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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- Hidden gems of yami songs. Recommended popular tracks.
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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] (21–30)
indigoSukima Suichi29rank/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.
The happiest way to die in the worldkoka30rank/position
The late Uta’s song delves deeply into the loneliness and despair of human relationships.
It sings of a paradoxical kind of happiness—being hated by everyone in the world so that one can die without troubling anyone.
The track vividly portrays the feelings of someone who has lost their connection to society, resonating with listeners’ hearts.
Released in March 2023, it took part in the VOCACOLE 2023 Spring TOP 100 ranking.
Coupled with IA’s translucent vocals, it creates a uniquely immersive world.
It’s a song that stands beside those burdened with sadness and loneliness, offering empathy.
If you’re struggling, it will gently wrap your heart in comfort.
Popular 'yami' songs: Japanese music / J-POP artist rankings [2026] (31–40)
BathroomShiina Ringo31rank/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.
I miss you so much and want to see you.Nishino Kana32rank/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.
Love me, love me, love meKikuo33rank/position
This song portrays an overpowering love so intense it borders on madness, a plea to be loved relentlessly.
The eerie sound design amplifies the unsettling atmosphere of the track, with extremely hard-panned elements that heighten anxiety.
Alongside the deep, overwhelming affection, it also expresses a desire to eliminate anything that gets in the way—at times depicted in a violent manner, which leaves a strong impression.
While the intensity of the love comes through, the overall mood and nuanced lyrics evoke images of an unstable mind and feelings of fear.
wedgeOku Hanako34rank/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 Doji35rank/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…