1991 Japanese Hit Songs | A collection of timeless classics loved across generations!
In 1991, when Japan was shaken as the bubble economy began to collapse, music continued to soothe people’s hearts amid anxieties about changing times, and a stream of hit songs was born.
In this article, we’re spotlighting Japanese songs that became hits in 1991! From timeless ballads cherished across generations, to positive anthems that encouraged the Japanese people, to poignant love songs that tug at the heart, we’ll cover a wide range.
Why not look back on “who you were back then” alongside these gem-like masterpieces?
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- A collection of iconic Heisei-era J-pop hits: Japanese songs that were massive hits in 1994
- A roundup of hit love songs from the ’90s
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- A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 1980s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
1991 Japanese Hit Songs | A Collection of Timeless Classics Loved Across Generations (21–30)
WON’T BE LONGBaburugamu Burazāzu
Here, dance music finally makes its way onto the singles chart.
This track sold over 500,000 copies and placed within the top 20 of the 1991 year-end hits ranking.
It’s quintessential bubble-era dance music, but listening to it now feels quite poignant.
Christmas EveYamashita Tatsuro
I got curious about this song and looked it up, and its first release was in 1983.
It was a hit that year, then again in 1991, and after that it keeps hitting the charts every Christmas season—it’s a monster single, like a ghost that never goes away.
1991 Japanese Hit Songs | A Collection of Timeless Classics Loved Across Generations (31–40)
ZUTTOMariko Nagai
If you know this female artist, I think you can proudly say you’re well-versed in the music rankings of ’91.
I had completely forgotten about her too, but after listening again for the first time in a while, I realized it’s a great song.
Her smile has the power to lift everyone’s spirits.
A Love Song I Couldn’t SingOda Yūji
Yuji Oda, who still remains active on the front lines as an actor, also released this song—a major hit single—in 1991.
Although it did not make the top ten in the rankings, it sold over 500,000 copies.
Among actors and TV personalities, it holds the highest sales record.
Memories of Kujukuri BeachMi-Ke
It’s a song by an idol group that really evokes the Showa era and early Heisei period.
However, the fact that a classic, orthodox song like this sold well during a time when idols weren’t very popular has a resonance with today’s trends.
Recommended for fans of groups like AKB.
Eyes to me / He is a friendDREAMS COME TRUE
DREAMS COME TRUE is a wonderful group that has been active and successful for decades.
Their melodic sense is outstanding, and with the female vocalist singing so soulfully, I imagine many fans are deeply moved.
They’re a duo you can continue to expect great things from.
JulianPRINCESS PRINCESS
Princess Princess, pioneers of all-female rock bands, also had big success this year.
They stand shoulder to shoulder with the other artists I’ve introduced—1991 truly was a banner year.
If you’re a woman who plays in a band or plays an instrument, this track is a must-listen.