Autumn songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic fall tunes and recommended popular tracks.
From the 1990s, when CDs sold like hotcakes, into the 2000s, when the shift to digital gradually took hold.
As more people began enjoying music on digital music players, cell phones, and YouTube, the music industry truly entered a turning point.
In this article, we’ll introduce hit autumn songs from the 2000s, a time when the way we listened to music began to change.
We’ve gathered a variety of tracks—from songs that evoke the slightly wistful mood of fall to tunes many people downloaded to their phones.
You might just reunite with the songs that colored your youth.
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Autumn songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic autumn tracks and recommended popular songs (51–60)
Twilight SurroundRIP SLYME
This is the 10th single by the hip-hop group RIP SLYME, who made waves with the announcement that they would resume activities as a three-member lineup in 2022.
Released as a lead single from their 4th album, “MASTERPIECE,” the track features a sprightly yet delicate acoustic guitar, creating a floating atmosphere that evokes the feeling of autumn.
The pleasantly rhymed lyrics and melodic rap draw you into the song’s world as you listen.
It’s a nostalgically groovy hip-hop tune with an outstandingly addictive quality that makes you want to keep it on repeat.
Sunset MarchThe Back Horn
The song released by THE BACK HORN in 2005 strongly reflects the band’s distinctive alternative rock style.
Its intense guitar riffs and powerful vocals are striking, delivering an energetic sound that also carries a hint of nostalgia.
Included on the album “Ningen Program,” the track is known as a representative work from the band’s early years.
The lyrics, which express everyday melancholy, regret, and the resolve to move forward into tomorrow, are particularly compelling and have been highly praised by fans.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to at dusk—perfect for the autumn mood.
I remember youYUI
Released with the tagline “An original song, bittersweet yet honest, brought to you this fall,” this is singer-songwriter YUI’s sixth single.
The lyrics, written from the perspective of Koji Fujishiro—the boyfriend of the heroine in the film Midnight Sun, in which YUI herself stars—are heartrending, giving the track a wistful air.
Her clear, translucent voice over acoustic guitar further enhances the beauty of the song’s message.
The fragile ensemble blends with the autumn atmosphere, making this a sentimental number that may just bring tears to your eyes.
Akane dragonfly (Akiakane)mawari
Mawari’s song, a single released in October 2000, is a work themed around the nostalgia and bittersweet feelings that come with the arrival of autumn.
Classified as J-Pop, the track captivates listeners with its pleasant melody and lyrics.
The words, woven with autumn scenery, evoke memories of the past and fleeting moments.
Characterized by a quiet melodic line, the piece is structured to leave a deep emotional impact on the listener.
Released under the King Records label, the single includes the title track as well as songs like “Oitekanaide” (“Don’t Leave Me Behind”).
It’s a perfect song for those who want to face their inner selves while feeling the autumn dusk.
miracleKōda Kumi
In the early 2000s, this song by Kumi Koda captured the hearts of many listeners.
It was also used as the theme song for NHK’s J.League broadcasts and gained widespread popularity.
The lyrics are filled with courage and hope for reclaiming your dreams and what’s important to you when you feel you’re about to lose them.
Koda’s gentle yet powerful vocals blend perfectly with the autumn atmosphere and resonate deeply.
Since its release in February 2005, the song has been included on various albums and has become a staple in her live performances.
It’s a perfect track for those slightly lonely autumn nights when you want to lift your spirits.
Before our feelings overlap…Hirai Ken
This is the 22nd single by singer-songwriter Ken Hirai, who has released numerous hit songs thanks to his powerful vocals and distinctive edge voice.
The track was produced as the theme song for Toyota’s Corolla Fielder commercial, and its emotional arrangement, opening a cappella, immediately grabs your heart.
The melody, woven with a soulful yet wistful vocal tone, seems to harmonize naturally with autumn imagery and scenery.
With lyrical lines that evoke a sentimental mood, it’s a ballad best enjoyed while feeling the crisp air of fall.
That summerShibata Jun
It’s a deeply emotional ballad by Jun Shibata.
Memories of a bygone summer and regrets over a lost love are conveyed through her delicate, translucent vocals and a simple piano arrangement.
Included on the album “Watashi,” released in March 2005, it reached No.
6 on the Oricon charts.
The lyrics capture a poignant longing for reunion that resonates deeply with listeners.
It’s especially recommended for listening alone on an autumn evening—a perfect song for soothing the pain of heartbreak or reflecting on cherished memories with someone special.
Heaven will wait for me.Shunsuke Kiyokiba
Shunsuke Kiyokiba’s 2007 song, released as a movie theme, is a medium-tempo ballad that blends poignancy with warmth.
Written and composed by Kiyokiba himself, it features powerful yet delicate vocals.
Crafted to accompany a film themed around the interweaving of friendship and love, the song is performed with rich emotion.
It is also included on Kiyokiba’s second album, IMAGE.
When released as a single, the first-press edition included a live version, allowing listeners to experience the appeal of his live performances.
It’s a recommended track for anyone who has gone through a farewell with someone dear in the autumn.
ginkgoYūsuke
This song gently wraps the bittersweet feelings of autumn—something everyone has experienced—in warm, tender lyrics and melody.
Carried by Yusuke’s vocals, a love story unfolds beautifully across the four seasons.
Released in November 2009 as Yusuke’s third single, it was also featured in a commercial for Marukome’s “Liquid Miso.” Its melody line, reminiscent of the classical masterpiece “Canon,” leaves a strong impression and, together with its deeply moving lyrics, stirs the listener’s emotions.
It’s a track you’ll want to hear on a slightly lonely autumn evening.
World of AzureRemioromen
This is the seventh single by Remioromen, a three-piece rock band known for major hits like “Konayuki” and “March 9,” who announced a hiatus in 2012.
Chosen as the song for the “Chakushin★Uta♪” commercial, it opens with a floating, arpeggiated guitar that instantly puts you in a refreshing mood.
The guitar riff, rich with depth, and the soaring chorus conjure images of being drawn up into the autumn sky.
Unlike many autumn songs with nostalgic arrangements, this rock tune suits the high, expansive skies of fall.