in 2015 as her 15th single.
As it has been performed for a long time, there are several versions, but it is basically a simple piece consisting only of piano and vocals.
Yet it has depth, drawing you into a cinematic world.
Our FailureMorita Doji37rank/position
You could even call this the ultimate “King of Depressive Songs”! Maybe many people from younger generations don’t know it, but the gently airy voice delivering the halting lyrics and the suggestive title really get to you.
Highly recommended for when you want to sink all the way down—just be careful not to sink too far…
I can’t stand that cute girl.narumiya38rank/position
Set to a poppy, upbeat rhythm, this track vividly chronicles complex feelings like infatuation and jealousy.
It’s a single released by singer-songwriter Narumiya in September 2023, and it sparked a huge response mainly on social media.
Packed with possessiveness toward a crush and aching wishes, the more you listen, the tighter your chest feels.
Yet those disarmingly honest lyrics end up speaking for your feelings and lightening your heart.
Why not give it a listen when you’re struggling with unrequited love or wishing someone would understand your true feelings at night? If you let yourself sink into the up-tempo groove and let out the haze in your heart, you might feel a bit refreshed.
remainingYoshizawa Kayoko39rank/position
A bittersweet number that highlights Kayoko Yoshizawa’s languid vocals.
Its delicate, film-like imagery stirs an indescribably profound feeling.
The protagonist’s memories of a mere “one day” seem to drift by along with the soothing melody.
It may not plunge you into despair, but it’s perfect for those times when you just want to linger in a pensive mood—a highly recommended track for such moments.
planetariumOtsuka Ai40rank/position
A heart-stirring ballad that projects the ache of love onto the stars in the night sky, this piece is marked by Ai Otsuka’s delicate vocals and lyrical piano.
Memories of a lover and the wistfulness of time gone by are woven into the beautiful imagery of starry skies and planetariums, resonating deeply with listeners.
Used as the theme song for the drama “Koi no Karasawagi” and included on the album “LOVE COOK,” it has continued to soothe many hearts since its release in September 2005.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the stars on a solitary night—recommended for those looking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to immerse themselves in cherished memories with someone special.