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 hit songs from Reiwa 2 (11–20)
rainbowSuda Masaki
This is a song released in November 2020 by actor Masaki Suda, who is also actively pursuing a music career.
The lyrics and composition were done by singer-songwriter Huey Ishizaki, giving the track a soft, friendly feel.
The real charm of the piece lies in the message woven into the lyrics—a vow to love someone special for a lifetime.
At the same time, it also contains expressions that can be read as a friendship song, which makes it fitting that it was chosen as the theme song for the film “STAND BY ME Doraemon 2.” For karaoke, why not take your time and sing along to its gentle melody line?
Heralding springyama
A song by yama that poignantly captures the protagonist’s emotions with a clear, aching vocal, standing alone in the dead of night in Tokyo.
It deftly portrays a young person’s feelings—carrying loneliness and anxiety in the darkness, yet tinged with anticipation for a new season.
Its wistful melody and delicate arrangement beautifully depict the sensitivity of urban youth.
Released in April 2020, the track was included as a bonus on the first album, “the meaning of life.” It later peaked at No.
7 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and ranked No.
30 on the 2020 year-end chart.
Like a cityscape before dawn, it’s a song recommended for those whose hearts hold a mixture of unease and hope.
I’d rather die.Fuji Kaze
A standout masterpiece by Fujii Kaze, marked by a melody reminiscent of Showa-era kayōkyoku.
There’s a dark, somewhat decadent atmosphere drifting through it.
This track is featured on the acclaimed album HELP EVER HURT NEVER, released in May 2020.
While Fujii Kaze is often associated with a refined R&B image, this work takes a turn, passionately singing of an ultimate love that would choose death over losing the beloved.
Its allure lies in the imbalance between a light, R&B-based sound and the depiction of intense obsession and devotion.
Sparked by social media, it exploded in popularity overseas, reaching No.
4 on Spotify’s global chart in 2022.
It’s the perfect song for those who want to express themselves with a selection that stands out from the crowd, or for nights when you want to fully immerse yourself in the world of music.
Jenny High WashJenīhai
This song was released in May 2020, a time when the importance of handwashing was emphasized during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Set over a hip-hop-style beat, the languid, rap-like delivery of the lyrics gives it a distinctly stylish vibe.
The song carries a positive message: while maintaining the physical distance recommended during the pandemic, let’s keep our hearts close.
It might refresh your mood when you feel like adding a splash of color to a monotonous day.
cardiganTaylor Swift
Speaking of 2020, we can’t leave out the Grammy-winning “cardigan.” It’s a track released as the lead single from global singer Taylor Swift’s album Folklore.
Throughout the song, she uses clever, wordplay-like phrases to depict a lovely romance—sure to make your heart flutter when you listen.
However, there’s also a theory that it’s about a boyfriend’s infidelity, and keeping that in mind may give you a very different impression.
WHATS POPPINJack Harlow
Jack Harlow, who’s active as both a rapper and an actor, titled his debut album’s lead track “Whats Poppin.” It made a huge splash worldwide and is memorable for being nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance.
Over a piano-driven beat, he raps about where he’s at right now.
It’s packed with punchlines, making it a highly satisfying listen.
Be sure to check it out.
Songs that were popular in 2020: A roundup of hit songs from Reiwa 2 (21–30)
Life Is Good (Official Music Video) ft. DrakeFUTURE
The star-studded collaboration “Life Is Good ft.
Drake” has been a hot topic.
This track is a hip-hop song by Future featuring Canadian rapper Drake.
Rumors spread on social media even before its release, and it became a massive hit as soon as it dropped.
A hallmark of the song is that the two rap in different styles—and even over different beats.
The shared B-boy spirit you can feel from these two, despite their many differences, is its greatest appeal.
In conclusion
We’ve introduced a wide range of Japanese songs that were hits in 2020.
There were theme songs chosen for popular TV dramas, themes for beloved national anime, and tracks that went viral on the internet! Many of these songs are still cherished by listeners as timeless staples.
Why not take this opportunity to revisit the hit songs of 2020?