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Enduring popularity! Classic emo songs in Western music

Even when we say “emo” in a word, there are many perspectives, aren’t there?

Sometimes bands themselves don’t embrace the label, or fans are split, but here we’re focusing on popular tracks that are widely recognized and loved by fans as emo classics.

Emo, which falls under the rock umbrella, traces its roots to the sound of bands that emerged in the United States in the 1980s as emotional hardcore.

From there, through the 1990s and 2000s, emo bands rapidly rose to prominence within alternative rock.

This time, we researched iconic emo songs in Western music based on credible feedback from music fans submitted to our site.

We’ve carefully selected especially popular bands and staple tracks, so please enjoy.

Persistent favorite! Classic emo songs in Western music (11–20)

Love DrunkBoys Like Girls

A pop-punk classic that brilliantly captures the sweetness and bitterness of youth.

Upon its release in September 2009, it quickly dominated the charts.

It vividly portrays the shift from the intoxicating love of “Love Drunk” to the hangover-like anguish that follows.

As a signature work by Boys Like Girls, it resonated deeply with young listeners, and the music video featuring Ashley Tisdale also drew attention.

It’s a song that gives a powerful push to anyone trying to overcome the pain of a breakup.

Listen to it while talking with friends, and you’ll surely find the courage to face tomorrow.

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That’s What You GetParamore

Paramore: That’s What You Get [OFFICIAL VIDEO]
That's What You GetParamore

A heart-stirring Paramore number that portrays the anguish that follows acting on pure emotion.

Featured on their 2007 album Riot! and released as a single the following year, it swept charts around the world.

With searing vocals and a driving sound, it lays bare the pain of heartbreak and self-loathing.

It gained even more attention when it was used in the 2011 film Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

Especially recommended for teens struggling with relationships—listen with friends and share the feelings.

This song will surely encourage you and make you feel, “I’m not alone.”

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Thnks fr th MmrsFall Out Boy

Fall Out Boy – Thnks fr th Mmrs (Official Music Video)
Thnks fr th MmrsFall Out Boy

It’s a song that blends aching sadness with ironic laughter—a textbook example of emo.

Featured on the album “Infinity on High,” it has captured many hearts since its 2007 release.

The emotional melody and catchy chorus balance perfectly, brimming with an irresistible sing-along appeal.

The lyrics, which empathize with the pain of heartbreak and separation, resonated deeply with many fans.

Beloved around the world, it even reached No.

3 on the charts in Australia.

It’s perfect for making memories with friends or for refreshing your mood on your own.

Turn it up loud and enjoy this track packed with everything that makes Fall Out Boy so compelling.

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BoxcarJawbreaker

Jawbreaker – Boxcar (Official Music Video)
BoxcarJawbreaker

Jawbreaker is a band that represents the emo-punk scene of the ’90s.

Their 1992 track “Boxcar” delivers a raw, full-on punk sound whose rough edge feels exhilarating.

They’re known for having a huge influence on later emo scenes, and their 2017 reunion only added to their notoriety as a band with a large and devoted fanbase.

Murakami Shinpei
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The Heart Is a Lonely HunterThe Anniversary

The Anniversary’s intro has a messy, charming feel that makes “The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter” so fun.

And above all, that opening—recorded like a youthful chorus—is fantastic and really defines the song’s identity.

It’s an emo number where you can vividly feel yourself getting high on the steadily intensifying beat.

Murakami Shinpei
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