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)
TSUNAMISazan Ōrusutāzu
Centered around Keisuke Kuwata, who is also active as a solo artist, Southern All Stars is a five-member rock band that has been at the forefront of the J-POP scene since their debut.
Their 44th single, “TSUNAMI,” used as the theme song for the segment “Mirai Nikki III” within the variety show “Uchan Nan-chan no Honto no Tokoro!,” was released on January 26, 2000 and became a massive hit.
Its lyrical melody intertwines with the lyrics’ narrative to evoke vivid scenes.
Achieving the remarkable milestone of triple million sales, it stands as one of Southern All Stars’ signature songs.
whistlingMr.Children
Mr.Children is a four-piece rock band that has produced numerous hit songs, known for their unique melodies—Japanese lyrics that evoke the feel of English—and a broad musical range.
Their 18th single, “Kuchibue,” released on January 13, 2000, is a track that enjoys strong popularity among fans.
Beginning with an intro marked by a distinctive guitar arpeggio, its pop yet subtly nostalgic ensemble recalls the atmosphere of the band’s early days.
Despite having no tie-in, it was certified Triple Platinum—a hit tune packed with the essence of Mr.Children’s appeal.
bewildermentGLAY
GLAY is a four-member rock band that has set numerous milestones in the J-pop scene and continues to be highly active today.
Their 20th single “Tomadoi,” released on August 23, 2000 as a double A-side with “SPECIAL THANKS,” was used as the theme song for the variety show “UNNAN no Hontoko! Mirai Nikki.” With its emotional melody carried by a catchy guitar riff, the track reaffirms GLAY’s exceptional pop sensibilities.
It’s a million-selling number that symbolizes the band’s momentum at the time, and the members have publicly said it’s one of their favorite songs.
NEO UNIVERSEL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
L’Arc~en~Ciel is a four-member rock band that enjoys support both in Japan and abroad, known for creatively crafted songs born from the fact that all members are the main composers.
Their 19th single, “NEO UNIVERSE,” released on January 19, 2000 as a double A-side with “finale,” was featured in a commercial for Shiseido’s lipstick brand “PN.” Its airy, pop arrangement evokes a distinctly near-futuristic feel.
It’s also a million-selling hit that marked the dawn of the 2000s J-pop scene—one whose contrast with “finale,” used as the theme song for the film Ring 0: Birthday, is well worth noting.
SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu
Singer-songwriter Masaharu Fukuyama, known for his alluring deep voice and cute persona, captivates fans with his energetic live performances.
His 15th single, “Sakurazaka,” used as the theme song for the ‘Mirai Nikki V’ segment of the variety show ‘U-nan no Hontoko!,’ was released on April 26, 2000, and set the all-time record for first-week sales by a male solo artist.
The lyrics, drawn from Fukuyama’s own real-life experiences, overflow with a heart-wrenching poignancy.
It’s a ballad that truly represents the 2000s—no wonder it achieved double million sales.
Crime and PunishmentShiina Ringo
It is one of the songs that symbolize the early 2000s music scene.
Showcasing Ringo Sheena’s distinctive worldview and masterful word choice, the piece drew major attention immediately upon release.
The background of its creation during a recuperation period from overwork also lends the song a profound depth of meaning.
Positioned as a 1970s-style rock ballad, its performance—sung with trills and a near-screaming, raspy voice—is overwhelming.
Released in January 2000, it peaked at No.
4 on the Oricon charts and became a major hit, selling over 540,000 copies in total.
While it seems to depict heartbreak and loneliness, it actually portrays a dialogue with oneself and inner conflict, making it a work of great depth.
It’s a highly recommended track for times when you’re struggling in life and want to face yourself.
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?