[1998 Japanese Hit Songs] A roundup of timeless classics that still live on in people’s memories!

precious; important; valuableSMAP

SMAP / Taisetsu (cover) by Shun Ohno

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.

I can’t even breatheZARD

SARD UNDERGROUND “Breathless (off chorus)” MV

This ZARD classic sets the chest-tightening, heart-racing moment of falling in love to a driving rock sound.

It captures a straightforward love so consuming that you can’t think of anything but the other person.

The lyrics sparkle with the early stages of romance, and Izumi Sakai’s vocals—combining clarity with strength—leave a lasting impression.

Released in March 1998 as their 24th single, it became widely known as the opening theme for the anime “Chuuka Ichiban!” and reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Listen to it as a fight song when you’re about to take on something new, and you’ll surely feel courage welling up from deep within.

Her and My CircumstancesAikawa Nanase

Nanase Aikawa / Her Circumstances and Mine

A punchy rock number by Nanase Aikawa that celebrates breezy, no-nonsense friendship between women.

Many listeners will relate to the powerful, dependable protagonist who values time with her girlfriends over time with a boyfriend.

Released in February 1998 as her ninth single, it reached No.

6 on the Oricon weekly chart and was also included on the acclaimed album “crimson,” released that July.

A highlight is the star-studded chorus featuring YUKI from JUDY AND MARY and Yumi Yoshimura from PUFFY.

It’s the perfect track for blowing away your worries or for a lively night with your best friends.

MARIAkuroyume

maria

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.

DRIVE TO BLUEL’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc～en～Ciel「DIVE TO BLUE」-Music Clip-

An alternative rock number bursting with a sense of speed, driven by piercing, vibrant synthesizer tones.

Released in March 1998 as the lead single from the album “HEART,” it topped the Oricon weekly chart for two consecutive weeks.

The lyrics are said to capture the distinctive early-morning atmosphere felt in boyhood and a liberating sense that you could go anywhere.

At the same time, they convey a certain peril, like plunging into the color blue, offering a depth that can resonate as either hope or despair depending on the listener’s state of mind.

It’s a song that will firmly push you forward when you’re ready to break through your current situation and step into a new world.