1990s J-Pop to listen to in summer: classic and hit summer songs
The 1990s were a time when million-selling hit songs kept coming one after another, and music clearly served as a common topic across generations.
Naturally, there were plenty of summer-themed hits as well.
In this article, we’ve picked out 90s summer songs that have continued to be loved across eras—not only by those who listened to them in real time back then, but also to the extent that people of all ages have probably heard them at least once.
Younger music fans might even discover, “So this song was sung by this artist?” Be sure to check them out!
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'90s J-Pop to listen to in summer: Classic and hit summer songs (51–60)
I love it!Hirosue Ryōko
Singer Ryoko Hirosue, who enjoyed enormous popularity in the late 1990s—enough to spark the “Hirosue boom”—and continues to thrive as an actor today.
Her second single, “Daisuki!” provided by singer-songwriter Mayo Okamoto, was used as the theme song for Asahi Soft Drinks’ Mitsuya Cider commercial.
With lyrics themed around driving, it makes a perfect summer soundtrack for fun outings.
It’s a refreshing pop tune whose cute vocals and catchy melody will stick in your head.
July 7, sunnyDREAMS COME TRUE
This song was created as the theme for the 1996 film “July 7th, Clear Skies,” starring Masato Hagiwara and Alisa Mizuki.
July 7th is Tanabata, the day when Hikoboshi and Orihime are said to be able to meet only once a year.
The lyrics, which echo that story, convey the aching, painful longing to see the one you love.
It’s a track that people in long-distance relationships or those with unrequited feelings will surely relate to—and perhaps even be moved to tears.
That kind of love that hurts because it’s so strong is something people of any generation can understand, even if they aren’t in love right now.
Jet Coaster RomanceKinKi Kids
Among Johnny’s groups, the ones who carry on the spirit of classic kayōkyoku are KinKi Kids.
Since their 1997 debut with “Glass no Shōnen,” they’ve kept releasing masterpieces built around a Showa-style sound, racking up explosive hits.
Their ultimate summer song, released in 1998, is “Jetcoaster Romance.” The duo’s sweet, impeccable vocals; the rock-solid songwriting team of lyricist Takashi Matsumoto and composer Tatsuro Yamashita—who also crafted “Glass no Shōnen”; and the superb sound arrangement by Motoki Funayama together produced an all-time classic.
Precisely because the sound is untouched by trends, it continues to shine with an unfading brilliance even decades later.
Sweet EmotionAikawa Nanase
Nanase Aikawa looks amazing with red hair, and her glamorous, powerful vocals are so cool.
“Sweet Emotion” is a 1997 single, a feel-good tune whose lyrics drop in little phrases here and there that are perfect for coming out of the radio! Hearing it makes you feel like you’ve been transported back to the ’90s.
Composed by Tetsuro Oda, a top-tier melody maker, the sound is packed with what Oda himself considers “free rock ’n’ roll.” There aren’t any explicit summer scenes in the lyrics, but the depiction of a blazing romance and the heated vibe are sure to boost that summer let-loose feeling! Above all, it’s a cool, fun, and endlessly exciting number.
The best!
90s J‑Pop to listen to in summer: classic and hit summer songs (61–70)
Shiny Daykawashima daria
This is Daria Kawashima’s memorable re-debut single, released in 1991.
Well known as the theme song for Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat commercials, many of you will probably recognize its refreshing melody.
As the first release from a new Being-affiliated label, the song marked the beginning of her next challenge.
Its solid, hard rock sound meshes perfectly with an exhilarating pop brightness.
Her high-toned voice in the chorus evokes a vividly blue summer sky.
The hopeful lyrics capture the very essence of youthful radiance.
It’s a classic that shows her talent—later responsible for many hits—already shining at this early stage.
Those summer fireworksDREAMS COME TRUE
DREAMS COME TRUE broke out in the ’90s and are still going strong today, and they have many iconic summer songs—“Ano Natsu no Hanabi” is definitely one of them! It’s a track that beautifully captures both the beauty and the fleeting nature of summer.
Originally included on their 1992 album The Swinging Star, it was also re-recorded as the “-SENKOU-HANABI-VERSION-” for the best-of album DREAMS COME TRUE THE BEST! Watashi no Dorikamu.
Some listeners may also strongly associate it with memories of DWL (DREAMS COME TRUE WONDERLAND)! The vivid imagery and Miwa Yoshida’s soaring vocals stir up memories of those nostalgic summer days.
It’s a truly wonderful song.
Seesaw Game: A Brave Love SongMr.Children
When it comes to Mr.
Children’s summer songs, many people probably think of “Kimi ga Ita Natsu” first.
But I’d like to introduce this track that’s perfect for summer listening, while recalling that memorable commercial with Kazutoshi Sakurai singing by the sea with a Rickenbacker in hand.
Released in 1995, it became a massive hit, selling a total of 1.812 million copies.
With lyrics that showcase Sakurai’s signature style, an irresistibly catchy melody, and an indisputably pop feel that just makes you happy to listen, it’s a classic.
Interestingly, from the melodic structure to the music video, it’s also a full-on homage to Elvis Costello, whom Sakurai deeply admires.
It’s the kind of song that makes you want to blast it and drive along the seaside.