Guaranteed to move your emotions! Emo songs released in the Reiwa era
In recent years, the word “emoi” has been widely used among young people.
It comes from “emotional,” meaning a state that’s easily affected by feelings, and it’s used to express emotions like happiness, sadness, loneliness, nostalgia, and bittersweetness.
This time, we’ve put together a list of “emoi” tracks limited to releases from the Reiwa era.
Beyond just the lyrics, some songs feel “emoi” through their melodies and ensemble, so we hope listeners of all ages—not just younger generations—can feel the “emo” vibe.
- Just listening to it gives me chills! A moving song released in the Reiwa era
- Gently soaking into a weary heart... Healing songs released in the Reiwa era
- When you want to immerse yourself in music alone! Tear-jerker songs released in the Reiwa era
- Listening will surely fill you with courage! Cheer songs released in the Reiwa era
- [Classic and Contemporary Hits] Emotionally Stirring, Heart-Touching Songs
- [Sentimental/Emotional] A Collection of Vocaloid Songs That Shake the Heart [Moving Songs]
- A collection of Vocaloid youth songs [emo, romance, etc.]
- Recommended for couples! Reiwa-era love songs that warm the heart
- Emotional songs that resonate in a sentimental autumn. A collection of autumn tunes.
- A collection of uplifting, youth-themed songs — timeless tracks that set your heart on fire
- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
- Emotional songs to listen to in spring: a collection of masterpieces that suit the season of meetings and farewells.
- An emo song for winter. A winter tune that resonates with the heart.
Guaranteed to move your emotions! Emo songs released in the Reiwa era (41–50)
Even if I’m not thereHirai Dai
This is a grand love song from Dai Hirai, known for his soothing, beach-evoking music, dedicated to a family of the future.
Released in January 2022, it was also included on the album HOPE / WISH.
Its warm yet bittersweet message—wishing happiness for a loved one even if you’re no longer by their side—strikes a deep chord.
The beautiful blend of piano and strings is also healing.
The flipbook-style music video, created by comedian Tekken with around 1,200 original drawings, moved many viewers.
It’s a song that makes gratitude overflow for the loved ones by your side right now.
Be sure to listen for his gentle vocals, which quietly resonate in the heart.
Love WindIkuta Rira
This song was chosen as the theme for the ABEMA romance reality show “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita.
New Zealand Edition.” It’s a work by Lila Ikuta, who is also active as the vocalist of the music duo YOASOBI, and it was released in April 2025.
The piece is a love song that portrays a delicate emotional landscape: though timid about love, the narrator is touched by the other person’s earnest feelings and tries to take a step forward.
The fresh sound, like a herald of spring, layered with Lila Ikuta’s clear, transparent vocals, tightens your chest as you listen.
This marks the third time she has provided the theme song for the series.
It’s a masterpiece filled with warmth that gently gives you a push when you’re troubled by love or can’t quite take that next step.
PUZZLEShimizu Shota
This is a moving song crafted by Shota Shimizu, featuring a grand gospel chorus that resonates deep in your chest.
After returning his base to his hometown of Osaka, he created this piece together with students from his alma mater, singing about how each person’s fragments of dreams come together to shape a single future.
Many listeners will likely find themselves nodding along to the message that even if you’re imperfect, you can become stronger with your companions.
Released in October 2024, the track surpassed 100 million streams by September 2025 despite having no tie-in.
It is also included on the album “Pulsatilla cernua.” It’s a heartwarming number that’s perfect for reaffirming the bonds with friends who share your dreams.
Secret GardenBE:FIRST
This track, rooted in 2010s R&B and marked by a groovy, sophisticated sound, is a song by BE:FIRST produced by SKY-HI.
Created together with renowned LA producers, it seems to portray secret moments with someone special, but in fact it sings of their deep love for music itself.
The lyrics, which express respect for music through the metaphor of romance, are sure to spark the listener’s imagination.
Released in August 2025, it was also featured in a Unilever campaign.
The song is included on the single “Sora” and their first best-of album “BE:ST.” It’s an urban, mellow number that’s perfect for when you want to feel just a bit more grown-up.
Lilia.Watashi janakattanda ne.
Singer-songwriter Riria, who rose to popularity after posting acoustic performances on social media.
Released in October 2021, this song is a ballad that vividly portrays the pain of heartbreak and lingering feelings.
The lyrics, like an inner monologue, confess how the other person’s kindness only ends up causing more pain—listening makes your chest tighten.
You’ll be drawn in by the sound built around the interplay of gentle piano and guitar, Riria’s fragile vocals, and a late key change that unleashes a rush of emotion.
Take a relaxed posture and give it a listen.