Yami songs in Western music: recommended masterpieces and popular tracks

Save MyselfEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Save Myself [Official Audio]

Ed Sheeran, who gained worldwide popularity with his 2017 release “Shape of You,” is well known in Japan as well.

One of his darker songs is “Save Myself.” It features a simple, piano-centered melody that might strike you as beautiful at first listen.

However, in reality it’s quite the opposite of a soothing tune, indirectly portraying his struggles living as a singer.

If you’re curious about what’s going on in his heart, be sure to check out the Japanese translation of the lyrics.

Dead & GoneT.I. ft. Justin Timberlake

T.I. – Dead & Gone ft. Justin Timberlake [Official Video]

The classic track “Dead & Gone” by rapper T.

I.

, who’s also active as a world-class music producer, and Justin Bieber, known for his catchy R&B, is recommended for those who aren’t into overly dark songs.

With Justin Bieber on vocals, even though the lyrics are somber, the overall vibe feels relatively light and straightforward.

It’s a just-right pick for anyone who wants something with a mildly moody feel without going too deep.

CradlesSub Urban

Sub Urban – Cradles [Official Music Video]

Sub Urban, a New York–born artist known as a quintessential figure who rose to fame from TikTok.

His track “Cradles” is one of his signature works.

Because of its strong association with TikTok, you might think of it as a party song, but if you listen closely, you’ll notice its darkness.

While it has a stylish vibe, it’s also a deeply brooding track, so if you’re looking to sink into a mood, be sure to give it a listen.

Breaking The HabitLinkin Park

Breaking the Habit (Official Music Video) [HD UPGRADE] – Linkin Park

If you’re looking for an energetic song with a dark edge, I recommend “Breaking The Habit.” It’s known as one of Linkin Park’s signature tracks.

Linkin Park is famous for having many dark songs, and this one is no exception, with lyrics that carry a somber mood.

That said, it’s not simply dark—the melody and overall feel also convey a sense of anger, which is striking.

Be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well.

No Time To DieBillie Eilish

Billie Eilish – No Time To Die (Official Audio)

Billie Eilish, a singer-songwriter from the United States who enjoys immense support from young people around the world.

Today she’s a leading figure in stylish musical aesthetics, but until she gained global recognition with 2019’s “bad guy,” she was known as a representative artist of so-called “dark” songs.

Among her works, the one I especially recommend is “No Time To Die.” While the melody is very simple, its powerful message and her lyrical vocals create a heavy, evocative mood.

WreckedImagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons – Wrecked (Official Music Video)

Imagine Dragons’ masterpiece “Wrecked.” If you’re in the mood to wallow in sadness, this song is for you.

At first glance it seems like a simple breakup song, but it carries a pervasive darkness beneath the surface.

The lyrics, which depict a man who, after parting with the one he loves, gradually turns into someone he hates, really cut deep.

The melody also matches that mood with a darker tone, so if you want to sink even further into your feelings after a breakup, be sure to give it a listen.

SLOW DANCING IN THE DARKJoji

Joji – SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK

George is a world-renowned singer who represents Japan.

Many of you might be thinking, “Wait, he’s Japanese?” George is half Australian and half Japanese, and he originally started out as a YouTuber.

He is now active as a singer and has achieved major success, including reaching No.

1 on the Billboard charts.

His song “SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK” is one of his signature works—a dark track characterized by a distinctive, understated haziness often described as trip-pop.