Ranking of Dark/Jaded Japanese Songs [2026]
We’re showcasing the monthly top 100 “yami” J-pop songs ranked by view count, all in one place.
When you’re feeling down, upbeat or empowering tracks can help—but sometimes you need songs that gently sit with your pain and offer sympathy.
The playlist is updated weekly.
- Popular Depressive Songs Ranking [2026]
- Popular “yami” songs: Japanese music / J‑Pop artist rankings [2026]
- Sad Song Rankings [2026]
- Lonely Song Rankings [2026]
- Popular Heartbreak Song Rankings [2026]
- [Songs to Listen to When You Want to Die] I want to disappear... A song to support you who feel that way
- Popular Tearjerker Song Rankings [2026]
- [Dark Songs] A carefully curated selection of deeply dark tracks and heartbreaking songs that accompany you in tough times
- Saddest Songs Ranking [2026]
- [Trash Songs] A carefully curated selection of tracks about the lowest, worst kind of loser—and hidden gems!
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- [Support for the Heart] Songs That Give You Courage When Times Are Tough
- Ranking of Tear-Jerking Japanese Songs [2026]
Japanese Sad Songs Ranking [2026] (41–50)
I don’t need friends—die.Shinsei Kamattechan43rank/position
Both the title and the lyrics themselves are pretty dark.
It’s a song by the rock band Shinsei Kamattechan, known for their often talked-about aggressive live performances.
It’s included on their 2012 album “Tanoshii ne.” The rhythm and sound get addictive the more you listen.
But somehow—despite how out there the song is—it also makes you feel a bit wistful.
wedgeOku Hanako44rank/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.
Love me, love me, love meKikuo45rank/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.
I want to see you.sawada chikako46rank/position
This is also a famous song.
Hearing these lyrics sung with such a pure, beautiful voice makes it all the more heartbreaking.
Those who have experienced a bittersweet love might even be moved to tears.
When Mr.
Sawada was a student, he confessed to his senior that he had decided to become a singer, and the senior reportedly told him, “I’ll be your first fan.” But a few days later, the senior tragically died in a traffic accident.
tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa47rank/position
A singer-songwriter beloved for relatable, down-to-earth lyrics, Koresawa delivers a piercing song of regret.
The protagonist is portrayed desperately trying to recover the warmth of lost days from the small personal items their partner left behind.
The depictions of miscommunication—“If only I’d paid more attention to them,” “If only they had cared more about me”—will resonate painfully with anyone who has parted ways with a long-time partner.
Released in March 2017, this work is marked by its acoustic sound.
For those who feel their own shortcomings led to the breakup, this song may quietly sit with you and allow you to shed your tears.
remainingYoshizawa Kayoko48rank/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.
Qshiina mota49rank/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.