11 Underrated Joji Songs: Must-Hear Tracks

Hey there, music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and music aficionado.

Today, I’ve got something special for all you fans of Joji, an artist who’s been redefining the music scene with his unique blend of lo-fi and R&B.

I’ve noticed that while some of his tracks have soared in popularity, there are still a bunch of gems that haven’t received the recognition they truly deserve.

That’s why I decided to dive deep into Joji’s discography and handpick 11 underrated tracks that are absolute must-listens.

Whether you’re a die-hard Joji fan or just love discovering new tunes, this list is going to hit the right notes, showcasing the depth and versatility of this incredible artist. So, turn up the volume and let’s explore these hidden treasures together!

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

List Of Underrated Joji Songs

Underrated Joji songs in a list format:

1. “Ew”

From his 2020 album “Nectar,” released under 88rising and 12Tone Music, “Ew” is a profound opening to an album that explores vulnerability. This track stands out for its orchestral backing, which melds seamlessly with Joji’s haunting vocals. It sets the tone for the album, showcasing his growth as an artist and his ability to convey deep emotions through a mix of gentle piano and a swelling string section. It’s a song that resonates with those who have experienced longing and loss, making it a personal favorite.

2. “Like You Do”

Also from “Nectar,” “Like You Do” is a heart-wrenching ballad that dives deep into the themes of unrequited love and the fear of being unmatched in affection. Released in 2020 under 88rising, this track stands out for its minimalist approach, allowing Joji’s raw and emotive voice to take center stage. The simplicity of the arrangement, coupled with the poignant lyrics, makes it a track that deserves more attention for its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.

3. “Attention”

Featured on the 2018 album “Ballads 1,” released under 88rising, “Attention” is a gritty, lo-fi track that contrasts sharply with some of Joji’s more melodic tunes. The distorted guitar and raw vocals give this song an edge that’s reflective of inner turmoil and the craving for genuine connection in a digital age. It’s a standout track for its honest portrayal of the human need for acknowledgment, both in personal relationships and in the wider world.

4. “Nitrous”

Another gem from “Nectar,” “Nitrous” is an upbeat track that provides a contrast to some of the album’s more somber tunes. Released in 2020 under 88rising, this song showcases Joji’s versatility, blending elements of hip-hop and R&B. The production is slick, with a catchy beat that makes it perfect for a drive. Despite its upbeat nature, the lyrics delve into themes of escapism and the fleeting nature of happiness, adding depth to what might first appear as just a feel-good track.

5. “Demons”

From his 2018 EP “In Tongues,” released under Empire and 88rising, “Demons” is a melancholic, introspective track that explores themes of self-doubt and personal demons. The minimalist production, featuring a haunting melody and subdued beats, allows the focus to be on Joji’s emotive vocals and introspective lyrics. It’s a song that many can relate to, making it a hidden gem in his discography for its relatability and the way it resonates with listeners’ own struggles.

6. “Test Drive”

Featured on “Ballads 1,” “Test Drive” is a standout track for its shift towards a more mainstream sound while still retaining Joji’s signature melancholy. Released in 2018 under 88rising, the song blends elements of R&B and pop, with a catchy chorus that’s hard to forget. It’s about the uncertainties of a new relationship and the fear of commitment, themes that are universally relatable. The song’s more polished production sets it apart from his earlier work, showcasing his evolution as an artist.

7. “Yeah Right”

Also from “Ballads 1,” “Yeah Right” is a track that combines Joji’s lo-fi roots with a more modern, trap-infused sound. Released in 2018 under 88rising, this song captures the complexities of a toxic relationship, with its moody beats and introspective lyrics. It’s a song that strikes a balance between being introspective and sonically engaging, making it a standout track for its honest depiction of a relationship’s darker side.

8. “Will He”

From the “In Tongues” EP, “Will He” is a haunting ballad that delves into the aftermath of a breakup. Released in 2017 under Empire and 88rising, this song is notable for its melancholic piano melody and Joji’s raw, emotional vocals. The track’s introspective nature and its exploration of lingering feelings for a past lover make it a deeply moving piece, resonating with anyone who has experienced a difficult parting.

