Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
The 1990s J-pop scene saw CDs sell in huge numbers and one million–selling hits being released one after another.
Songs from that era are still loved across generations, and many younger music fans likely listen to those tracks on streaming services.
In this article, we’ll spotlight recommended songs among the countless classics and hits of ’90s J-pop, focusing specifically on its most popular ballads.
From beautiful, stripped-down masterpieces centered on vocals and guitar to rock-tinged ballads, enjoy a selection of wonderful tunes whose choruses will have many people humming along.
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Classic Ballads of 90s J‑Pop: Beloved Mega-Hits and Fan Favorites (91–100)
Silent EveKarashima Midori
An essential song when talking about Midori Karashima, which became a massive hit as the theme song for the TBS drama “Christmas Eve” starring Atsuko Sendo and Eisaku Yoshida.
It’s a ballad from the heyday of trendy dramas, and at year-end and New Year karaoke parties, the women would compete to sing it.
The lyrics, written like a letter about a love wavering between friendship and romance, are striking—there may be no other song that so powerfully conveys the loneliness of spending Christmas alone.
Even the intro, which begins quietly with a piano solo, is heartbreakingly beautiful.
A defining ballad of the ’90s—if you haven’t heard it, you must!
The Last LieMatsutōya Yumi
Singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya, whose distinctive voice has remained unchanged since her debut, continues to be loved across generations.
Her 29th single, “Saigo no Uso” (“The Last Lie”), was used as the theme song for the TV drama Hitorigurashi (Living Alone).
Its aching lyrics, which connect to the promotional tagline “You always have five secrets,” seem to tighten around the heart more and more with each listen.
It’s an emotional ballad whose intro—featuring resonant strings and piano with real depth—lingers in the ears.
For the momentEvery Little Thing
A gem of a ballad woven from airy, graceful vocals and a sophisticated arrangement.
It gently sings of aching feelings for a lover, carried by a lyrical melody.
As one of Every Little Thing’s signature songs, it has left a deep impression on many listeners.
Released as a single in June 1997, it became a major hit, reaching No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
It was also used in Morinaga Seika’s “ICE BOX” commercial and as the ending theme for TBS’s “COUNT DOWN TV,” earning broad support across audiences.
A track that resonates with those who carry the sorrows and anxieties of love, inviting empathy.
The music video, filmed in the Australian desert, is equally striking, creating a unique world of its own.
Someday Merry ChristmasB’z
The moment that music box timbre tracing the chorus melody begins to play, many people can’t help but tear up, right? B’z have produced countless gem-like ballads, and even though this isn’t a single, its popularity and name recognition are exceptional.
The song first appeared on the 1992 mini-album FRIENDS.
It’s been included on later best-of albums with high frequency, and has become such a standard of Japanese pop that you can count on hearing it somewhere every Christmas season.
The beautiful acoustic guitar arpeggios, the wonderfully story-driven lyrics, the restrained yet gorgeous melody—every aspect is nothing short of perfect.
Don’t give upZARD
ZARD is a music unit that stood at the forefront of Being-era artists who enjoyed explosive popularity in the 1990s.
Their sixth single, “Makenaide” (“Don’t Give Up”), was used as the theme song for the TV drama ‘Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!’ and became a million-selling hit.
Its empowering lyrics and catchy melody give many people the urge to hum along during tough times.
It’s also known for playing at the climax of Nippon TV’s charity program ‘24-Hour Television’ during the marathon, a brisk, uplifting ballad that gives you that final push forward.