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 | Selections Across All Generations (1–10)
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.
GhostJustin Bieber
Perhaps everyone has someone they miss who has passed away.
Ghost is a song that expresses the feeling of longing for those who are no longer with us.
The track is by none other than global superstar Justin Bieber.
Even if you don’t usually listen to his music, you may find yourself relating to these lyrics.
By the way, it’s said that Justin wrote the lyrics while thinking of his late grandfather.
When you listen to this song, I hope you pay special attention to the words.
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.
Emotional Western Music Special | Picks from All Generations (11–20)
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.
See You Again ft. Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa
Sometimes, “emoi” carries a feeling that’s hard to express in other words—a kind of ache in the heart.
For those who want to experience that emotion, I recommend Wiz Khalifa’s classic See You Again ft.
Charlie Puth.
It’s a song about two friends parting with a promise to meet again, and it’s also known as the ending theme for the film Furious 7.
Created in the wake of lead actor Paul Walker’s passing, the track is imbued with a deeply emotional atmosphere.
Lucid DreamsJuice WRLD
A song that candidly portrays the pain of heartbreak catapulted American artist Juice WRLD to stardom.
Known as a landmark of emo rap, the track deftly expresses the complex emotions that follow a breakup.
Its melody, which samples a song by Sting, amplifies the poignancy of the lyrics.
Released in May 2018, the song reached No.
2 on the Billboard chart.
It’s recommended for those seeking to heal from heartbreak or to confront their own emotions.
You’re sure to resonate with the depth of Juice WRLD’s emotional expression.
Someone You LovedLewis Capaldi
Lewis Capaldi is a singer-songwriter who represents Scotland.
With his husky baritone voice and lyrical writing, he became a globally supported artist in the late 2010s.
Among his works, the especially emotional track “Someone You Loved” is particularly renowned.
While it depicts the anguished cries of a man facing heartbreak, I personally believe it deals with the theme of bereavement.
If you’re grieving the loss of someone dear to you, I encourage you to listen along with the Japanese translation.