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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.

Enduring popularity! Classic emo songs in Western music (61–70)

Little TalksOf Monsters and Men

Of Monsters and Men are an indie folk/rock band that took flight from Iceland to the world.

They began their career in 2010 after winning the local band competition Músíktilraunir.

Their appeal lies in a characteristically Nordic, lyrical sound woven by dual male-female vocals and a diverse instrumental lineup.

Their album My Head Is an Animal topped the charts in multiple countries, including Australia and Iceland.

Their distinctive world-building has captured the hearts of many listeners, earning them the European Border Breakers Award in 2013.

If you’re seeking introspective lyrics and melodious sound, this is a band we highly recommend.

My HeroineSilverstein

Silverstein – My Heroine (Official Video)
My HeroineSilverstein

Silverstein, a post-hardcore band from Canada, formed in 2000, borrowing their name from the children’s author.

Blending post-hardcore, emo, and screamo, they debuted in 2003 with the album When Broken Is Easily Fixed.

Their 2005 album Discovering the Waterfront reached No.

34 on the Billboard 200 and earned a Juno Award nomination.

With meticulously crafted song structures and introspective lyrics, they have captured the hearts of many listeners.

In 2021, their album A Beautiful Place to Drown was nominated for the Juno Award for Rock Album of the Year.

Their music, weaving melodic elements into intensity, is perfect for fans who value emotional dynamics.

Somebody ElseThe 1975

The 1975 – Somebody Else (Official Video)
Somebody ElseThe 1975

A gem of a love song that portrays the end of a passionate romance and the struggle of entering a new relationship.

Released in February 2016 by the British band The 1975, this track delicately expresses lingering attachment and jealousy toward a former lover.

Its sound, reminiscent of 80s synth-pop, and Matty Healy’s emotive vocals strike a deep chord.

Included on the album “I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It,” it was also featured in the film “The Edge of Seventeen.” It’s a perfect choice for soothing the pain of heartbreak or for anyone wrestling with complex romantic feelings.

Face DownThe Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus – Face Down
Face DownThe Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

Formed in Florida, USA, in 2003, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus is a band known for a sound that skillfully fuses elements of alternative rock and emo.

They made their major debut with the 2006 album “Don’t You Fake It,” whose track about domestic violence swept the U.

S.

charts and earned the band a platinum certification.

Ronnie Winter’s emotive vocals, socially conscious lyrics, and a sound that is both melodic and energetic are their hallmarks.

They have released five albums up through 2018’s “The Awakening,” continuing to evolve for over two decades.

They’re highly recommended for listeners seeking a fusion of introspective lyrics and powerful melodies.

I Hate Everything About YouThree Days Grace

Three Days Grace – I Hate Everything About You (Official Video)
I Hate Everything About YouThree Days Grace

Hailing from Ontario, Canada, Three Days Grace is a band that has captivated listeners since their formation in 1997 with a wide-ranging sound that spans from alternative rock to nu metal.

Since their major-label debut in 2003, their songs—laying bare anger and anguish—have resonated with audiences worldwide, earning numerous No.

1 spots on the Billboard charts.

Their prowess has been widely recognized, including winning a rock category award at the 2006 Billboard Music Awards.

In 2024, original member Adam Gontier returned, and the band embarked on a new challenge with a twin-vocal setup alongside Matt Walst.

Their music, which channels inner turmoil and conflict through a powerful sound, is perfect for moments when you want to release pent-up emotions.

The QuitterMy Favorite Highway

My Favorite Highway (David Cook) – The Quitter
The QuitterMy Favorite Highway

They are a band formed in 2004 in Virginia, USA, centered around cousins Dave Cook and Will Cook.

The group has four members.

Their first album, “How To Call A Bluff,” was a labor of love created after a long period of groundwork, but the band decided to break up following the drummer’s departure.

Half of NinetyPop Unknown

Although they’re Western music, the vocals sound close to Japanese, making them easy to listen to even for those who aren’t fond of Western music.

With guitar melodies and a singing style that firmly capture emo elements, they’re a band that won’t disappoint.

I recommend listening to them during relaxed moments or for a quick breather at lunchtime.