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 smash hits! A roundup of iconic J-POP songs that were popular in 2000 (11–20)
Paradoxw-inds.
w-inds.
is a dance-vocal unit that made a striking debut in the early 2000s.
This early signature track is a dance number that fuses a four-on-the-floor beat with a wistful melody.
The lyrics, depicting missed connections and inner contradictions, reflect the honest emotions of teenagers and resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in October 2001 as their third single, the song’s success earned them the Best New Artist Award at that year’s Japan Record Awards.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to immerse themselves once again in the world of Heisei-era hit songs.
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.
Wait & See ~Risk~Utada Hikaru
Singer-songwriter Hikaru Utada, who debuted at 15 and has continued to captivate listeners with an ever-evolving musical style.
The fifth single, “Wait & See ~Risk~,” produced with Jam & Lewis, shipped 1.02 million copies by its release day on April 19, 2000.
Her emotional vocals—hard to believe from a teenager—made a powerful impact that astonished many listeners at the time.
The modern, CG-driven music video also drew attention, making this million-selling hit an undeniable smash.
GibbsShiina Ringo
Ringo Sheena, also known as the central figure of Tokyo Jihen, is a singer-songwriter whose distinctive lyrical world stands out for its originality.
Released on January 26, 2000 as the fifth single and a lead track from her second album “Shōso Strip,” “Gips” became a major hit alongside the simultaneously released sixth single.
The edgy vocals paired with a noisy guitar ensemble deliver a powerful rock impact, even though it’s a ballad.
It’s a timeless masterpiece worthy of its million-seller status.
EverythingMISIA
Singer MISIA, whose five-octave voice has made her a popular, Asia-defining artist beyond just Japan, released her 7th single “Everything” on October 25, 2000 as the theme song for the drama Yamato Nadeshiko.
This ballad became the best-selling single by a female artist in the 2000s.
Its ensemble featuring ethereal strings and her soulful vocals still retains an undimmed allure today.
It’s also a karaoke staple and a double-million seller.
Cherry Blossom Timeaiko
Here is the song that Aiko released in February 2000, heralding the dawn of a new century.
Set against the backdrop of late spring and the beginning of summer, it portrays feelings of love that shift along with the changing seasons.
The wish for unchanging love in ever-changing days is expressed through the image of cherry blossom petals.
The song was released as a single and remains one of the most beloved tracks among Aiko’s fans.
It’s especially recommended for listening in spring, when you can feel the season in the air.
How about enjoying it with someone special at the start of a new season?
Nothing but blockbuster hits! A roundup of iconic J-pop songs that were popular in 2000 (21–30)
King of SummerKinKi Kids
KinKi Kids, an idol duo from the Kansai region who built a unique Johnny’s brand and continue to work energetically while showcasing their individual personalities.
Their 10th single “Natsu no Ousama,” released on June 21, 2000 as a double A-side with “Mou Kimi Igai Aisenai,” was used as the theme song for the TV drama Summer Snow starring member Tsuyoshi Domoto.
Its fresh melody and upbeat off-beat rhythm perfectly capture the summery vibe implied by the title.
An emotional hit tune certified Double Platinum.