Songs from the Heisei retro era that will get any generation excited! Timeless tracks you’ll want to listen to now.
Heisei Retro is a term that refers to the culture of the early Heisei era, from the late 1980s to the early 2000s.
Items and culture from that time are drawing renewed attention among younger generations.
For those who spent their youth in that era, it likely stirs nostalgia and a warm feeling in the chest.
So this time, we’ve gathered a selection of Heisei Retro classics from J-POP.
Each song is a masterpiece that colored the era, and we hope listeners of all generations will check them out.
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Songs that get every generation pumped! Heisei retro classics you want to listen to now (1–10)
Bye For NowT-BOLAN
A T-BOLAN song known as an iconic Heisei-era classic, with lyrics that strike a chord and a catchy melody.
Released in November 1992 as their sixth single, it became the band’s first million-selling hit.
It was also featured as the theme song for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “Woman Dream,” making it a beloved number across generations.
The lyrics, which sing of the sorrow of parting and hope for the future, leave a deep impression on listeners and continue to resonate with many even today.
It’s an invigorating rock tune that brings back memories of youth and is sure to be a hit at karaoke.
ESCAPEMOON CHILD
This is a single by MOON CHILD, avex’s first rock band, who dominated the late-1990s J-POP scene.
Released in May 1997 as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “FIVE,” the track topped the Oricon singles chart.
The song explores themes of deep loneliness, pain, and love.
Its lyrics suggest that love has the power to save people even amid hardship and isolation, making it an encouraging anthem that gently supports those who want to keep moving forward.
Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been There Since Long Ago~My Little Lover
A signature song by the music unit My Little Lover, released in August 1995.
It was chosen as the opening theme for the NTV drama “Owaranai Natsu” and became a major hit, reaching No.
1 on the Oricon singles chart.
Co-written by Kenji Fujii and Takeshi Kobayashi, the song evokes both heartache and warmth as it portrays the courage and hope to take a new step forward while recalling one’s hometown and loved ones.
The harmony born from akko’s delicate vocals and Kobayashi’s sophisticated production has made it beloved as an encouraging anthem that resonates with many listeners.
Centered on themes of the pains and hopes of youth, this track is a quintessential Heisei-era pop song cherished by J-pop fans across generations.
Songs that get every generation pumped! Heisei-retro classics you want to hear now (11–20)
Messenger from Sunday↑THE HIGH-LOWS↓
A track packed with THE HIGH-LOWS’ rock ’n’ roll spirit.
With its distinctive melody and lyrics, it’s an addictive number that grabs listeners’ hearts.
Included on the band’s debut album, THE HIGH-LOWS, it was released as a single in April 2004.
Chosen as the ending theme for the TV show “Downtown no Gottsu Ee Kanji” and as a Honda commercial song, it has earned support from a wide range of listeners.
It’s the perfect song to play when you’re feeling down or need a boost—guaranteed to fill you with energy.
A refreshingly exhilarating number that’s sure to light up any karaoke session.
Feeling great!!mihimaru GT
When you just want to get pumped up for the night, this dance tune is essential! It’s the signature track by the male-female duo mihimaru GT, released in May 2006 as their ninth single.
It was featured in the commercial for Dariya’s “Palty” and as the ending theme for the variety show “Skibara,” becoming a huge hit especially among Heisei-era gals.
The lively beat, rapid-fire rap, and soaring vocals make you forget your everyday frustrations in an instant.
Even if every day isn’t perfect, letting yourself sink into the sound will lift your spirits.
It’s the perfect anthem for those times you want to cut loose with friends on a drive or at karaoke, no explanations needed.
Time goes byEvery Little Thing
The eighth single by the two-member music duo Every Little Thing is a gem of a love ballad about time gone by and a lost romance.
Vocalist Kaori Mochida’s delicate voice beautifully conveys a complex mix of longing and regret.
Released in February 1998, the track was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Amai Kekkon” (Sweet Marriage) and became a major hit, reaching No.
2 on the Oricon charts.
Its straightforward lyrics and touching melody are perfect for those seeking to soothe the pain of heartbreak or reflect on memories with someone special.
As a defining song of the Heisei era, it continues to resonate with many people today.
LOVE & JOYKimura Yuki
An enchanting melody and catchy rhythm that evoke the sweet, bittersweet memories of youth.
Yuki Kimura’s crystalline vocals sing of love and a forward-looking spirit.
Released in July 2000, the song was used as the theme for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “Daisuke Hanamura” and reached No.
24 on the Oricon chart.
It has since been covered by various artists and featured in music games, continuing to be loved by many.
With a Heisei-retro vibe, this is a track that gives you the courage to keep moving forward no matter what.
A heart-thumping pop tune that deserves to be heard across generations.