A revival hit driven by social media! Heisei-era masterpieces that are resonating with Gen Z today
In recent years, thanks to the rise of subscriptions, people of all generations can easily listen to a wide variety of music.
Rather than labeling music as old or new, the younger generation’s approach of “good is good” shows they’re enjoying music in a pure, unfiltered way.
What’s more, with trends on TikTok, many songs are experiencing revival hits, and it’s now impossible to predict what will catch on.
So this time, we’re introducing Heisei-era masterpieces that are resonating with younger listeners, especially Generation Z.
Those who likely listened to these songs in real time can enjoy them too, so be sure to check them out!
A revival hit driven by social media! Heisei-era masterpieces that are resonating with Gen Z now (1–10)
silhouetteNEW!KANA-BOON
A rock number whose exhilarating guitar riffs set your heart ablaze.
It conveys how memories of the past remain as indelible shadows in your heart, and the resolve to protect what truly matters even as you grow.
It’s bursting with positive energy.
The track is a single by KANA-BOON released in November 2014.
It was used as the opening theme for the anime Naruto Shippuden.
It was also included on the album TIME, and even in the Reiwa era it continues to be loved in Japan and abroad, with events such as a listening session held in November 2024.
When you listen to it as an adult, it brings back all kinds of memories and really hits home.
Highly recommended for anyone facing obstacles and in need of encouragement.
Take it along for a drive and enjoy it at full throttle.
Naughty SunNEW!ORANGE RANGE
Here’s a signature summer tune from ORANGE RANGE that evokes the blazing summer sun.
Its driving beats and catchy call-and-response overlap to create an irresistible mix that freely crosses between rock and pop.
Released as a single in July 2007, it was chosen as the opening theme for the smash-hit drama “Hanazakari no Kimitachi e ~ Ikemen Paradise ~,” generating buzz and reaching No.
3 on the weekly Oricon chart.
It was later included on the classic album “PANICFANCY,” and has remained widely loved even in the Reiwa era as a revival hit.
It’s a high-energy anthem perfect for moments when everyone wants to go all out and get hyped—like cheering on school clubs or singing at karaoke.
come againNEW!m-flo
This song portrays the bittersweet feeling of giving up on an unresponsive lover and trying to forget by dancing the night away at a club.
Its appeal lies in the sound where an irregular rhythm influenced by UK-born 2-step intersects with sophisticated melodies and rap.
Unbound by existing frameworks, this work has been loved across generations for many years.
It’s the ninth single by the musically diverse group m-flo, released in January 2001, and it was used in a commercial for Kanebo Cosmetics’ “TESTIMO.” It reached a peak of No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and is also included on the classic album EXPO EXPO.
It’s a perfect recommendation for when you want to lift your mood in a stylish space on a weekend night, or when you’re ready to break free from a past romance and take a fresh step forward.
Heart ThrobsNEW!nobobyknows̟+
An instantly uplifting upper-tune! With its bouncy beat and ear-catching hook, the way multiple MCs pass the mic one after another delivers a strong live feel.
This track, known as one of nobodyknows+’s signature works, captivates with its upbeat, celebratory sound.
Released in May 2004 as their third single, it became a major hit after being chosen as the ending theme for the anime SD Gundam Force.
It was later included on the classic album Do You Know?.
In 2022, a performance in video content sparked buzz, helping it gain popularity among younger listeners.
It’s the perfect song to boost your mood or to get everyone hyped at karaoke!
First LoveNEW!Utada Hikaru
It’s a classic that blends the sweet tang of first love with the bittersweet aftertaste of a love that has ended.
Written and composed by Hikaru Utada, the song vividly captures the melancholy of the moment of parting.
You can feel the wish that, even if one day you fall in love again, your former lover will remain someone special in your heart.
Released as a single in April 1999, it was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Majo no Joken” and became a massive hit.
In 2022, an original drama inspired by the song was released worldwide, bringing it back into the spotlight across generations.
It’s a love song recommended for those who, while holding on to unforgettable memories, want to take a new step forward—because the protagonist’s struggle to recover from heartbreak and face ahead is so deeply relatable.