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)
Pulling Your Insides OutJill Tracy
Jill Tracy is known as a leading singer-songwriter in gothic music.
She also performs as a pianist, and both facets of her work are highly acclaimed.
While gothic music often features songs with dark and mysterious atmospheres, she adds a stylish flair to that palette.
Her track “Pulling Your Insides Out” is a masterpiece packed with her distinctive musical sensibilities, suffused throughout with a deeply dark and eerie mood.
BelleZAZ
One of the most beloved artists in France, Zaz.
If you like chanson, many of you in Japan probably know her.
She’s known for her bright vocals and husky voice, but despite being few, she has also released some darker songs.
One of her dark masterpieces is Belle.
While it exudes a stylish, quintessentially French atmosphere, the melody throughout the song is crafted to be poignantly dark.
It also has many elements that are close to Japanese melodies, so be sure to check it out.
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.
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.
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.
Desperately dark Western music: World-famous and popular songs (21–30)
Forever FailureParadise Lost
Have you ever been overwhelmed by a deep sense of powerlessness, wondering if you’re someone destined to fail forever? This track by Paradise Lost, pioneers of British gothic metal, is a song that stands close to that darkness of the heart.
The heavy riffs paint the depths of despair, while crystalline guitar melodies soaring above them highlight a tragic beauty.
The ominous spoken passages heard throughout seem to hint at the protagonist’s mental collapse and descent into madness.
The song is included on the classic album Draconian Times, released in June 1995.
Listen to it on a night when you’ve hit an insurmountable wall and feel yourself being swallowed by dark emotions; its majestic sorrow might, paradoxically, bring your heart a sense of calm.