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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Hit Japanese songs representing 1997. Recommended masterpieces (11–20)
Soulmatesupittsu
A gem of a song whose delicate lyricism finds meaning in the small moments of everyday life, paired with a universal message that questions the nature of love in modern society.
Released as a single in November 1997, it is known as a work that symbolizes Spitz’s musical evolution.
The striking sound—where the warmth of acoustic guitar harmonizes with new approaches like breakbeats—reached No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It also drew attention as the theme song for the 1999 film “Whisper of the Moonlight.” Highly recommended for those who want to listen alone on a calm night, or for anyone seeking emotional support at a crossroads in life.
Happy endingOhtaki Eiichi
As the theme song for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.
drama, this is a gem of a love song that Eiichi Ohtaki released for the first time in 12 years.
Its gentle, heartwarming melody and lyrics that carefully weave the feelings of a woman in love blend beautifully, leading to a massive hit of 970,000 copies sold since its release in November 1997.
Used in Love Generation, the song also marked Ohtaki’s first-ever Top 10 entry as a solo artist, showcasing his rich musicality to the fullest.
Portraying a sweet yet bittersweet love story, this track is highly recommended for those harboring feelings for someone special or wishing for a happy future with a loved one.
Et cetera related to the seashorePUFFY
PUFFY’s fourth single came out during a streak of million-selling hits.
With lyrics by Yosui Inoue and music by Tamio Okuda, it was created by an all-star team—and of course, this song also became a million-seller.
It has a calm yet cheerful vibe, like heading out for a day at the beach.
There are plenty of other points worth noting, but the phrase “Let’s go eat crab” somehow sticks in your head.
HIGH PRESSURET.M.Revolution
It was T.M.Revolution’s 5th single, which ranked 4th on the weekly chart and 22nd on the yearly chart, selling 787,000 copies.
With this song, he made his first appearance on TV Asahi’s Music Station.
The music video features a large-scale outdoor set, and Takanori Nishikawa’s fresh yet flamboyant performance atop it is well worth seeing.
Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi
A timeless ballad by Kazuyoshi Saito that transcends generations.
Within its relaxed tempo, it turns straightforward feelings into lyrics with natural expression—a poignant masterpiece that stirs the emotions.
Covered by many artists and cherished by renowned musicians who speak passionately about it, the song enjoys enduring popularity among even the most prominent performers.