Really dark... Classic Western songs | So dark that it may trigger depression—proceed with caution!
People often say that you should listen to upbeat songs when you’re feeling down.
That does make sense when you think about it, but in reality, when you’re depressed, you end up wanting to listen to dark songs, right? So, this time, I’ve curated a selection of gloomy Western songs for those who want to dive into some seriously dark music.
I didn’t just pack in popular tracks—these are genuinely dark masterpieces.
So go ahead and wallow in it to your heart’s content (lol).
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Truly dark... Classic Western songs | Too dark, so beware of depression! (1–10)
StitchesShawn Mendes
It’s a track from the album “Handwritten,” and it became Shawn Mendes’s first UK number-one single.
Shawn sings as if pleading about his heart being torn to shreds, and it’s heartbreaking.
Be sure to pay attention to the ending of the music video.
LithiumNirvana
It is a masterpiece that sings of a heartrending sense of loss and loneliness that seeps into every corner of the heart.
The feelings of a young man who harbors suicidal thoughts yet seeks salvation in religion are expressed through a dynamic interplay of quiet and loud sounds.
Included on the album Nevermind, released by America’s Nirvana in September 1991, it was issued as a single the following July.
The structure, alternating between gentle melodies and intense choruses, skillfully captures the protagonist’s violent emotional swings.
As suggested by its title, which references a medication used to treat bipolar disorder, the song centers on themes of psychological instability and anguish, making it a track that resonates with those carrying heavy burdens in their hearts.
will heJoji
George is a Japanese multi-talented entertainer active as an artist and comedian.
He isn’t very familiar to audiences in Japan—and for good reason.
Since he’s currently based in New York, he doesn’t appear in Japanese media.
One of his standout songs is “will he.” While he often creates dark and emotional works, this piece also carries a somber atmosphere.
He’s a Japanese artist who can hold his own on the global stage, so be sure to check him out.
Truly Dark… Classic Western Songs | So dark—beware of depression! (11–20)
Counting StarsOneRepublic
It’s a track from the album “Native” and the first song by OneRepublic to reach number one on the UK Singles Chart.
With a quintessentially OneRepublic catchy melody and lyrics open to interpretation, it’s sure to captivate everyone.
In a word: “Fantastic!”
Love Song For A VampireAnnie Lennox
Annie Lennox is a Scottish singer-songwriter known as the vocalist of Eurythmics.
Her distinctive musical style, which blends blue-eyed soul with synth-pop, has earned her popularity, and she has released a wide range of songs.
One of her most acclaimed works is Love Song for a Vampire.
Although it’s a song themed around vampires, it carries a more divine than dark atmosphere.
It has a unique, brooding quality, so be sure to check it out.
Another Brick in the WallPink Floyd
A landmark piece of socially conscious rock infused with a critical view of formal education.
Released in November 1979 on the album The Wall by the British rock band Pink Floyd, this song topped the charts in 14 countries worldwide.
Centered on the theme of the “wall” built within the protagonist’s mind, it portrays loneliness and despair.
In the film Pink Floyd: The Wall, the striking images of students having their individuality stripped away in a factory-like school left a lasting impression.
A masterpiece where lyrics questioning an oppressive education system and a conformist society are brilliantly fused with a disco-inflected beat and a children’s choir.
It’s a song to hear when your spirits are low or when you feel you’re losing your way.
WithinDaft Punk
Daft Punk, the French electro duo that represents their country, have worked across a wide range of electronic music, including techno and trance.
Sadly, they disbanded in 2021, but their popularity remains strong.
A dark masterpiece of theirs that I’d like to recommend is Within.
Its lyrics abstractly pursue the question of “Who am I?”, and the melody is so achingly sad that it tightens your chest even if you don’t understand the words.