Tear-jerking J-pop from the ’90s. Hit songs and real tearjerkers.
The 1990s were the era in J-pop history when CDs sold the most, and countless timeless classics were born that are still loved in the 2020s.
It was truly J-pop’s golden age, with artists and bands from a wide range of genres scoring hit after hit—an important period that greatly expanded the possibilities of Japanese music.
From among the dazzling array of brilliant 90s songs, this time we’re highlighting “tear-jerkers”: masterpieces that remain etched in both the record books and our memories.
Whether you lived through that time or you’re a younger music fan who’s recently gotten into 90s Japanese music, be sure to check them out.
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 40s: classic and popular Japanese tracks
- A roundup of hit love songs from the ’90s
- Tear-jerking songs I want to sing at karaoke
- A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 90s. Classic and popular tracks in Japanese music.
- A hidden gem among tearjerker songs. Recommended popular tracks.
- A coming-of-age song that was a hit in the ’90s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
- [So touching it makes you cry] A heartbreakingly wistful and sad song that tightens your chest
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
- Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 50s: classic and popular Japanese hits
- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
- Heisei-era heartbreak songs: A roundup of classic tracks from the ’90s to the 2010s
Tearjerking J-Pop from the ’90s: Hit Songs and Weep-Inducing Tracks (61–70)
Between the Sky and YouNakajima Miyuki
Singer-songwriter Miyuki Nakajima holds the remarkable record of topping the singles chart across four decades, from the 1970s through the 2000s.
Her 31st single, Between the Sky and You, released as a double A-side with Fight!, became a million-selling hit as the theme song for the TV drama A Homeless Kid, which sparked a major social phenomenon.
The sentimental lyrics, woven through her trademark powerful vocals, instantly bring scenes from the drama to mind as you listen.
It’s an emotional number that’s sure to draw attention at karaoke, especially with people from that generation.
O skyJinnai Taizo
Are you familiar with Taizo Jinnouchi, a musician who was active in the 1990s? His song “Sora yo” (Oh, Sky) became popular in households as the ending theme of the Nippon TV detective drama “Keiji Kizoku,” starring Yutaka Mizutani.
Last SongYoshioka Hidetaka
A heartbreak song sung by a man to his former lover.
Yoshioka is famous as an actor, but many people must have been amazed to find out he sings this well too! With straightforward lyrics, this song passionately declares he’ll never forget you, and it ended up powerfully moving the hearts of both film fans and those who aren’t.
YOU DON’T GIVE UPKahara Tomomi
A gentle, heartwarming single by Tomomi Kahala where piano and strings softly embrace the listener—her tenth single.
Originally a recut from the acclaimed 1997 album “storytelling,” it was released as a single in April 1998.
The song’s appeal lies in its warm message of encouragement, as if gently nudging someone you care about forward.
Kahala’s vocals express this with delicate yet resolute strength.
It was also featured in a Kanebo Cosmetics commercial and reached No.
7 on the Oricon weekly chart.
It’s the kind of anthem that gives you the courage to face tomorrow, whether you want to cheer someone on or need support when you feel like you might falter yourself.
Don’t forget.DREAMS COME TRUE
This is the 10th single by DREAMS COME TRUE, released in October 1991.
It was also included on the album MILLION KISSES, released the following month, which became a huge hit and was certified 2× Million by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
The lyrics dwell on lingering feelings for a former lover, and the heartfelt plea—“Even if you hate me, please don’t forget me”—is deeply moving.
It’s a ballad that gently wraps the pain of parting.