Showa-era classic songs that brightened the 1990s
The 1990s were a period of the most significant change in Japan’s music history.
Genres that are commonplace today, like hip-hop and R&B, saw truly full-fledged artists emerge in Japan during this era.
At the same time, traditional pop music also produced hits, making it an unprecedentedly diverse music scene.
This time, we’ve picked out classic Showa-era songs from within the 1990s, specifically from 1990 to 1995.
It features many nostalgic works, so it’s a must-see for those of that generation!
Showa-era classic songs that colored the 90s (1–10)
LOVE LOVE LOVEDREAMS COME TRUE
The duo band DREAMS COME TRUE has earned support for their overwhelmingly powerful vocals—uncommon in Japan—and for songs that, while funky, still capture the essence of J-pop.
Their 18th single “LOVE LOVE LOVE,” released as a double A-side with “Arashi ga Kuru,” was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Aishiteiru to Ittekure.” Its transparent ensemble and love-filled message have a comforting quality that draws you in.
Among DREAMS COME TRUE’s many singles, it boasts their highest sales and stands as a representative ballad of the 1990s J-pop scene.
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki
Singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara, known for songs that feature his distinctive, warm vocals and catchy melodic sensibility, has garnered widespread popularity.
His third single, “Donna Toki mo” (“No Matter When”), used as the theme song for the film ‘No Abnormalities in the Job-Hunting Front,’ has been widely covered by numerous artists since its release in 1991.
Its positive message and ensemble centered on a lively piano give listeners the power to lift their spirits and move forward.
For those of that generation, it’s guaranteed to be a karaoke crowd-pleaser—Makihara’s biggest hit single.
SAY YESCHAGE and ASKA
In 2019, the 40th anniversary of their debut, ASKA announced his departure, and the music duo CHAGE and ASKA has since been active with only Chage.
Their 27th single, “SAY YES,” written as the theme song for the TV drama “The 101st Proposal,” is the track that introduced the name CHAGE and ASKA—who had been struggling in terms of sales—to a wide range of listeners.
Its clear, expansive ensemble and beautiful harmonies possess a timeless appeal.
It’s a masterpiece worthy of its double-million sales, and one you’ll want to harmonize on at karaoke with people of the same generation.
Longing, poignancy, and strength of heartShinohara Ryoko with t.komuro
Ryoko Shinohara, a singer who debuted as a member of Tokyo Performance Doll and now commands a strong presence as an actor, released her 4th single, “Itoshisa to Setsunasa to Kokorozuyosa to,” produced as the tie-in theme song for the animated film Street Fighter II: The Movie.
Because it was produced by Tetsuya Komuro, it was released under the name “Ryoko Shinohara with t.komuro.” Her wistful vocals and the synth-driven sound capture the essence of the 1990s J-pop scene.
With its catchy melody that lingers in your ears, the track became a hit tune that achieved double million sales.
Goodbye, Humanitytama
The three-piece band Tama drew attention for their impactful musical style on the music show Heisei Meibutsu TV: Miyake Yuji’s Ikasu Band Tengoku.
Their debut single Sayonara Jinrui, released as a double A-side with Ranchu, was featured in a commercial for Takara Shuzo’s Jun Aleph, becoming a hot topic.
The ensemble—said to have emerged from free sessions—carries a distinctive sense of weightlessness along with its loose melodies.
For those of that generation, it’s an addictive pop tune that makes it impossible not to anticipate the chorus in the hook.