“Emoi” has now become a mainstream expression in Japan.
We use it as if it’s obvious, but even when you just say “emoi,” it can cover a wide range of feelings.
For example, it can be nostalgic, or delicate and wistful…
This time, we selected Western songs with a focus on various shades of “emoi.”
From the latest hit songs to, in the latter part of the ranking, timeless classics known to those in the know, we’ve picked a broad range.
If you’d like to discover unexpectedly high-quality Western music, please take your time and read to the end.
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Emotional Western Music Special | Selections Across All Generations (1–10)
1-800-273-8255 ft. Alessia Cara, KhalidLogic
A signature work by Logic that expresses the heavy theme of suicide prevention through the medium of hip-hop.
Hailing from the United States, he rediscovered the power of music through interactions with his fans and created this piece.
The song skillfully portrays a shift in emotions from despair to hope.
Released in April 2017, it reached No.
3 on the Billboard charts.
It also had a significant social impact, including a 27% increase in calls to the suicide prevention hotline.
It’s a track I hope will be heard by those who feel life is hard, and by anyone who knows someone who might feel that way.
Easy On MeAdele
Songs that artists create based on their own experiences are packed with emotion and really strike a chord, don’t they? For anyone looking for such real-life songs, I recommend Easy On Me.
It’s a heartbreak song that portrays the feelings of a woman who chooses to part ways with the one she loves.
The song is performed by the British singer-songwriter Adele, and it’s said to be inspired by her own experience with divorce.
The black-and-white music video is also deeply emotional, so be sure to watch it together with the song.
Die With A SmileLady Gaga, Bruno Mars
A moving ballad has become a reality through a dream collaboration between Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars.
Released in August 2024, the song expresses a powerful desire to spend one’s final moments with a loved one at the end of the world.
Blending a retro vibe with modern sensibilities, it has garnered support across generations.
Featured as the theme song for the film “Eternal Love,” it topped the Billboard Hot 100 and has received high acclaim, including a Grammy nomination.
Its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful harmonies make it perfect for times when you want to feel the bond with someone special.
drivers licenseOlivia Rodrigo
A song by American artist Olivia Rodrigo that weaves a poignant story of heartbreak.
As she describes getting her driver’s license and passing by her ex-lover’s house alone, the lyrics trace the pain of the breakup and lingering feelings.
Released in January 2021, the track spent eight consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It features lyrics that deeply resonate with young listeners and a simple yet emotionally rich melody.
It’s a recommended listen when you want to soothe the pain of a broken heart or look back on the bittersweet memories of youth.
One LifeEd Sheeran
When we think of “emo” songs, we tend to imagine only sad or heart-wrenching ones, but there are some happy tracks too.
One of them is ‘One Life,’ sung by global superstar Ed Sheeran.
This love song portrays the feelings of a man proposing to his partner and was written for the film Yesterday.
It’s now widely loved as a go-to BGM for proposals.
Even the title ‘One Life’ for a proposal-themed song is overflowing with emotion, isn’t it?
Stay With MeSam Smith
If you want to be swept away by a song with a beautiful singing voice, I recommend Stay With Me.
It’s a masterpiece by the British singer-songwriter Sam Smith.
His signature clear, soaring high notes are on full display.
The song expresses the loneliness of a love that can never truly be, reportedly based on Sam Smith’s own experience, capturing raw, heartfelt emotions.
Though the content is sad, his voice is soothing, making it a truly comforting piece.
Better DaysDermot Kennedy
Irish singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy is known for a style that blends hip-hop and folk, earning widespread support.
Among his songs, “Better Days” is especially well-regarded by fans.
He wrote it in response to the global mood of restraint during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The lyrics carry a message that if you endure hard times, better days will eventually come.
I’d recommend it as an uplifting song for anyone feeling down.