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 (31–40)
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.
Forever LoveX JAPAN
X JAPAN is a legendary rock band that left behind numerous classic songs.
“Forever Love,” released on July 8, 1996, is their 14th single and one of the band’s signature tracks.
The song has many celebrity fans; it was even chosen by then–Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi as a theme for a Liberal Democratic Party commercial.
In drummer YOSHIKI’s hometown of Tateyama, Chiba Prefecture, it’s used for the municipal disaster-prevention broadcast system and as a train departure melody, making it a timeless masterpiece loved across generations.
In recent years, vocalist Toshi has become popular on variety shows, but be sure to listen to his soul-stirring vocals from the band’s heyday!
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.
Poem of SunlightLe Couple
Known as one of Le Couple’s signature songs, this single was released in July 1997 and was also featured on the soundtrack of the Fuji TV drama “Under One Roof 2.” Characterized by its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, it evokes the bittersweet nostalgia of a lost love while expressing the strength to keep moving forward.
It peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon chart and enjoyed remarkable popularity, charting for 40 weeks.
With its tender vocals and warm atmosphere, this song is perfect for reminiscing about romance or for times when your heart feels weary—a soothing ballad that offers comfort.
Summer Days of 1993class
It’s a hit song released in 1993 by the male duo class.
Even now, it’s often featured on special summer-song programs.
The refreshing melody brings back memories of our younger, carefree days and those bittersweet feelings.
That moment when you fall in love because of an unexpected gap—so sudden and real.
The dramatic, slightly melancholic lyrics and the inclusion of the era’s year make it even easier to get emotionally invested.
The woman in the song comes across like a “Madonna” figure, but who was the Madonna in your life?