9. “Run”

“Run” is a track from the 2020 album “Nectar,” released under 88rising. It stands out for its shift towards a more rock-inspired sound, with its powerful guitar solo and Joji’s impassioned vocals. The song explores the desire to escape from a suffocating relationship and the realization that running away doesn’t always solve

Fun Facts: Underrated Joji Songs

1. “Ew”

• Music Video Collaboration: For “Ew,” Joji collaborated with renowned director Andrew Donoho, known for his work with artists like Janelle Monáe. The music video’s cinematic quality adds an extra layer of depth to the song’s emotional resonance.
• Orchestral Elements: This track is distinct for its use of orchestral elements, a departure from Joji’s usual lo-fi beats. The lush string arrangements were carefully crafted to complement the song’s introspective nature.

2. “Like You Do”

• Fan Favorite: Despite not being a mainstream hit, “Like You Do” has become a fan favorite, often cited in online forums and social media as one of Joji’s most emotionally impactful songs.
• Vocal Range Showcase: This track is a testament to Joji’s vocal range, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion through both lower and higher registers, a skill not always evident in his earlier music.

3. “Attention”

• Distorted Guitar: The use of distorted guitar in “Attention” marks a notable sonic shift for Joji. This element brings a raw, gritty feel to the song, aligning with its theme of craving genuine human connection.
• Collaboration with Shlohmo: This track was co-produced by Shlohmo, a well-known figure in the electronic and hip-hop music scenes, adding a unique touch to the song’s production.

4. “Nitrous”

• Upbeat Yet Deep: “Nitrous” stands out in Joji’s catalog for its upbeat tempo, a contrast to his typically slower, more melancholic tracks. However, it still maintains depth with its introspective lyrics.
• Music Production Evolution: This song is an example of Joji’s evolving music production skills, blending various elements from different genres to create a unique sound.

5. “Demons”

• Minimalist Music Video: The music video for “Demons” is known for its minimalist approach, focusing on Joji in a single setting. This simplicity complements the song’s introspective and somber tone.
• Live Performances: “Demons” is often highlighted in Joji’s live performances for its ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level, showcasing the power of its lyrics and melody.

6. “Test Drive”

• Shift to a More Mainstream Sound: “Test Drive” marks Joji’s shift towards a sound that is more aligned with mainstream R&B and pop, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
• Music Video Aesthetics: The music video for “Test Drive” is praised for its aesthetic appeal, blending retro and modern visuals to create a unique viewing experience.

7. “Yeah Right”

• Combination of Genres: “Yeah Right” combines lo-fi, R&B, and trap, illustrating Joji’s ability to blend different musical styles effectively.
• Lyrical Honesty: This track is noted for its straightforward and honest lyrics, resonating with listeners who have experienced complex and challenging relationships.

8. “Will He”

• Emotional Piano Melody: “Will He” is renowned for its haunting piano melody, which has become one of the most recognizable aspects of the song, setting the tone for its emotional depth.
• Breakup Song: This track is often referred to as one of the quintessential modern breakup songs, capturing the essence of lingering feelings and heartache.

9. “Run”

• Rock Influence: “Run” showcases a surprising rock influence, a departure from Joji’s typical sound, featuring a notable guitar solo that adds a dramatic flair to the song.
• Themes of Escape: The song’s theme of wanting to escape from a restrictive relationship is a relatable sentiment, resonating with listeners who have felt trapped in similar situations.

And there you have it, folks! A deep dive into some of Joji’s most underrated yet incredibly captivating tracks. Each song tells a unique story, highlighting his musical versatility and emotional depth. I hope this journey through Joji’s lesser-known masterpieces has been as enlightening for you as it has been for me. Keep exploring and stay tuned for more musical treasures!

Thanks for reading.

TBone