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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.

Emotional Western Music Special | Picks from All Generations (11–20)

Here With Med4vd

d4vd – Here With Me [Official Music Video]
Here With Med4vd

Singer-songwriter David has been gaining attention for a sound rooted in indie pop and R&B.

This signature track of his was inspired by the film “Up.” It’s a heartwarming love song that envisions a future of slowly growing old together with the one you love.

Upon its release in September 2022, it quickly went viral on social media, reportedly spawning over a million related videos.

With poetic lyrics and a gentle voice that resonates deeply, the song is perfect for quiet moments with someone special—perhaps on an evening walk home at sunset.

Sign of the TimesHarry Styles

Harry Styles – Sign of the Times (Official Video)
Sign of the TimesHarry Styles

Harry Styles, a British singer who has many fans in Japan.

Many of you might remember him from his band, One Direction.

His first solo single is Sign of the Times.

Since it topped charts around the world, many people may already know it.

The “time” in the song’s title refers to the time a mother, who has been told she doesn’t have long to live, has to share her feelings with her child.

Knowing that theme before you listen may make the song feel even more emotional.

When I Was Your ManBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – When I Was Your Man (Official Music Video)
When I Was Your ManBruno Mars

A poignant piano ballad that sings of heartbreak and regret.

Written from the perspective of a man who has lost his lover by American artist Bruno Mars, the song captures the complex emotions of regretting past mistakes while still wishing happiness for the other person.

Released in January 2013, it appears on the album “Unorthodox Jukebox” and became a worldwide hit, reaching No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard charts.

With its simple piano accompaniment and powerful vocals, it’s recommended for those seeking to heal the pain of a broken heart or to reaffirm their feelings for someone special.

Chasing CarsSnow Patrol

Snow Patrol – Chasing Cars (Official Video)
Chasing CarsSnow Patrol

This is an exquisitely pure love song by Snow Patrol, a rock band from Scotland.

It expresses a heartfelt wish to simply lie side by side with the one you love and forget the clamor of the world.

The deep affection—so profound it’s hard to put into words—rises alongside the sweeping melody and truly hits you in the chest.

Included on the 2006 masterpiece Eyes Open, the song gained worldwide popularity thanks to the hit drama Grey’s Anatomy.

The fact that it remained on the UK charts for an astounding 111 weeks speaks to how deeply it resonated with so many people.

It’s the kind of song that gently stays with you on a late-summer evening, when the fading light makes you a touch sentimental.

WILDFLOWERBillie Eilish

Billie Eilish – WILDFLOWER (Official Lyric Video)
WILDFLOWERBillie Eilish

This song by American artist Billie Eilish portrays the guilt of a protagonist who, while trying to comfort a friend after a breakup, ends up getting involved with that friend’s ex.

With delicate vocals and a soothing beat, the track blends elements of soft rock and pop to create a sound that resonates deeply with listeners.

Featured on the May 2024 album HIT ME HARD AND SOFT, it stands out for lyrics that express complex emotions with striking simplicity.

It was also performed on Saturday Night Live in October of the same year, capturing the hearts of many.

Highly recommended for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or complicated relationships, as it’s sure to evoke empathy.

Surfer GirlThe Beach Boys

The Beach Boys – Surfer Girl (Visualizer)
Surfer GirlThe Beach Boys

The Beach Boys are known as one of the quintessential surf rock bands, and their music has gained worldwide popularity as the “California Sound.” The classic ballad they released in July 1963 is a number whose sweet, bittersweet melody and beautiful choral work tug at the heart.

The song portrays a boy’s pure first love as he admires a girl riding the waves at sunset.

The mix of longing and heartache overlaps with the sentimental mood at summer’s end.

It’s such a special piece that its composer, Brian Wilson, called it his starting point, and it also serves as the title track of the album Surfer Girl.

It’s a timeless song that’s perfect for reminiscing as you wistfully bid farewell to summer.

Emotional Western Music Special | Picks from All Generations (21–30)

Green LightLorde

Singer-songwriter Lorde, who debuted in her teens and shook the music scene with her poetic worldview.

Released in March 2017, this song overlaps with the bittersweet air of late summer.

Beginning with a piano melody, it blends the pain of heartbreak with the exhilaration of trying to break free, portraying a protagonist who still longs for a finished love yet waits for the “green light” to move forward.

It’s as if hiding tears while dancing at a party—an achingly tender yet powerful mood that strikes the heart.

The masterpiece Melodrama, which includes this track, was nominated for Album of the Year at the 60th Grammy Awards.

On a twilight evening when you’re reluctant to let summer go, take the time to listen to it alone.