Hit Japanese songs that represent 1997. Recommended masterpieces.
Masayoshi Yamazaki, GLAY, Mr.
Children, THE YELLOW MONKEY, L’Arc-en-Ciel, Namie Amuro, SPEED…
From the many classic songs that lit up the J-POP charts in 1997, we’ve selected hit tracks recommended by our studio staff.
It’s a nostalgic J-POP playlist that still shines vividly today.
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Representative Japanese hit songs of 1997. Recommended masterpieces (1–10)
One more time, One more chanceYamazaki Masayoshi
This is one of Masayoshi Yamazaki’s signature songs, which became a hit as the theme song for the film “The Moon and a Cabbage.” In 2007, it was used again as the theme song for the animated film “5 Centimeters per Second,” bringing it back into the spotlight.
It’s a very quiet and heartrending piece that evokes the image of someone unconsciously searching for a distant lover.
lipsGLAY
A masterpiece that sensually portrays a heartrending romance, it deftly captures emotions swaying between passion and desire.
The protagonist’s irrepressible impulses and a foreboding sense of love’s fragility fuse beautifully in this gem of a song.
Released in May 1997 by GLAY, it was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s music program “HEY! HEY! HEY! MUSIC CHAMP” and topped the Oricon Singles Chart.
That autumn, it was also included on the acclaimed album “REVIEW – BEST OF GLAY.” It’s a track that resonates deeply when you want to unleash the passion hidden in your heart or when your feelings for someone special are growing stronger.
The powerful performance and emotional vocals create a world that will gently embrace not only rock fans but also anyone struggling with love.
ESCAPEMOON CHILD
A J-pop track that epitomizes the band sound of the ’90s, featuring clear, sharply defined guitars and an engaging bassline.
Released as a single in May 1997, it was used as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “FiVE,” and it fully showcases MOON CHILD’s musicality.
Included on the albums “MY LITTLE RED BOOK” and “Treasures of MOON CHILD,” the song achieved a remarkable feat on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, soaring from No.
9 to No.
1.
Even after the band’s breakup, it has continued to be covered by many artists—including dream, Hitomi Shimatani, and Yutaro Miura—cementing its status as a timeless classic.
Its stirring melody and deeply relatable message continue to move listeners with undiminished impact.
STEADYSPEED
Accompanied by a music video memorable for its sepia-toned seaside scenes, SPEED’s second single was released in November 1996.
It sold 1.5 million copies, earning a spot at No.
5 on the 1997 annual singles sales ranking.
While its bittersweet lyrics speak of love, the song conveys a forward-looking spirit.
Chosen as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Itazura na Kiss,” it captured the hearts of many viewers.
Beyond the allure of their vocals and dance, the track lets listeners feel the group’s growth through its melodic lines.
Filled with feelings for a cherished person swayed by love, it remains beloved by many listeners even today.
FACEglobe
A gem of a dance-pop tune that fuses Tetsuya Komuro’s exceptional production with KEIKO’s richly expressive vocals.
Released as a single from avex globe in January 1997, its sophisticated sound—woven from electronic rhythms and memorable melodies—captures the heart.
Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Kanojo-tachi no Kekkon” and as the CM song for NTT’s “Multi-Net Fair,” it debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
Long cherished as one of globe’s signature tracks, it was also included on the album “FACES PLACES,” selling over 3 million copies.
Its dramatic progression and groovy sound make it perfect for heart-lifting moments or reminiscing about times with someone special.