Hit Japanese songs that represent 1997. Recommended masterpieces.

As if it were a dreamDEEN

DEEN – As If In a Dream at Budokan NO CUT

This is a song that was used as the theme for the game Tales of Destiny.

There’s even an anecdote that it was composed after reading the script of the work, so it seems likely the piece was created with the story in mind.

It’s a very warm and grand song.

Red AngelPocket Biscuits

Pocket Biscuits “Red Angel” PV .flv

The third single by Pocket Biscuits, which reached No.

2 on the weekly chart and No.

12 on the yearly chart.

It’s the only song by the band without chorus vocals from Udo and Teru.

As with their other tracks, it features frequent key changes that make generous use of substitute chords, and the song’s development still has striking moments even today.

Liar! Liar!B’z

B’z / Liar! Liar!

This track seizes listeners’ hearts with its overwhelming guitar riffs and high-velocity sound.

Tak Matsumoto’s razor-sharp guitar work and Koshi Inaba’s powerful vocals blend beautifully, and the lyrics—offering a keen perspective on society—are equally compelling.

Released in October 1997 as the lead single from B’z’s ninth album, “SURVIVE,” it reached No.

1 on Oricon’s monthly chart.

It was also featured as the CM song for Perfect TV!’s “MUSIC FREAK TV” and served as the official theme for the NHL’s 1997 Japan Opening Series.

With its aggressive sound and strong message, this song is perfect for moments when you want to fire yourself up or stay true to your convictions.

For the momentEvery Little Thing

「For the moment」MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

A gem of a ballad woven from airy, graceful vocals and a sophisticated arrangement.

It gently sings of aching feelings for a lover, carried by a lyrical melody.

As one of Every Little Thing’s signature songs, it has left a deep impression on many listeners.

Released as a single in June 1997, it became a major hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It was also used in Morinaga Seika’s “ICE BOX” commercial and as the ending theme for TBS’s “COUNT DOWN TV,” earning broad support across audiences.

A track that resonates with those who carry the sorrows and anxieties of love, inviting empathy.

The music video, filmed in the Australian desert, is equally striking, creating a unique world of its own.

STOP THE TIMEHi-STANDARD

Hi-STANDARD – STOP THE TIME

A track included on the third album released by Hi-STANDARD, the charismatic force of Japan’s punk scene.

True to Hi-Standard’s style, it’s an upbeat, hype-inducing song that puts their simple yet aggressive sound front and center.

Poem of SunlightLe Couple

Hidamari no Uta / Le Couple (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

Le Couple’s 5th single, which ranked 2nd weekly, 1st for July, 5th for August, and 3rd for the year.

It was an insert song for the Fuji TV drama “Under One Roof 2,” and since the single’s tracks were cut from the drama’s soundtrack, it also includes songs by artists other than Le Couple.

Daughter of the CircuitPUFFY

PUFFY “Circuit no Musume” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

PUFFY’s third single, which reached No.

1 for the week and No.

32 for the year.

In December of the previous year, Yumi Yoshimura had a bicycle accident and fractured her left leg, and this incident is reflected in the song with lyrics like “so you don’t fall and break a bone.” The track features a chord progression that strongly showcases Tamio Okuda’s signature style.