Lovely Christmas

Heisei-era Christmas songs and classic tracks you want to listen to in winter

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

Every winter, Christmas songs begin to flow through the city.

Many tracks born in the Heisei era remain etched in our hearts as timeless favorites that are still just as popular today.

Those nostalgic melodies we can’t help but hum bring back lyrics filled with memories of lovers, warm times spent with family, and unforgettable scenes from TV dramas.

This Christmas season, experience the charm of these songs that continue to be loved even after the Heisei era ended.

Here are Christmas songs from the Heisei generation where nostalgia and freshness intersect.

Heisei-era Christmas Songs and Classic Winter Tracks You’ll Want to Listen To (41–50)

THE GLORY DAYMISIA

THE GLORY DAY（from THE TOUR OF MISIA 2004 MARS & ROSES in TOKYO DOME Live Ver.）

THE GLORY DAYMISIA

MISIA is a female singer known as a pioneer who brought soul and R&B to prominence in Japan.

The title track of her 1998 album, THE GLORY DAY, was selected as J-WAVE’s Christmas campaign song that year.

The lyrics evoke imagery reminiscent of Jesus Christ born on a holy day and sing of love directed toward people all around the world.

Over a rhythmic piano accompaniment, a brilliant, gospel-inspired choral arrangement unfolds.

Paired with her soulful vocals, it’s a Christmas song that celebrates a very special day.

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DEAR…againHirose Kōmi

Kohmi Hirose – DEAR…again (Official Video)

DEAR...againHirose Kōmi

It’s a song that lights a warm glow amid the winter chill.

Released in November 1996 as Kohmi Hirose’s eighth single, it was also used in a commercial for Alpen.

It conveys a bittersweet longing for a lover far away and the wish to reunite by Christmas.

Hirose’s crystalline vocals and the intricate melody line are striking.

The single sold 337,000 copies and reached No.

7 on the weekly Oricon chart.

Celebrated as a quintessential winter classic of the Heisei era, it continues to comfort many listeners.

It’s a track you’ll want to play when you’re hoping to reunite with a loved one or thinking of someone dear.

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White ChristmasJUN SKY WALKER(S)

JUN SKY WALKER(S) – White Christmas

White ChristmasJUN SKY WALKER(S)

With a melody that evokes the chill of winter air and lyrics where longing and warmth coexist.

Released in November 1989, this song was featured in a Panasonic CD radio-cassette commercial and became JUN SKY WALKER(S)’s first number-one on the Oricon charts.

It portrays the feeling of thinking about someone far away under a cold, clear sky, and a yearning for promises that never end.

Its catchy quality makes you want to hum along when you hear it in the city or on the radio.

A recommended track for those who want to cherish time with someone important or quietly warm their hearts.

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I totally hate Christmas!! Just kidding ♡CRAZY KEN BAND

I totally hate Christmas!! Just kidding ♡ / Crazy Ken Band (2002)

I totally hate Christmas!! Just kidding ♡CRAZY KEN BAND

Crazy Ken Band is a group that has won popularity for its eclectic musicality, incorporating a wide range of genres from rock’n’roll to jazz, and from enka to Asian pop.

Their 6th single, “I Hate Christmas!! Just Kidding♡,” stands out for its musical approach, which is completely different from their 5th single, “Tiger & Dragon,” released on the same day.

The lyrics, which sing of the magic of Christmas that makes you hope in spite of nothing but bittersweet memories, will set your heart dancing along with the light, shuffling beat.

It’s a catchy Christmas number that lets you feel the depth and breadth of Crazy Ken Band.

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Hoshino Takashi

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In conclusion

Many Christmas songs were born in the Heisei era, and they continue to be loved today as winter classics.

Over time, numerous masterpieces have been passed down across generations, and they will keep resonating as cherished songs that warm our hearts.

Let the music help you feel the spirit of the Christmas season.