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Autumn songs that were hits in the ’90s. Classic and popular tracks in Japanese music.

Autumn songs that were hits in the ’90s. Classic and popular tracks in Japanese music.
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There are many expressions like “the autumn of ____,” but for those of you who’ve come here, I’m guessing “the autumn of music” comes first.

In this article, I’ve put together a collection of autumn songs that were hits in the 1990s! From ballads that perfectly match a scene of dancing autumn leaves to pop tunes with a nostalgic vibe, it’s a playlist packed with the essence of the ’90s.

I think you’ll discover songs that naturally bring back memories of those days when you listen! Please enjoy it to the end!

Autumn songs that were hits in the '90s. Classic and popular Japanese tracks (1–10)

Hello, my friendMatsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya - Hello, My Friend (In Memory of Ayrton Senna)
Hello, my friendMatsutōya Yumi

A song by Yumi Matsutoya (Yuming) that was used as the theme for the drama “Kimi to Ita Natsu,” which featured Asaka Seto and Issei Ishida.

It feels perfectly fitting and deeply moving to listen to during the transition from summer to autumn.

Although it has a somewhat melancholic tone, it carries a refreshing quality amid the wistfulness—a song that signals the end of summer.

Bye For NowT-BOLAN

This is the sixth single by T-BOLAN, a four-piece rock band that gained popularity in the 1990s J-POP scene for their especially straightforward rock sound among Being artists.

The song was used as the theme for the TV drama “Woman Dream” and is known as a massive hit that became the band’s first million seller.

Its lyrics, which depict a forward-looking parting, and its lyrical melody resonate with the autumn air, evoking a sentimental mood.

With a powerful ensemble that gives you a push toward a new step, it’s a rock ballad that represents the 1990s.

the Fourth Avenue CaféL’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc~en~Ciel – The Fourth Avenue Cafe
the Fourth Avenue CaféL'Arc〜en〜Ciel

This is a song by L’Arc~en~Ciel set on an autumn street corner.

The buoyant horn section is wonderfully vibrant and pairs perfectly with the exhilarating, fast-paced band sound.

Yet, in contrast to its bright tone, the lyrics depict a poignant scene of a couple parting ways.

The worldview that overlays the changing seasons with hearts growing apart is truly heart-wrenching.

The track is included on the album “True” and was used as an ending theme for the TV anime Rurouni Kenshin.

It’s also a fan favorite that took first place in the band’s live “setlist request” poll.

Oh, Girl (The Sad Screen of My Heart)Sazan Ōrusutāzu

OH, GIRL (Sad Screen of the Heart) [2024 Remaster]
Oh, Girl (The Sad Screen of My Heart)Sazan Ōrusutāzu

A gem of a ballad crafted by Southern All Stars.

It portrays, from a third-person perspective, a woman who single-mindedly continues to long for someone she can no longer meet.

The metaphor in the lyrics—that her sweet yet painful emotions are projected onto a screen—is truly superb.

This piece is included on the classic album “Southern All Stars,” released in January 1990, and was later featured on the best-of collection “Ballad 3: the album of LOVE.” Keisuke Kuwata’s wistful vocals and melody link exquisitely with the lonely, autumnal atmosphere, making it a masterpiece.

PrideImai Miki

PRIDE – Miki Imai (Full)
PrideImai Miki

Speaking of the ’90s, Miki Imai’s song is also one of the era’s signature J-pop hits! It was used as a TV drama theme song and became her biggest hit.

Its mellow sound and her gentle vocals are perfect for autumn, a season with a calm vibe.

The lyrics, which depict pure, straightforward love, are deeply moving and seem to quietly seep into your heart as you listen.

Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been There Since Long AgoMy Little Lover

My Little Lover "Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been There Since Long Ago~
Hello, Again ~A Place That's Been There Since Long AgoMy Little Lover

A signature hit of the ’90s by My Little Lover, it’s the beautiful, irresistibly catchy melody line that truly stands out.

Autumn often brings a vague sense of wistfulness, and this song gently seeps into that slightly lonely feeling.

It stirs a kind of nostalgia—deeply moving—so please give it a listen.

spidersupittsu

This is a track by Spitz featuring exhilarating, fast-paced guitar sounds.

The song portrays a tenuous yet powerful bond between two people drawn together by fate.

It carries a buoyant sense of excitement—like they’re stretching just a bit, yet filled with confidence about the future—that lifts the listener’s spirits as well.

After being included on the album “Sora no Tobikata” (How to Fly in the Sky), it was released as a single in October 1994 in response to radio buzz.

With its refreshing, breeze-like energy, it’s a perfect companion for a drive.