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 music. World-famous and popular songs (11–20)
2 WickyHooverphonic
Hooverphonic is a Belgian music unit known for trip-hop.
Rather than pure trip-hop, their appeal lies in a distinctive sound that mixes a variety of genres such as funk, jazz, and gothic music.
The track I’m introducing here, 2 Wicky, is crafted with a gothic atmosphere and carries a dark mood throughout.
Stylish yet devastatingly dark.
If you’re looking for a song like that, definitely give it a listen.
Morada AbertaMariza
Mariza, a songstress known as one of the leading artists of fado, Portugal’s traditional folk music, has helped revive its popularity with her exceptionally high-level vocal technique and expressive power.
Today, she is recognized as one of Portugal’s foremost, highly skilled performers.
Her famous song “Morada Aberta” portrays the quintessential fado theme of a widow’s inner feelings, and its overall somber, tragic tone garnered widespread popularity.
It’s also recommended for fans of Latin music!
HelloMolly Zenobia
Molly Zenovia is a singer-songwriter with a striking gothic vibe.
To be honest, she’s such a low-profile artist that she’s barely known even in the U.S., where she’s based.
However, people who love gothic music know her, and she enjoys a devoted following in certain circles.
Her song “Hello” is wrapped in a gothic atmosphere tinged with darkness.
It’s a highly distinctive track, so be sure to check it out.
LazarusDavid Bowie
David Bowie is one of the greatest artists from the United Kingdom, and he’s extremely popular in Japan as well.
Known for art rock and experimental rock, his musical style varies from song to song.
His darker tracks are highly acclaimed; among his many songs, Lazarus in particular is enveloped in a distinctly somber atmosphere.
It’s also packed with coolness, so be sure to check it out.
SurrenderIAMX
IAMX is a solo project created by Chris Corner, formerly a member of the UK electronic music band Sneaker Pimps.
Known for its dark, electronic sound, IAMX has also gained popularity as a leading artist in the gothic music scene.
The track “Surrender” is one of the project’s particularly dark songs and was released in 2015.
The artist’s music videos are also highly acclaimed, so be sure to check them out.
La bohèmeCharles Aznavour
The four-act opera La bohème, composed by the great Italian composer Giacomo Puccini, remains a masterpiece that continues to enjoy immense popularity today—so much so that it’s no exaggeration to call it one of the most famous Italian operas.
Some may find it passionate, but overall it maintains a dark, somber atmosphere.
This time, we’re highlighting a cover by the French singer Charles Aznavour.
Be sure to check it out.
Desperately dark Western music: World-famous and popular songs (21–30)
Crying Of The SunMETALWINGS
It’s known as a signature song by Metalwings, a symphonic metal band from Bulgaria.
Echoing Nightwish with its dark symphonic sound and powerful male-female twin vocals, the track features poetic lyrics that depict memories of the deep night and secret signs.
It was included on the EP “Fallen Angel in the Hell,” released in May 2016.
The music video, filmed in Belogradchik, famed for its beautiful scenery, has surpassed 12 million views on YouTube.
Despite its despairing atmosphere, the song conveys a glimmer of hope—perfect for times when you’re in a darker mood.