Songs that were popular in 2020. A roundup of hit songs from Reiwa 2.
In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the J-POP hits of 2020!
There were all kinds of songs, including theme songs for TV dramas and anime, as well as tracks that went viral on the internet.
Some songs were released in response to the COVID-19 pandemic that truly began in 2020, and many of you may still remember them vividly.
From tracks that make you think, “Oh right, that one!” with a sense of nostalgia to songs that have become staples you “still listen to today,” we’ve gathered a wide selection.
Please enjoy reading this article as you revisit these tunes.
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Songs that were popular in 2020. Summary of Reiwa 2’s hit songs (1–10)
I LOVE…Ofisharu Higedan Dism
Released in 2020, this song paints warm emotions that linger in the listener’s heart.
Feelings of thinking about someone, and precious moments with a loved one—its lyrics gently sing about various forms of love, leaving a strong impression.
It also drew attention as the theme song for the TBS drama “Love Lasts Forever” (Koi wa Tsuzuku yo Doko Made mo).
The comfortable melody characteristic of Official Hige Dandism pairs exquisitely with Fujiwara’s clear, transparent vocals.
It’s a recommended track for when you want to spend sweet time with your partner or reflect on someone dear.
It’s sure to stay close to your heart.
Kaikai KitanEVE
Eve’s song drew huge attention as the opening theme for the first cour of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen.
With its exhilarating, fast-paced melody and emotionally stirring lyrics, this track grabs listeners’ hearts.
Eve’s high-tone vocals are exquisitely blended into the arrangement, giving the song the power to lift a discouraged spirit in an instant.
Released in December 2020, it not only earned high marks on the Billboard Japan charts but also achieved major success with over 300 million total streams.
The ear-pleasing guitar phrases and meticulous arrangement reveal new charms with every listen.
Because you are hereUru
The song by Uru, who is active as a singer-songwriter, was released in March 2020.
Chosen as the theme song for the TBS Sunday drama “Ship of Theseus,” its lyrics beautifully complement the story about bonds with loved ones.
Uru’s clear, transparent voice resonates deeply as it rides a gentle, tender melody.
Included on the album “Orion Blue,” the track captured many hearts, earning Platinum certification.
It’s a recommended song for times when you want to feel the bond with someone important or be soothed by a voice that stays close to your heart.
Songs that were popular in 2020. Summary of hit songs from Reiwa 2 (11–20)
Ghost in the FlowersYorushika
A Yorushika song that portrays refreshing summer memories and a bittersweet farewell.
Its clear, translucent melody and heartfelt lyrics are captivating.
Written specifically as the theme song for the film “A Whisker Away,” released in July 2020, it beautifully captures the movie’s worldview.
As a signature track by the duo band of producer n-buna, formerly active as a Vocaloid creator, and singer suis, it’s beloved by many fans.
It’s the perfect song to play at summer’s end, especially when you want to look back on unforgettable memories from your youth.
Emeraldback number
A song whose delicate melody and heartrending lyrics resonate deeply.
Released in October 2020 as the theme song for TBS’s Sunday drama “Dangerous Venus,” it drew attention by debuting at No.
2 on the download charts in its first week.
The expression likening unwavering devotion to a beloved person to a loyal dog is especially striking.
The gentle yet weighty lyrics—one of back number’s key charms—blend beautifully with the ethereal, graceful melody line.
Spotlighted as a track that enriches the drama’s worldview, it was also performed on TV programs such as Music Station.
Give it a listen whenever you want to feel the bittersweet fragility of love.
PerfumeEito
This is a song by singer-songwriter Eito, and many of you may have come across it on music streaming services like Spotify or through YouTube recommendations.
Although the track was originally released in April 2019, it gained renewed attention in 2020 after going viral on TikTok.
The simple acoustic guitar accompaniment paired with an intensely expressive vocal performance is striking.
The particularly distinctive phrasing in the chorus and the catchy melody are must-hear highlights.
This work is a classic ballad about a past romance, depicting how memories and lingering feelings for an ex-girlfriend are brought back by the scent of perfume.
Its relatable, heartrending lyrics are sure to resonate with listeners.
catDISH//
It’s a famous song also known for being written and composed by singer-songwriter Aimyon.
Originally released in August 2017 as a coupling track to “Bokutachi ga Yarimashita,” it made a comeback in 2020 when an acoustic version was performed on the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE.
The song’s appeal lies in its catchy, Aimyon-esque concept of likening the ex who left the protagonist to a cat.
You can feel Aimyon’s signature style throughout—in the familiar melody and the choice of words in the lyrics.
Combined with Takumi Kitamura’s sweet vocals, it’s a joy to sing at karaoke, so give it a try!