[Hit Songs of 1996] Spotlight on the iconic tracks and popular tunes that colored the Heisei era!
In 1996, as Japan was slowly recovering from the bursting of the bubble economy, the music scene saw diverse expansion and a wealth of million-selling hits.
The songs that were popular that year still shine with unfading brilliance along with the atmosphere of the time, moving listeners today.
In this article, we’ll showcase a wide range of classic Japanese hits from 1996.
Take this opportunity to revisit and savor these tracks that bring back memories of those nostalgic days.
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[1996 Hit Songs] Spotlight on Masterpieces and Popular Tracks That Colored the Heisei Era (61–70)
My friendZARD
This is one of ZARD’s signature songs, well-known as the ending theme of Slam Dunk.
Although ZARD is strongly associated with producing many anime songs, this track was actually their first anime theme.
It still enjoys enduring popularity at karaoke and remains a beloved staple among anime songs.
Winter Fantasykazan
The unit name “Cousin” means cousin in English, and the two are a rare unit in that they are actually real cousins.
Their chorus work, stemming from their strong vocal abilities, is beautiful.
It truly has the feel of a winter fantasy.
They are still active and are expanding their activities around the world.
PRIDEImai Miki
This song was released when Tomoyasu Hotei—who would later become Miki Imai’s husband—was producing her.
It’s interesting how the musical style is completely different from Hotei’s usual image.
With lyrics like “Right now, loving my boyfriend is my pride,” it gained support from the office-lady generation.
In conclusion
The music that colored that era still shines brilliantly, doesn’t it? For those who were there, it brings back fond memories, and for those who didn’t experience 1996 in real time, perhaps it offered some fresh discoveries.
Take a moment to listen again to these timeless classics that continue to be loved across generations.