Despairingly dark Western music. World-famous classics and popular songs.
Even though it’s not exactly a good habit, when we’re feeling down we tend to listen to dark songs, don’t we…?
This time, I’ve picked out some “desperately dark” Western tracks that I’d recommend to anyone in that mood.
Even within “desperately dark,” I’ve chosen from a range of genres—from quiet, subdued pieces to metal tracks that are dark yet crank the voltage to MAX.
I’ve covered most of the major genres, so music nerds shouldn’t miss this!
There are some pretty obscure songs in here too, so if you’re digging for great tracks, make sure to check them out!
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Despairingly dark Western songs: World-famous and popular tracks (1–10)
ToxicYael Naim
Israeli artist Yael Naim had been highly regarded by certain audiences for her distinctive musical style.
Later, her 2008 song “New Soul” was featured in a commercial for Apple’s MacBook Air, bringing her worldwide popularity.
Among her songs, one of the darkest is “Toxic.” As the title suggests, this piece—whose name means “poison”—is crafted into a dark work with an extremely toxic, menacing atmosphere.
RedboneChildish Gambino
Donald Glover, known as a multi-talented creator, is also recognized as the artist Childish Gambino.
He has produced numerous acclaimed tracks, and the one we’re introducing today, “Reddone,” carries a particularly dark and distinctive atmosphere among them.
Its sound, reminiscent of 80s synthesizers, paired with his soulful, high-register vocals, creates an intriguing contrast.
Rather than being simply dark, it offers a unique shade of darkness that sets it apart.
She’s In PartiesBauhaus
Bauhaus is a UK band known as a pioneering presence in gothic rock.
Debuting in 1979, they attracted popularity from the start with a sound steeped in a distinctive atmosphere.
Although the band has disbanded several times, they are active again now and are held in very high regard by fans of gothic music.
Their classic track “She’s in Parties” carries a punk-tinged vibe while maintaining an overall dark tone.
If you want to experience a unique sense of despair, this is a must-check piece.
Run, Run, RunTokio Hotel
Tokio Hotel is a German crossover band centered around brothers Bill and Tom Kaulitz, known for the strong messages in all of their songs.
Because many of their tracks are sung in English, they have gained popularity not only in Germany but worldwide.
Their classic song “Run, Run, Run,” while employing an advanced melodic line, is crafted with an overall dark and sorrowful tone and has earned high acclaim across the globe.
Sombre dimancheDamia
The song “Sombre dimanche,” composed in Hungary in 1933, is also well known in Japan under the title “Gloomy Sunday.” Although it’s an urban-legend-level claim with no solid evidence, the song is said to have such a dark atmosphere that hundreds of people allegedly took their own lives after listening to it.
According to Asahi Shimbun, five people are said to have been prompted to commit suicide by this song.
This time, I’ve chosen a cover by the French chanson singer Damia.
It’s an extremely somber piece, so please be careful!