7 Sad Joji Songs: Heartbreak Hits

Hey everyone, TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and passionate music aficionado!

With over 20 years of experience in the music industry, I’ve spun records, curated playlists, and shared the soundtracks of our lives with countless music lovers and fellow DJs.

Today, I’m diving into a genre that’s close to my heart with a list of 7 deeply moving Joji songs.

Why Joji, you ask?

His unique blend of melancholy melodies and soul-stirring lyrics have always resonated with me, capturing the essence of sadness in a way that’s both raw and beautiful.

I’ve chosen these songs because they showcase not just Joji’s talent, but also the emotional depth that music can reach. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his work, I hope this list helps you discover a new dimension to sad songs that only Joji can deliver. Let’s explore the soundscape of emotions together.

Here are the Sad Joji songs that you can check out:

List Of Sad Joji Songs

Sad Joji songs in a list format:

Slow Dancing in the Dark

Released in 2018, “Slow Dancing in the Dark” is from Joji’s album Ballads 1, under the 88rising Music/12Tone Music label. This song is a powerful expression of love and longing, wrapped in a haunting melody that sticks with you long after the song ends. Joji’s raw, emotional vocal delivery perfectly captures the pain of unrequited love and the desperation of wanting someone who’s slipping away. The song’s production, featuring a slow, pulsating beat and dramatic orchestration, adds to the overall melancholy vibe. I chose this song because it showcases Joji’s ability to blend contemporary R&B with elements of electronic music, creating a sound that’s both unique and deeply moving.

Sanctuary

“Sanctuary,” released in 2019, is a track from Joji’s project that further solidifies his position in the music world. This song, part of the album Nectar and released under 88rising, offers a slightly different tone from his usual melancholic themes. It’s a sad yet beautiful ode to finding solace and protection in someone. The song combines ethereal synth lines with a driving beat, creating a backdrop for Joji’s soft, emotive vocals. The reason for including “Sanctuary” is its ability to convey a sense of hope amidst sadness, showcasing Joji’s versatility as an artist. The lyrical depth and the atmospheric production highlight his talent for storytelling through music.

Ew

From his 2020 album Nectar, under the 88rising label, “Ew” is a testament to Joji’s growth as an artist and his flair for creating deeply emotional music. This track stands out for its beautiful piano arrangement and string accompaniments, which together create a somber yet captivating atmosphere. Joji’s heartfelt performance, where he reflects on personal growth and the fear of losing love, resonates with anyone who’s ever felt unsure of their place in someone’s life. My admiration for “Ew” lies in its raw emotional honesty and the intricate arrangement that allows Joji’s vocals to shine, making it a must-listen for those who appreciate the beauty in sadness.

Will He

“Will He” is one of Joji’s earlier hits from his 2017 EP In Tongues, released under the 88rising label. This song delves into the complexities of moving on from a past relationship while questioning if that former lover will ever find someone who can replace the bond they once shared. The melancholic piano chords and sparse, lo-fi beats provide a gloomy backdrop for Joji’s soft, introspective vocals. I chose “Will He” for its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, which showcase Joji’s ability to capture the essence of heartbreak and the uncertainty that comes with it. It’s a beautifully sad song that speaks to the soul.

Test Drive

Featured on the Ballads 1 album and released in 2018 under 88rising/12Tone Music, “Test Drive” explores the theme of commitment issues within a relationship. The song combines Joji’s signature melancholic style with a more upbeat, rhythmic production. Despite its catchier beat, the lyrics reveal a story of love unreciprocated and the feeling of being just an option, not a priority. My fascination with “Test Drive” lies in its juxtaposition of upbeat music and sad lyrics, highlighting Joji’s skill in creating songs that are relatable, catchy, yet deeply melancholic at their core.

Yeah Right

“Yeah Right” is a standout track from the Ballads 1 album, released in 2018. This song dives into the disillusionment with superficial relationships and the search for genuine connection. The minimalist beat, combined with Joji’s somber vocal delivery, creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The reason “Yeah Right” made this list is because of its honest reflection on the emptiness that often comes with fleeting encounters, showcasing Joji’s ability to articulate the more somber aspects of human relationships. It’s a raw, unfiltered look at the longing for something real.

Run

Released in 2020 and part of the Nectar album under 88rising, “Run” is a powerful ballad that showcases Joji’s vocal range and emotional depth. The song features a more rock-influenced sound, with electric guitar solos and a driving rhythm section. It’s a departure from his typical lo-fi, R&B-infused tracks, demonstrating his versatility as an artist. “Run” speaks to the desire to escape from a toxic relationship, yet feeling hopelessly drawn back to it. I included “Run” for its emotional intensity, compelling storytelling, and the way it blends different musical elements to create a truly unforgettable song.

Fun Facts: Sad Joji Songs

Slow Dancing in the Dark

• Chart Success: “Slow Dancing in the Dark” is one of Joji’s most successful tracks, which not only became a viral sensation but also charted on the Billboard Hot 100. This marked a significant milestone in Joji’s music career, showcasing his transition from internet personality to mainstream music artist.

Sanctuary

• Space Odyssey Theme: The music video for “Sanctuary” is inspired by science fiction and space odyssey themes. It features Joji as a captain of a spaceship, blending elements of humor with the song’s emotive tone. The video’s unique concept and aesthetic add an extra layer of intrigue to the song.

Ew

• Live Performances: Joji’s live performance of “Ew” at the 2020 Head in the Clouds Festival, accompanied by a full orchestra, added a new dimension to the song. This performance highlighted Joji’s versatility as an artist and the depth of his music when paired with classical instrumentation.

Will He

• Transition to Serious Music: “Will He” is part of Joji’s first official EP, In Tongues, marking his full transition from comedic content creator to serious musician. This shift was significant for fans who had followed Joji’s earlier internet persona, showcasing his true passion for music and storytelling.

Test Drive

• Artistic Evolution: “Test Drive” reflects Joji’s evolution in sound and production quality, moving towards more polished and complex arrangements compared to his earlier works. This song, among others from the Ballads 1 album, signifies Joji’s growth as an artist and his exploration of different musical styles.

Yeah Right

• DIY Music Video: The music video for “Yeah Right” was initially released as a low-budget, DIY project, which Joji is known for. This approach fits the song’s introspective and raw nature, highlighting his ability to create impactful art without the need for extravagant production.

Run

• Guitar Solo: The guitar solo in “Run” is a standout moment in the song and showcases Joji’s willingness to incorporate rock elements into his music. This solo adds an intense emotional climax to the song, further emphasizing the theme of escape and the complexity of the emotions involved.

Diving into Joji’s melancholic universe reveals not just the depth of his musical talent but also the universal emotions that connect us all. From heart-wrenching ballads to introspective melodies, Joji’s songs are a testament to the beauty found in sadness, showcasing his evolution as a profound storyteller in music.

Thanks for reading.

TBone