[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 Iconic Tracks and Popular Tunes That Colored the Heisei Era (1–10)
Can’t Stop Fallin’in Loveglobe
When I start to feel winter in the air, this is the TK sound from back then that I can’t help but listen to.
Led by Tetsuya Komuro, globe released this as their seventh single in October 1996.
Following “DEPARTURES,” it was used in JR East’s “JR ski ski” commercial and became a massive hit, selling over 1.3 million copies in total.
The lyrics, which portray an earnest adult romance that draws two people together beyond even morals and rules, strike a chord alongside the beautiful melody.
The world woven by KEIKO’s powerful vocals and Marc Panther’s rap shines with the brilliance that defined the ’90s.
Kotodama of Love ~Spiritual Message~Sazan Ōrusutāzu
Southern All Stars are a five-piece band that have continued to lead the J-pop scene and are loved by people of all ages.
This track, where festival-like beats intertwine with rap, is a dreamlike number that portrays the scenery of Kamakura and the spiritual theme of kotodama (the power of words).
Released as a single in May 1996, it drew major attention as the theme song for the TV drama “Invisible Man” starring Shingo Katori.
It achieved an astonishing total sales of about 1.395 million copies according to Oricon, and is also known as a hit that helped propel the classic album “Young Love.” It’s a masterpiece best enjoyed quietly while feeling the summer night breeze.
excuseSha ran Q
A quintessential 90s rock ballad that powerfully voices a man’s aching heart.
This is the 10th single by Sharam Q, the rock band led by Tsunku♂, who is also known as a music producer.
While spouting selfish excuses, the protagonist’s inability to sever his lingering attachment to the lover who left is portrayed over a wistful melody.
Released in April 1996, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Age, 35 Koishikute,” won the Excellence Award at the Japan Record Awards, and cemented the band’s popularity.
It’s a gem of a breakup song that makes you want to pour your emotions into it at karaoke.
[1996 Hit Songs] Spotlight on the iconic tracks and popular tunes that colored the Heisei era! (11–20)
Don’t wanna cryAmuro Namie
Released in 1996 at the height of the nationwide “Amura” craze, this is a classic track.
Marking a sharp turn from the intense dance beats of her earlier work, it incorporates authentic elements of Black music and became a pivotal moment in Namie Amuro’s evolution as an artist, opening a new door of expression.
The optimistic lyrics, which urge you to step into the future on your own feet rather than just wait, gently yet powerfully push those who are feeling uncertain.
Included on the landmark album SWEET 19 BLUES, this number is guaranteed to give you courage when you’re not satisfied with the status quo and want to leap into a new world.
romantic feelingsAikawa Nanase
Nanase Aikawa, who led the girls’ rock scene of the ’90s and still captivates with her powerful vocals.
This song of hers—produced by Tetsuro Oda—is an ultra-cool rock tune that fuses fierce guitars with a catchy melody.
She sings passionately about a wavering love: putting on a brave face and failing to be honest with the one you like, and it makes your heart skip a beat every time you listen.
Released as a single in October 1996, it’s also famous as the CM song for Ginza Jewelry Maki.
Sweet-and-sour yet intense, it’s a track loved across generations.
save your dreamKahara Tomomi
Tomomi Kahala, who helped define an era in the ’90s under the production of Tetsuya Komuro, is renowned for her clear, soaring high notes and earnest expressiveness.
Released in October 1996, this song became her first to top the Oricon Singles Chart—a true milestone.
It was also featured in a commercial for Lotte’s Sasa chocolate, and many people likely remember it alongside its stylish visuals.
The lyrics, which weave in English, convey a strong determination to protect one’s dreams.
It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to fire yourself up.
Give it a listen and relive the brilliance of those days.
frecklesJUDY AND MARY
The song chosen as the first opening theme for the anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.
It became JUDY AND MARY’s first number-one on the Oricon charts.
It’s such a delicate and profound piece that it’s hard to believe it was written in just three days.