Ranking of Dark/Jaded Japanese Songs [2026]

Eine KleineYonezu Kenshi1rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Eine Kleine

When it comes to junior high schoolers, many are probably excited or troubled about romance, right? Falling for someone brings lots of fun, but there are times when you suddenly feel sad or scared and your mood drops.

A sentimental love song that perfectly matches those feelings is Kenshi Yonezu’s “Eine Kleine.” Even though thinking about someone you like should make you happy, it’s easy to slip into negative thoughts—that happens to everyone.

It’s a sad yet deeply moving love song about wishing for that person’s happiness, even if it means sacrificing your own feelings.

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utatane

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NonfictionHirai Ken2rank/position

Ken Hirai “Nonfiction” MUSIC VIDEO (Short Ver.)

This is a song I highly recommend when you run into a wall at work or in relationships.

Ken Hirai’s 2017 release “Nonfiction” was written as the theme song for the drama “A Small Giant.” Not only does it tie in with the drama’s story, it’s also a number imbued with Hirai’s feelings for a friend who died by suicide.

For those who can’t find answers no matter how much they think, who are lost and struggling, it will likely pierce the heart.

I also recommend it as a motivational song to listen to when you’re lost in life or facing difficulties.

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utatane

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a May flyRADWIMPS3rank/position

RADWIMPS – May's Fly (May's Fly) | Korean Lyrics

The lyrics filled with aggressive words leave a strong impression.

It’s a song by the rock band RADWIMPS, who have produced numerous hits like “Zenzenzense” and “Yushinron,” released in 2013 as their 16th single.

The edgy band sound is incredibly cool! However, as mentioned above, the lyrical content is just that—brimming with RADWIMPS’ signature style and Yojiro Noda’s distinctive touch.

If someone’s done something nasty to you, listening to it might feel refreshingly cathartic.

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Araki Jakkan

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Your Dissection Pure Love Song ~Die~aimyon4rank/position

Aimyon “Anatomy of You: Pure Love Song ~Die~” lyric video made on LINE

This is a shocking song where intense madness and love intertwine.

Released exclusively at Tower Records in March 2015 as Aimyon’s debut single, it left a major impact on the indie scene.

While the melody gives a pop impression, the lyrics darkly portray obsession and possessiveness toward a loved one, and that uncanny contrast pierces the listener’s heart.

The gap between the pop sound and the provocative lyrics masterfully depicts the obsession and destructive desires that can accompany romantic feelings.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to let out powerful emotions or express complex romantic feelings at karaoke.

Nothing I do goes well.meiyo5rank/position

[meiyo] Nothing I Do Goes Right [MV]

It’s an addictive song that lays bare the muddled thoughts and days when nothing goes right.

Released by meiyo in January 2022, it unfolds a distinctive sound that deftly weaves together humor and relatability.

Packed with contemporary themes—self-loathing, comparing oneself to others, and the struggle with social media validation—it’s sung in a self-addressing tone that leaves a strong impression.

The music video also portrays everyday “not going well” moments—like failing to split disposable chopsticks cleanly, or finding chopsticks included with a pudding—creating a unique, offbeat world.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you can’t sort out your feelings or when you feel unable to move forward.

Cute Girlfriendsyudou6rank/position

【Ka Fu】Cute Girlfriend【syudou】

“Cute Girlfriend” is a song that pierces deep into the emotions.

In syudou’s work, the lyrics are marked by a sense of heartache and darkness, embracing those who are dealing with heartbreak and painful feelings and giving voice to what lies within their hearts.

Its maddeningly single-minded love for a partner rides on a rhythmic yet subtly unsettling melody, resonating deeply with listeners.

syudou’s vocals carry a uniquely poignant and beautiful allure found nowhere else, making this a track you’ll want to hear especially in tough times.

By laying bare its emotions, this song may ease the hearts of those who carry similar pain.

What do you want to become?Rozarīna7rank/position

Rosalina 'What Do You Want To Be,' Official Lyric Video

If you’re a college student who feels crushed by anxiety about the future, please give this a listen.

It’s a track by Rozarina, included on the album “INNER UNIVERSE,” released in January 2020.

The song portrays the struggle of being overwhelmed by obligations and losing sight of what you truly wanted to do.

Its smoky vocals and acoustic tones gently wrap around a tired heart.

It’s a number I hope you’ll listen to without holding back your tears.