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: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites (41–50)
GlassKawamura Ryuuichi
“Glass” is Ryuichi Kawamura’s second single, released in April 1997.
It was recorded during his solo activities while his then-popular band was on hiatus, and it became a million seller.
The song is characterized by its flowing piano and Kawamura’s distinctive vocals, and the music video notably features close-ups of Kawamura, who was hugely popular as a heartthrob at the time.
It is a ballad that represents the 1990s.
squallFukuyama Masaharu
Masaharu Fukuyama is a singer-songwriter who showcases his talents in a variety of fields, from his musical career to his work as an actor.
His 14th single, “Squall,” released as a double A-side with “HEAVEN,” is also known as a self-cover of a song he originally provided to Eiko Matsumoto.
The female-perspective lyrics sung in his sexy, low register offer a different kind of appeal compared to a clear, airy female voice.
It’s a sentimental ballad number that both men and women can sing at karaoke.
Don’t Leave MeB’z
B’z is a rock unit that continues to enjoy unwavering popularity with a solid, Western-style rock sound and lyrics that many men can relate to.
Their 14th single, “Don’t Leave Me,” used as the theme song for the TV drama “New Airport Story,” makes a strong impact right from its intro featuring a blues harp.
The passionate shouts laid over a relaxed shuffle beat and the bluesy guitar solo may have reminded some fans of B’z’s roots, distinct from their prior pop-rock direction.
It’s an emotional rock ballad that fully explains how they were already dominating the J-pop scene at the time.
Swallowtail Butterfly ~Love Song~YEN TOWN BAND
“Swallowtail Butterfly ~Ai no Uta~” was released as a single by YEN TOWN BAND in July 1996.
As the theme song for the film Swallowtail, and with composition by then-popular producer Takeshi Kobayashi, it drew significant attention, reached No.
1 on the Oricon Singles Chart, and is known as a classic ballad.
Another OrionFujii Fumiya
Even after The Checkers disbanded, Fumiya Fujii has continued to be remarkably active.
“TRUE LOVE” and “Time Machine” have become karaoke staples for men, haven’t they? And then there’s the mega-hit “Another Orion.” The massive success of the drama “Shards of Glass,” in which the song was used, is inseparable from this track.
Many viewers probably tuned in each week, emotionally invested in the intertwined human relationships played out by Fujii himself, Yasuko Matsuyuki, Makiko Esumi, and others.
The lyric “No matter how far apart we are, I’ll be thinking of you” captures pure, classic romantic devotion.
The chorus swells in an extraordinary way—this is a truly recommended ballad.
As if gently enveloping…MISIA
MISIA’s debut single, released in February 1998, is a moving ballad themed around love and loneliness.
Showcasing MISIA’s overwhelming vocal prowess and five-octave range, the song was also featured in a commercial for “Erséne.” Its tender vocals and melody gently embrace dreams and hopes, as well as the anxiety and solitude that can arise in romance as we grow older.
Offering comfort, courage, and hope to listeners, this track is perfect for anyone feeling lost in life.
eternityZARD
Released in February 1999, this song is known as one of ZARD’s signature tracks.
Also used as the theme song for the TV drama “Shitsurakuen” (Lost Paradise), it features Izumi Sakai’s translucent vocals and a melody that resonates deeply.
The lyrics, where heartache and hope intersect, convey a strong wish for a loved one while facing an uncertain future, leaving a profound impact on many listeners.
Included on the album “Eien,” it became a major hit, selling 613,000 copies in its first week.
As a song that epitomizes ZARD’s musical style, it continues to be cherished across generations.
When facing heartbreak or a crossroads in life, listening to this track might give you courage.