Hit Japanese songs that represent 1997. Recommended masterpieces.

Like when we first metEvery Little Thing

"Like When We First Met" MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

Every Little Thing’s 5th single, which reached No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart and No.

45 for the year.

It was used in a Morinaga “ICE BOX” commercial.

It’s the only single with a Japanese title released while leader Mitsuru Igarashi, who later left the group, was still a member.

The video is from their tour at the time, and although Kaori Mochida’s outfit looks youthful, it’s surprising how little she seems to have aged even now.

rainbowL’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc～en～Ciel “Niji” -Music Clip-

A song that holds deep meaning for the members.

It was released when L’Arc~en~Ciel resumed activities after a hiatus, and it is the only single they put out as a three-member lineup.

It was also used as the opening theme for the film Rurouni Kenshin: The Motion Picture (Requiem for the Ishin Shishi) and became a hit, reaching number 3 on the weekly Oricon chart and number 53 on the year-end chart.

Love SomebodyOda Yūji

[PV] Yuji Oda with Maxi Priest - Love Somebody (YouTube)

This is Yuji Oda’s 13th single.

It’s a signature song that became a major hit after being used as the theme for the drama “Bayside Shakedown.” Different arrangements were released around the time of the drama’s film releases, so I imagine many people had frequent chances to hear it.

The track has a very light and cheerful feel.

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.