Emotional Western Music Special | Handpicked from All Generations
“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 | Picks from All Generations (61–70)
Castle on the HillEd Sheeran
A coming-of-age reminiscence penned by Ed Sheeran from the UK.
Brimming with love for his hometown, it vividly portrays experiences from his childhood up to around age fifteen.
Adventures with friends, first love, and a steadfast affection for his hometown that endures into adulthood resonate alongside Sheeran’s warm vocals.
Released in January 2017, this piece captured many hearts as a track on the album ÷ (Divide).
It was also featured in the trailer for the animated film Ferdinand, drawing even more attention.
A recommended song for those who feel nostalgia or long for their youthful days.
For All We KnowDonny Hathaway
Singer-songwriter Donny Hathaway, who, along with Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, helped fuel the New Soul boom of the 1970s.
As a soul singer with a classical background, he was a distinctive presence in the Black music scene of the time.
Among his works, an especially emotional piece is “For All We Know.” Originally a jazz standard, it took on a completely different atmosphere through Hathaway’s arrangement.
It’s a masterpiece in which his vocals—marked by a delicate, wistful tone—beautifully create an emotive mood.
Beggin For ThreadBANKS
Sung by the American artist Banks, this song centers on embracing one’s instability and emotional turmoil.
Released in July 2014 and included on the album “Goddess,” it features a distinctive sound that fuses elements of electronica and R&B.
Alongside powerful vocals, the lyrics stand out for their candid portrayal of personal flaws and emotional ups and downs.
Banks made her television debut by performing the song on the U.
S.
show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” It’s a track that resonates with listeners who struggle with mood swings and self-acceptance.
Calling YouJevetta Steele
Jevetta Steele’s signature work, “Calling You.” Known as the theme song for the film “Bagdad Cafe,” the track became a worldwide hit.
The song’s appeal, above all, lies in the depth of its melody and lyrics.
As for the melody, it’s woven into a uniquely soft, subdued atmosphere.
There are occasional vocal embellishments, but the feel of Black music is understated, creating an arrangement that strikingly matches the film’s worldview.
And then the lyrics: they portray the feelings of someone waiting for the return or reconciliation of the person they love from the bottom of their heart—perfectly aligned with the movie’s story.
Novum VetusSunny Day Real Estate
A new song by Sunny Day Real Estate, a band emblematic of ’90s emo-core.
Their first release in a decade, this work was created based on a track born during the sessions for their 1998 album How It Feels to Be Something On.
The dramatic, seven-and-a-half-minute sound strongly reflects the spirit of ’90s emo while exuding a contemporary vitality.
It’s set to be released on May 3, 2024, alongside a studio live version of their debut album, Diary.
In addition, a U.
S.
tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of Diary will run from March through October.
Why not revisit the evolving musicianship of a group that built a monument to ’90s emo?
It’ll Be OkayShawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes is one of the most talked-about singers in Canada.
He has released numerous love songs, and among them, the heartbreakingly beautiful ‘It’ll Be Okay’ has drawn particular attention.
The song portrays the feelings of a man who chooses not to hold back his girlfriend after she asks to break up, and instead supports her decision.
The title ‘It’ll Be Okay’ carries the meaning of “It’s going to be all right.” The chorus, where this phrase appears, is especially known for its heartrending impact.
Although the theme is sad, the song ultimately carries a positive message, making it a great recommendation for anyone who wants to lift their spirits.
Better AloneBenson Boone
For those who want to be soothed by a gentle ballad, I’d like to introduce the artist Benson Boone.
His popularity exploded in 2021.
After he uploaded a song he wrote to TikTok, it quickly went viral and his follower count surpassed 1.
7 million.
One of his signature tracks is this one, “Benson Boone.” There are no explicitly heartbreak-related words in the lyrics.
Because of that, the song invites a range of interpretations and becomes something anyone can emotionally connect with.
If you like it, be sure to check out his TikTok as well.