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!
- 2000s: A Collection of Hit Karaoke Classics
- [Japanese Music] Masterpieces of 2000s Pop: A roundup of hit songs from 00s J-POP
- Japanese Music of the 2000s: Revival Included! A J-POP Hit Song Special
- An energizing song that was a hit in the 2000s—a classic that gives you strength.
- Heisei-era masterpieces. Hit songs that represent the Heisei period.
- 2000s Japanese Hits | Unforgettable Once You Hear Them! Exquisite Masterpieces
- Nothing but iconic hits that defined an era! 2000s classics popular on TikTok
- Commercial songs from the 2000s. A roundup of nostalgic hits from the 00s.
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- Heisei Song Collection: Iconic Hits That Colored the ’90s and 2000s
- Songs that were popular in 2020. A roundup of hit songs from Reiwa 2.
- Iconic songs by Japanese rock bands from the 2000s [J-Rock]
- Summer Songs That Hit in the 2000s | A Look Back at Nostalgic Summer Tunes!
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.
Secret of my heartKuraki Mai
Singer-songwriter Mai Kuraki drew instant attention when her debut single, despite having no tie-in, became a million seller.
Released on April 26, 2000, her third single “Secret of my heart,” which was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Detective Conan, set a record by becoming her third consecutive million-selling release since her debut.
Her clear, translucent voice and wistful melodies showcase an expressive power hard to believe from a teenager.
It’s a pop tune that felt like the dawn of a new era at the time, and one where you should also pay attention to the different arrangements between the TV-size and full-size versions.
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.