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 blockbuster hits! A roundup of iconic J-pop songs that were popular in 2000 (21–30)
Love Dance SiteMōningu Musume.
While projecting a legendary presence in the idol scene and still working energetically today, the girl group Morning Musume.
followed their massive hit “LOVE Machine” with their 8th single, “Koi no Dance Site,” released on January 26, 2000.
The song won accolades such as Song of the Year at the 14th Japan Gold Disc Awards and the Excellence Award at the 42nd Japan Record Awards, cementing the group’s popularity.
Its oriental-flavored arrangement and danceable beat made it a surefire crowd-pleaser at karaoke back then.
It was also used as the opening theme for the variety show “Find the Idol!” and became a million-selling hit.
Shingo Mama’s Ohay-RockShingo Mama
Shingo Katori, a singer who was popular for his artistic sensibilities and funny persona since his days in SMAP, released his first single under the character “Shingo Mama,” which he played on the variety show Sata☆Sma.
The song, “Shingo Mama no Oha Rock,” came out on August 18, 2000, and became hugely popular, especially among children.
Its memorable catchphrases tied to the concept and character, along with its catchy melody, make it unforgettable after just one listen.
Despite being released on a Friday—typically a disadvantage in Oricon chart tallies—it still reached number one, a pop tune whose million-seller status is easy to understand.
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo
A timeless ballad whose one-of-a-kind vocals by Yo Hitoto resonate like a deep prayer and seep into the heart.
It is said to have been written in the wake of the September 11 attacks, imbued with an earnest wish for peace.
Its universal theme—hoping that happiness will continue for a loved one and for those dear to them—gently envelops listeners’ hearts.
Released in February 2004 as her fifth single, it achieved an astonishing long-run hit, staying on the Oricon charts for 125 consecutive weeks.
It also served as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Tuesday Suspense Theater” and for the film of the same name.
Many people may find themselves resonating with the heartfelt wish for someone precious to be happy.
One Lovearashi
A song whose straightforward vow of love resonates in the heart, carried by a grand melody.
Released in June 2008 as Arashi’s 22nd single, it was selected as the theme song for the blockbuster film “Boys Over Flowers F (Final),” starring group member Jun Matsumoto.
From among all the people in the world, choosing just one and pledging eternal love—the pure and powerful message warmly embraces every listener.
Now a staple wedding song, it may be the perfect choice for expressing your feelings to the one you love on that special wedding day.
NEVER EVERHamasaki Ayumi
This moving song reflects the human quest for eternal truth, set to a majestic melody carried by a graceful triple-time rhythm.
Ayumi Hamasaki sings of a search that began before she was born, conveying a powerful will to move forward—even when hurting others, and at times herself.
Released in March 2001, it drew attention as the theme for Kirin Beverage’s drink “Suppli” commercial and reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was later included on the albums “I am…” and “A BEST 2 -BLACK-,” capturing the hearts of many listeners.
It’s a track to hear when you’re lost and standing still in life—one that will remind you of the importance of holding on to unchanging convictions.
In conclusion
This was still a time when the CD bubble’s afterglow lingered, so the J-pop charts were packed with massive hits and timeless classics.
The big names naturally dominated the rankings, but it might also have been a fortunate era when bands and artists with more alternative sounds could still post solid sales numbers.
Younger music fans, please take this chance to dig in and give these tracks a listen!