An acoustic guitar’s tone that leaves an impression! Recommended Heisei-era hit songs for solo singing with guitar
The Heisei era gave birth to countless timeless songs.
Musical styles broadened, and the sound evolved significantly from the early to the later years.
Amidst that, warm ensemble pieces featuring acoustic guitar also became beloved.
So this time, we’re introducing songs from the Heisei era that are great for acoustic solo performance and singing.
Each track lets you really feel the presence of the acoustic guitar within a band ensemble, so why not give them a try?
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Distinctive Acoustic Guitar Tones! Recommended Heisei-Era Hit Songs for Solo Singing with Guitar (11–20)
CHE.R.RYYUI
When it comes to signature songs by YUI, the singer-songwriter from Fukuoka Prefecture, this track surely stands out.
Released in March 2007, it features a melody that evokes the freshness of spring.
YUI’s clear, airy vocals blend beautifully with the warm tones of the acoustic guitar, perfectly capturing the sweet, bittersweet moment of falling in love.
Chosen as the CM song for KDDI’s “LISMO!”, its lyrics depicting the flutter of first love resonated with many and propelled it to No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, making it a major hit.
It’s a heartwarming song you’ll want to listen to while driving or traveling.
Islanders’ TreasureBEGIN
This song by BEGIN is beloved by many as a number that symbolizes the heart and culture of Okinawa.
Its gentle blend of acoustic guitar and sanshin evokes a Japanese aesthetic that conjures images of Okinawa’s beautiful scenery.
Released in May 2002 and produced as the theme song for NHK Okinawa’s “30th Anniversary of Okinawa’s Reversion to Japan,” the piece conveys a deep love for the homeland.
The lyrics have garnered such widespread support that in some parts of Okinawa the song is even used for Eisa performances.
With unpretentious words and a catchy melody that resonates, it could be said to be a quintessential track that embodies the spirit of Wa (Japanese harmony).
Beyond the Night SkySMAP
This is the 27th single by SMAP, a five-member idol group whose members continue to draw attention individually even after the group’s disbandment.
Used as the theme song for the variety show “SMAP×SMAP,” it became the group’s first million-selling hit.
The arrangement—featuring acoustic guitar tones and a floating, wistful melody—leaves a strong impression of melancholy.
With sentimental lyrics by Shikao Suga that resonate deeply, it’s a masterpiece etched into J-pop history.
It’s also a sure-fire karaoke favorite that’s fun to sing by splitting parts with friends.
Tokyo VICTORYSazan Ōrusutāzu
The 55th single by Southern All Stars, who continue to lead Japan’s music scene.
Written and composed by Keisuke Kuwata, it’s characterized by a refreshing sound and notably uplifting, energetic lyrics.
The words reflect feelings about Tokyo’s changing scenery and the passage of time, conveying a message of hope and challenge for the future.
Blending the warm tones of acoustic guitar with full band sounds, this piece is also easy to try as a solo acoustic performance.
It’s recommended for those who resonate with a positive message: no matter the hardships in life, you’ll seize victory in the end.
Eine KleineNEW!Yonezu Kenshi
A Heisei-era classic whose transparent acoustic guitar tone and sentimental melody strike straight to the heart.
It’s a signature early hit by Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who leads the J-pop scene.
Included as the fourth track on the album YANKEE, released in April 2014, it also gained wide attention as a Tokyo Metro commercial song.
It delicately portrays complex emotions—a mix of the joy of meeting someone precious and the anxiety of a parting that may come someday—leaving your heart trembling with every listen.
Though it was never released as a single, it has remained beloved for years, with the music video garnering hundreds of millions of views.
It’s perfect for a solo acoustic performance as well; why not try singing it while laying bare your vulnerabilities yet striving to look ahead with earnest resolve?
If I can laughNEW!Urufuruzu
This is the 24th single by Ulfuls, a rock band from Osaka that radiates positive energy with a sound rooted in rock, blues, and soul.
Released in February 2002, it was used as the ending theme for the TV drama “Ginza no Koi,” in which the band’s vocalist, Tortoise Matsumoto, also appeared.
With lyrics that encourage you to smile in the end even when everyday life doesn’t go smoothly, the song is likely to resonate deeply with hearts tired from daily routines.
Also included on the album “Ulfuls,” this mid-tempo track features the warm tone of acoustic guitar, letting its acoustic character shine through the band’s sound.
When you’re feeling down or need a boost, why not strum a guitar and hum along?
Striking acoustic guitar tones! Recommended Heisei-era hit songs for solo singing with guitar (21–30)
Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi
A signature song by Elephant Kashimashi, a four-piece rock band known for Hiroji Miyamoto’s charismatic presence and overwhelming live performances.
Released in July 1997 as their 15th single, it served as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Because the Moon Shines at Night.” The lyrics poignantly depict a yearning for lost days and love, and Miyamoto’s powerful vocals leave a strong impression.
It conveys imagery that evokes summer breezes and the night sky, infused with a determined will to find hope in the future.
Coupled with the warm tones of the acoustic guitar, it’s a song that resonates deeply.
A recommended track for those who want to feel the full spectrum of life’s joys and sorrows.