[1995 Hit Songs] Masterpieces of Japanese music that colored the Heisei 7 (1995) music scene
When you think of hit songs from 1995, what tracks come to mind? It was a landmark year when the release of Windows 95 had all of Japan buzzing, and the music scene saw a wave of great songs across diverse genres.
In this article, we’ll introduce the hit songs of 1995—nostalgic for those who spent their youth in that era, and fresh-sounding for those born after.
Even if you didn’t hear them in real time, there are plenty you’ve probably encountered somewhere! Enjoy to the very end.
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[1995 Hit Songs] Japanese masterpieces that colored the music scene of Heisei 7 (11–20)
What kind of good things?SMAP
This mid-tempo number features a gentle, warm melody and lyrics that capture the quiet happiness hidden in everyday life, leaving a deep impression on the heart.
Released in September 1995 as SMAP’s 18th single, it became widely familiar as the theme song for Calbee’s Potato Chips commercials starring Tsuyoshi Kusanagi and Shingo Katori.
Issued on September 9, the anniversary of their debut, it topped the Oricon weekly chart and marked a hit that reflected the group’s growing maturity.
Its message—valuing time spent with someone close over flashy events—offers a gentle embrace for hearts worn out by busy days.
I BELIEVEKahara Tomomi
Tomomi Kahara’s second single.
It was originally written as a song for globe, but ultimately became a signature masterpiece for Tomomi Kahara.
With this release, she won the Best New Artist award and became widely known.
Incidentally, this song opens her 2013 self-cover album of her own songs, and the music video was newly re-shot.
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto
It’s Mayo Okamoto’s debut single, released in May 1995.
It was featured as the theme song for the TBS drama “Second Chance” and as the entrance march for the 68th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, adding color to many different moments.
Many people have likely been encouraged by this song during tough times or when feeling down.
Give it some guts!!Urufuruzu
A signature song by Ulfuls.
It has been covered by various artists and is beloved as a classic that really gets the crowd going at karaoke.
It’s an encouraging anthem that gives energy to people worn out from being chased by work every day.
The message is a bit on the jockish side—“Let’s push through with guts no matter what”—but it’s the perfect track for when you want to psych yourself up or get a motivational jolt.
Sly womanSha ran Q
This is a classic song by Sharam Q, with Tsunku♂—a producer behind many hit songs—on vocals.
From the very first line, the lyrics are striking and unforgettable, giving the song an addictive quality that sticks in your head after just one listen.
The one-of-a-kind voice, blending poignancy and allure, is another highlight to pay attention to.
I want to fall in love so much that the slopes melt.Hirose Kōmi
This is a famous song by Kōmi Hirose, known as the “Queen of Winter,” who released numerous hits that color the season.
Alongside “Romance no Kamisama,” it remains a beloved winter song that perfectly suits the ski slopes.
Listeners are captivated by its piercing, powerfully soaring high notes.
It’s a passionate love song that portrays a fiery ardor blazing amid the harsh cold.
[1995 Hit Songs] Masterpieces of Japanese Music That Colored the Heisei 7 Music Scene (21–30)
LOVE PHANTOMB’z
B’z’s 18th single.
Released ahead of their 8th album, LOOSE, this song marked the change to the familiar current artist logo.
With total sales exceeding 1.8 million copies, it is B’z’s second best-selling song.
It’s a track bursting with speed and power.