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!
- Songs from the Heisei retro era that will get any generation excited! Timeless tracks you’ll want to listen to now.
- Showa-era songs that went viral on TikTok / revival hit songs
- Nostalgic yet new! Songs that made a comeback and became revival hits on TikTok
- Heisei-era hit songs gaining popularity on TikTok
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- An iconic song by a female artist that Gen Z can get hyped about with their peers
- Gen Z listeners, take note! Great songs that color the J-pop scene
- Heisei Song Collection: Iconic Hits That Colored the ’90s and 2000s
- When you want to hype it up with your peers! Karaoke songs recommended for Gen Z
- A Must-See for the Heisei Generation: Nostalgic Songs That Were Popular in the Heisei Era
- Old songs from the Showa to Heisei eras: a collection of timeless classics loved across generations
- Resonates across generations! Hit songs that colored the Heisei era, perfect as BGM
- Dance music that was popular among Gen Z. A song that went viral.
A revival hit driven by social media! Heisei-era masterpieces that are resonating with Gen Z now (1–10)
KissORIGINAL LOVE
A song by ORIGINAL LOVE that paints a deeply poignant love story.
Released in November 1993, it uses a scene of a sweet kiss in the stillness of the night to symbolize the lovers’ fleeting connection and the sense of distance that returns with the morning.
Tajima Takao’s distinctive vocals and lyrics that are simple yet profound are captivating, while the melody and arrangement are characterized by jazz and soul influences.
Created as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “Otona no Kiss” (Adult’s Kiss), the track beautifully captures the complexity and wistfulness of adult romance, making it a recommended listen for anyone who wants to feel the subtleties of love.
A Member of the Fire BrigadeKōda Kumi
A cover song that captures the passion and romance of summer.
Its arrangement, distinct from the original, brings out a sexy vibe that’s quintessentially Kumi Koda.
Included on her first cover album, “ETERNITY ~Love & Songs~,” released in October 2010, this track lets you rediscover the enduring charm of a timeless classic.
Koda’s sultry vocals beautifully convey the bittersweetness and poignancy of a summer love.
It’s sure to be a hit at karaoke—a perfect song for making summer memories.
wandererOkuda Tamio
A gem of a song where breathtaking beauty coexists with deep melancholy.
Known as one of Tamio Okuda’s signature works, it was released in February 1998.
Its simple guitar riff and distinctive vocals leave a strong impression, with a musicality that etches itself into the listener’s heart.
It was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Days,” and in recent years has also been featured as the theme for “Degawa Tetsuro no Juuden Sasete Moraemasen ka?” The lyrics, themed around a wandering journey, evoke both loneliness and hope, making it a number you’ll want to hear when standing at a crossroads in life or when you wish to reflect on yourself.
tropical nightRIP SLYME
It’s no exaggeration to call this a signature track by RIP SLYME, passionately depicting a midsummer night.
The song is so energetic that you can picture young people dancing till dawn at a club on a sweltering night when the heat makes your head go fuzzy.
Released in July 2007, the first pressing of the CD came with a clear red case and a color pin-up jacket.
The playful, humorous lyrics—so characteristic of RIP SLYME—let you fully savor the liberating feeling of summer.
It’s great for listening to while driving on a hot night, and it’s also perfect for getting the party going.
TimingBurakku Bisukettsu
The signature song by Black Biscuits, the trio featuring Kiyotaka Nanbara, was released in April 1998 and became a massive hit, selling over 1.48 million copies on the Oricon charts.
Its lyrics, which emphasize the importance of perfect timing, carry a positive message that reframes everyday misunderstandings and frustrations in an optimistic light.
Paired with a catchy melody, it’s a track that lingers long in the memory.
More than 20 years later, the song resurfaced in 2022 on TikTok, finding new popularity with a younger generation.
It’s the kind of song that can lift your spirits when you’re stressed or struggling with relationships.
SaudadePorunogurafiti
A song whose nostalgic melody and heartrending lyrics resonate deeply.
Released in September 2000, this work is characterized by a sound tinged with Latin flavor.
It was also selected for Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat commercial and became a hit that reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart.
Written from a female perspective, the lyrics portray the feelings after a breakup and for a loved one—accepting the parting while holding a faint hope of meeting again.
It’s a staple at Porno Graffitti’s live shows, and in 2021 a special arrangement on THE FIRST TAKE drew significant attention.
For those who have experienced the pain of heartbreak or a farewell with someone important, this is surely a number that will strike a chord.
Sign of LovePUFFY
This is one of PUFFY’s signature songs, written and composed by Masamune Kusano of Spitz.
The lyrics depict a shy young man who meets the person he loves and grows through that experience, carrying a message that resonates with many people.
Released in 1998, the song has remained beloved for its catchy melody and heartwarming words.
In 2016, it was featured in a Kirin Beer commercial, which drew attention as the two members of PUFFY also appeared.
This work is a coming-of-age song that captures the feelings of falling in love and personal growth.
It’s highly recommended for anyone taking a new step forward or quietly holding feelings for someone special.