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 (21–30)
Fast CarTracy Chapman
The acoustic guitar arpeggios, blending into the wistful air of dusk, are striking.
This is a gem of a ballad by singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman, who has continued to sing powerful messages rooted in folk and blues.
The song portrays the story of a protagonist who pins their hopes on a fast car in an effort to escape a stifling reality.
Even as they dream that they “might be someone,” the aching emotions of confronting an unyielding reality are deeply moving.
Released in April 1988, the track appears on the classic album “Tracy Chapman” and reached No.
6 on the U.
S.
charts.
Its melancholy melody, which somehow overlaps with scenes of a fading summer, is perfect for moments of solitary reflection.
GreyWhy Don’t We
The vivid summer scenery suddenly fades, turning monochrome.
It’s a song by the pop group Why Don’t We that gently stays close to that wistful feeling at summer’s end.
The message—that even when the world looks gray with sadness, only a loved one can bring back color—quietly resonates.
The track is included on their album “The Good Times and the Bad Ones,” released in January 2021, which peaked at No.
3 on the U.
S.
charts.
Its gentle harmonies layered over a soft piano sound feel like listening to ripples on the shore at dusk.
It’s a beautiful ballad, perfect for a sentimental night spent cherishing the season that has passed.
Sad ForeverLauren Spencer Smith
A heartfelt ballad crafted by Lauren Spencer Smith, a young singer-songwriter from Canada.
Featured on her October 2023 album “Mirror,” this track lays bare the inner turmoil that accompanies success.
Her powerful yet delicate vocals brilliantly capture the complex feeling of “I should be happy, but somehow I feel sad.” It’s a song that inspires the courage to face oneself in the age of social media.
Recommended for those who want to look inward and for anyone seeking music that stays close to the heart.
All Girls Are The SameJuice WRLD
A signature song by Juice WRLD that sings of heartache and loneliness.
The Chicago-born artist lays bare the pain of heartbreak and his distrust of women.
As a flagship of emo rap, the track drew major attention upon its April 2018 release, reaching No.
41 on the Billboard charts.
Its poignant piano melody intertwined with trap beats creates a unique soundscape that resonates with anyone hurt by love.
It struck a chord with younger listeners and has surpassed 1 billion streams on Spotify.
It’s the perfect track for healing the wounds of a breakup or facing your own emotions.
ImaginationShawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes, the Canadian singer-songwriter who’s won popularity with his sweet looks and catchy musical style.
This is a hidden gem included on the deluxe edition of his debut album, Handwritten, which drew attention when he was 16.
The song revolves around an achingly sad unrequited love: being unable to confess your feelings to the person you like and becoming their lover only in your imagination.
His crystalline vocals and the gentle tones of the acoustic guitar portray the protagonist’s pure, single-minded feelings, tightening your chest.
Released in April 2015, this emotional track is one you’ll want to hear if you’re holding onto a love you know will never come true.
I Love U in MePrince
Prince, the legendary singer-songwriter also renowned for his guitar playing, stood shoulder to shoulder with Michael Jackson in the 1980s thanks to his overwhelming musical prowess.
Among his works, one track that’s especially wrapped in an emo vibe is “I Love U in Me.” The title is tricky and hard to render directly into Japanese, but essentially it conveys something like “I cherish you as much as I do myself.” True to that title, the lyrics express profound affection for a loved one.
Lover, You Should’ve Come OverJeff Buckley
This is an achingly beautiful soul ballad left behind by the legendary American singer Jeff Buckley, who died far too young at 30.
It sings of the helpless regret and burning longing after a breakup.
If you’ve ever let go of someone precious because of youthful mistakes, you’ll likely find this song deeply relatable.
Wishing “I wanted you to come see me,” only to realize it’s too late—those feelings with nowhere to go are truly painful.
The track appears on the classic album Grace and was also featured in the drama FlashForward.
Even decades after its August 1994 release, it continues to move hearts.
On a quiet night when you want to be alone with your thoughts, you might let yourself sink into this heavenly voice.