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)
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.
hydrangeaPEOPLE 1
A poignant ballad you’ll want to listen to on a rainy day.
This song, performed by PEOPLE 1, is a masterpiece in which vocalist Ito’s richly expressive voice gently sinks into your heart.
Released in June 2022, it colored the drama Kanakana’s most heartrending scenes as an insert song.
It was later included on the album Hoshimeguri, Kimi ni Kinsei.
The lyrics, which liken shifting romantic feelings to the seasons and hydrangeas, are lyrical and squeeze your heart even just to read them.
Liaratarayo
This song, released by Atarayo in October 2021, turns a lie born from a romantic misunderstanding into music.
It’s an answer song told from the male perspective of “I’ll Forget Your Silence in October.” Hitomi’s emotional vocals convey the regret and lingering attachment toward a lover whose heart is drifting away, tightening your chest.
And the device at the end—where the melody of “I’ll Forget Your Silence in October” overlaps—invites you to imagine the two characters’ story and brings tears to your eyes.
skinshaitoopu
With delicate vocals and a gentle melody, this ballad quietly seeps into a tired heart.
The singer is Shytoop, a rock band whose lyrics skillfully capture everyday scenes and emotions, resonating with listeners.
In this work, the story is carefully woven around a protagonist who tends to lose confidence amid busy days, and who, in the moment they touch the warmth of a loved one’s skin, rediscovers their true self.
The track was produced as the web movie song for a skincare brand released in April 2024, and was included on the major-label debut single “Hikariau,” released in July of the same year.
Give it a listen, and you’ll feel the stiffness in your heart gently unwind.
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.
tearsHitsuji Bungaku
A sound infused with a quiet yet palpable intensity gently stirs something deep in your chest.
It’s a song by the alternative rock band Hitsujibungaku, released in February 2024.
Written as the theme song for the film “Kakushigoto” starring Anne, it was later included on the album “Don’t Laugh It Off.” The lyrics, which seem to carefully scoop up the warped yet profound love between parent and child, and Moeka Shiotsuka’s clear, translucent vocals are deeply moving.
The cello—introduced for the first time—adds a heartrending tone that feels like it’s expressing an unsteady, wavering heart.
It’s the perfect track for nights when you’re overwhelmed by inescapable emotions.
gardenFuji Kaze
Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, who captivates audiences with high-level performances on piano and a wide range of instruments, is also in the spotlight.
This track, included on his March 2022 album “LOVE ALL SERVE ALL,” was featured in a commercial for NatureLab’s “Laundrin.” Its relaxed beat and gentle vocals draw you in.
The message—cherishing and nurturing your own heart like a garden—is truly wonderful.
It’s a soulful number whose grand, gospel-tinged arrangement is deeply moving.