[1998 Japanese Hit Songs] A roundup of timeless classics that still live on in people’s memories!
GLAY, T.M.Revolution, L’Arc~en~Ciel, MISIA, Morning Musume…
1998 was a year when a stream of timeless hits were born from artists who still enjoy enduring popularity today.
In this article, we introduce standout classics from the 1998 J-POP hit charts—songs that earned overwhelming support from listeners and fans, and continue to do so even now.
Enjoy this nostalgic playlist that still shines in vibrant color.
- [1998 Japanese Hit Songs] A roundup of timeless classics that still live on in people’s memories!
- [Hit Songs of 1999] A roundup of timeless tracks that dominated the charts!
- Hit Japanese songs that represent 1997. Recommended masterpieces.
- Songs popular among men in their 40s. Timeless classics that bring back memories.
- Heisei-era heartbreak songs: A roundup of classic tracks from the ’90s to the 2010s
- [Hit Songs of 1996] Spotlight on the iconic tracks and popular tunes that colored the Heisei era!
- Ranking of Popular Songs by Female Singer-Songwriters of the 1990s [2026]
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- Hit J-Pop songs of 2008: recommended masterpieces and popular tracks
- Classic and hit J-pop songs from the nostalgic ’90s
- Japanese Music of the 2000s: Revival Included! A J-POP Hit Song Special
- [Heisei Retro] Hit Japanese songs that defined the 1990s. Recommended J-POP classics.
[1998 Japanese Hit Songs] A Showcase of Unforgettable Classics That Still Resonate Today! (1–10)
ALL MY TRUE LOVESPEED
This is SPEED’s eighth single, which was chosen as the theme song for the 1998 FIVB Volleyball World Championship.
Many listeners at the time likely felt their hearts race with its powerful vocals and energetic sound.
Released in October 1998, the single topped the Oricon Weekly Chart for two consecutive weeks.
With lyrics that sing of unwavering, straightforward love, the song can be heard not only as an anthem for athletes striving for victory, but also as encouragement for anyone devoted to love or pursuing their dreams.
When you’re giving something your all or want to lift up someone important to you, listening to it is sure to give you a push forward!
my graduationSPEED
While centered on the theme of parting, this is a quintessential ballad by SPEED that conveys not only sadness but also a sense of hope for the future.
Without using the direct word “graduation,” it portrays the tender yet resolute feelings of a girl who, through the end of a romance, takes her first step into adulthood.
Released in February 1998, the song topped the Oricon charts for three consecutive weeks and was featured in Nissin Foods’ commercial for Nissin Yakisoba U.F.O.
It’s the kind of song that, when listened to as you face a farewell and set out on a new path, gently nudges you forward with its soothing melody and positive message.
MARIAkuroyume
The band Kuroyume, known for their distinctive musical style and appearance, released their 12th single in April 1998.
Characterized by a punk-influenced sound that incorporates ska rhythms, the track’s simple, masculine arrangement captivated many male fans.
[1998 J-Pop Hit Songs] A Roundup of Timeless Classics Still Remembered Today! (11–20)
DESTINYMy Little Lover
Released in May 1998 as My Little Lover’s 11th single, “DESTINY” also drew attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama WITH LOVE.
It reached No.
4 on the Oricon weekly chart and No.
46 on the year-end chart, becoming a signature work from their mid-period.
The interplay of the strings in the instrumental break after the first verse is exquisite.
The Blue AgeKinKi Kids
A ballad by KinKi Kids whose poignant piano melody and the two singers’ interwoven harmonies strike straight to the heart.
Released in July 1998, this song was chosen as the theme for the drama “Aoi no Jidai,” starring member Tsuyoshi Domoto, and became a massive hit, topping the Oricon chart for four consecutive weeks.
The unique pains and conflicts of youth, along with a bittersweet longing for days that slip away, seep deeply into the listener’s heart.
Many will likely relate to the lyrics, which portray the importance of weaving love within our limited time.
precious; important; valuableSMAP
It’s a mid-tempo ballad whose straightforward message—that the presence of the person beside you makes you stronger—hits you right in the heart.
Sung powerfully by SMAP, the song gently teaches us that true happiness is hidden in the small moments of everyday life, set against scenes of dusk.
Released in May 1998, it became a memorable track for many as the theme song of the Monday 9 p.m.
drama “Brothers,” starring Masahiro Nakai.
Put it on as BGM during a drive with someone special, and you just might find yourself able to express the gratitude that you’re usually too shy to say out loud.
ALIVESPEED
With its futuristic sound and grand sense of scale, this moving number by SPEED stirs the listener’s heart.
Even after losing an irreplaceable presence, the powerful message that their soul lives on by your side forever resonates deeply through a bittersweet yet beautiful melody.
Released in July 1998, the song became a major talking point as the theme for the film Andromedia, in which the members themselves starred.
When you’re thinking of someone dear and need the courage to look ahead, it will surely give you a strong push forward.