All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
In the 2020s, the early-2000s culture known as “Y2K” is gaining attention as a fresh trend among younger people.
The rediscovery of fashion and music unique to the 2000s—when you could feel the frenzy of entering a new century—seems poised to spark new forms of expression once again.
So what kinds of songs drove trends and dominated the charts in the year 2000, the very beginning of that decade?
This article introduces the J-POP smash hits released in 2000.
Whether those years were your youth or you hadn’t even been born yet, we hope you enjoy!
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Nothing but massive hits! A roundup of iconic J-POP songs that were popular in 2000 (1–10)
Sky of OblivionSADS
SADS’s fourth single was used as the theme song for the TBS drama Ikebukuro West Gate Park in 2000 and became a major hit.
It is characterized by Kiyoharu’s distinctive vocals and a sound that incorporates elements of heavy rock and glam rock.
The song features profound lyrics filled with themes of loneliness, introspection, and self-reliance.
The calm resolve in the face of adversity and the inner strength conveyed by the lyrics resonate deeply with listeners.
Why not listen to this track and trust your own voice as you move forward in life?
LOVE2000hitomi
This one song by hitomi ushers in the dawn of a new century.
Her powerful, forward-looking vocals sing of hopes for a new era.
The track was also chosen as the image song for Nippon TV’s “Gekikukan Pro Yakyu 2000.” It expresses a yearning for true love and strength—feelings that resonate in the world of sports, including baseball.
Released in June 2000, the song is also included on the album LOVE LIFE.
It’s known as a favorite of Naoko Takahashi, the women’s marathon gold medalist at the Sydney Olympics.
It’s a song that gives a gentle push to anyone setting out on a new challenge.
Lion HeartSMAP
Despite being hailed as a national group and enjoying immense popularity, the five-member idol group SMAP disbanded in 2016.
Their 32nd single, “Lion Heart,” used as the theme song for the TV drama Food Fight starring member Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, has been known as one of SMAP’s signature songs since its release on August 30, 2000.
Its lyrical yet catchy melody, together with the message of its lyrics, truly stirs the heart.
Boosted by the popularity of its B-side track “Orange,” it became a million-selling hit tune.
Nothing but smash hits! A roundup of iconic J-POP songs that were popular in 2000 (11–20)
On the hill where the moon is visible tonightB’z
B’z, the solitary rock unit that has produced numerous hit numbers over their long career and profoundly influenced a wide range of musicians.
Their 27th single, “Konya Tsuki no Mieru Oka ni,” written as the theme song for the TV drama “Beautiful Life: Futari de Ita Hibi,” became a massive hit, achieving million-seller status following its release on February 9, 2000, aided by the drama’s popularity.
The arrangement, which begins with a striking acoustic guitar intro, creates an atmosphere that conjures vivid scenes just by listening.
It’s an emotional hit tune born from a deep reading of the drama’s story.
SEASONSHamasaki Ayumi
Ayumi Hamasaki, a singer-songwriter who enjoyed immense popularity in the 1990s as a style icon among teenage girls and dominated the J-POP scene as the “diva of the Heisei era.” Her 16th single, “SEASONS,” which had been used as the theme song for the TV drama “The Weather Forecaster’s Lover” for over two months before its official release on June 7, 2000, is one of her most well-known tracks among many hits.
Its sentimental lyrics and melody likely resonated with a large number of fans at the time, especially women.
The song, which won both the Excellent Work Award and the Lyrics Award at the Japan Record Awards, is a million-selling number that symbolizes the J-POP scene of the 2000s.
Sakura Rain, SomedayMatsu Takako
Takako Matsu’s clear singing voice vividly paints a spring scene filled with fluttering cherry blossoms.
The sorrow of parting and the hope of reunion are conveyed through delicate lyrics and melody.
Released in February 2000, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Omiai Kekkon.” It is also included on Takako Matsu’s third album, “Itsuka, Sakura no Ame ni…”.
When you want to feel both the wistfulness and hope that come with the arrival of spring, try listening to it while watching the cherry blossoms.
Happy Summer WeddingMōningu Musume.
Released in May 2000, this song was Morning Musume’s first single as an 11-member group.
The lyrics center on marriage, with a daughter—having gone through a rebellious phase—expressing gratitude to her parents.
The music video, featuring an Indian-style set and a striking red wedding dress, also drew attention.
It was used as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s “Find the Idol!” and sold approximately 991,000 copies.
The song was later featured in a Nissin Foods commercial.
It’s a recommended track for those stepping into the new life stage of marriage or wishing to express appreciation to their beloved family.