[2000–2009] A roundup of theme songs from popular dramas!

Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro ｢Best Friend｣ Official Music Video

A heartwarming song that gently sings of deep gratitude toward a best friend and the memories of walking together in mutual support.

Released in June 2001 as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Churasan,” this Kiroro track expresses feelings for a precious presence that always stays close during times of sadness or anxiety, conveyed through clear, pure vocals and the sound of piano.

Also included on the album “Four Leaves Clover,” it has become a standard often performed at life’s milestones, such as graduation and wedding ceremonies.

Naughty SunORANGE RANGE

ORANGE RANGE “Ikenai Taiyō” Music Video

A pop tune with an exhilarating, refreshing sound that left a powerful impression as the opening theme for the Fuji TV drama “Hanazakari no Kimitachi e ~ Ikemen Paradise ~.” It brilliantly captures the world of the youthful school romantic comedy starring Maki Horikita, Shun Oguri, and Toma Ikuta.

Showcasing ORANGE RANGE’s signature, inventive sound-making, the track was released in July 2007 and continues to be beloved as a karaoke staple.

It’s recommended when you want to feel bright and positive, or when you want to look back on summer memories.

SEASONSHamasaki Ayumi

Ayumi Hamasaki / SEASONS

A memorable masterpiece that stands as one of the defining ballads of the 2000s.

Released in 2006 as Ayumi Hamasaki’s 16th single, it portrays the transience of life and hope for the future through the shifting of the seasons.

Chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “Weather Forecaster’s Lover,” starring Koichi Sato and Izumi Inamori, it strikingly colored the romantic story of a protagonist working as a weather forecaster.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side when you’re at a crossroads in life or feeling uncertain about the future.

Kiss meKOH+

Kiss Shite

This song brilliantly captures the world of the mystery drama “Galileo,” in which genius physicist Manabu Yukawa and rookie detective Kaoru Utsumi solve difficult cases through scientific approaches.

With striking lyrics that incorporate scientific terminology and a soothing melody woven by Ko Shibasaki’s clear, transparent vocals, it skillfully portrays the emotions of a detective awkward in love.

Written and composed by Masaharu Fukuyama, it was released in November 2007 as KOH+’s debut work.

By playing over the drama’s ending, it added a sense of refreshment and lingering resonance after serious developments, leaving a deep impression on viewers.

Love so sweetarashi

ARASHI – Love so sweet [Official Music Video]

This is a love song with a sweet, gentle melody that wraps you in the warmth and bittersweetness of being in love.

Released in 2007 as Arashi’s 18th single, it drew attention as the theme song for the popular series Hana Yori Dango 2, which portrays the romance between Tsukasa Domyoji played by Jun Matsumoto and Tsukushi Makino played by Mao Inoue.

By likening feelings for a loved one to natural elements such as the sky, the sun, and flowers, it vividly conveys the emotions of lovers who feel physically apart.

It’s a song that quietly stays by the side of those in a long-distance relationship or waiting to be reunited with someone dear.

I believeayaka

Ayaka – I believe

A powerful anthem that sings of the courage and resolve to stay true to yourself.

Released as the theme song for the 2006 TBS drama “Rondo,” starring Yutaka Takenouchi and Choi Ji-woo, the track drew major attention as the main theme for a Japan–Korea co-produced suspense series.

Ayaka’s commanding vocals blend beautifully with lyrics that capture genuine feelings—struggling with doubts yet striving to look forward—continuing to resonate with many listeners today.

It’s a reassuring, motivational song that gives you a push when you’re searching for your own path or about to take a new step.

MiracleGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Kiseki

The drama ROOKIES depicts delinquent high school baseball players growing through their encounter with a passionate teacher.

Released in May 2008 as the show’s theme song, this track is a gem of a love song that describes meeting someone as a “miracle” and the days walked together as a “trace.” ROOKIES, the story of a hot-blooded teacher who reforms delinquent students played by Ryuta Sato, became a hugely popular series with ratings exceeding 30% at the time and was even adapted into a film in 2009.

The song was also used in the movie version, coloring the world of both the drama and the film.

It’s a perfect song for expressing feelings to someone special, and is often used at life’s milestones such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.