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[Hit Songs of 1999] A roundup of timeless tracks that dominated the charts!
1999 was a turning point that brought various changes to Japan’s music scene.
The achievements of female artists in particular were remarkable, and across a wide range of genres—from J-pop to rock to ballads—many classic songs were born.
The numerous hits from 1999, whose appeal remains undiminished even today, continue to have a major influence on contemporary artists.
In this article, we’ll introduce hit songs released in 1999.
Immerse yourself and enjoy the sound where nostalgia and freshness coexist!
[Hit Songs of 1999] A roundup of the classics that dominated the charts! (1–10)
Why…Hysteric Blue
The fourth single by the rock band Hysteric Blue, who rose to popularity with their distinctive high-tone vocals and pop-leaning sound.
It poignantly sings about the frustration and heartache of love, where feelings miss each other despite being in love.
The pure question of why one’s feelings can’t get through rides on vocalist Tama’s endlessly soaring, emotional voice and truly hits home.
Released in July 1999, the song was used as the theme for the drama “P.S.
Genki Desu, Shumpei” starring Koichi Domoto, and reached No.
2 on the Oricon weekly chart.
Its heartrending melody, which swells in emotion toward the chorus, feels like it gently embraces an irresistible, helpless longing.
Movin’ on without youUtada Hikaru
This is Hikaru Utada’s second single, released in February 1999 while the shock of her debut had yet to fade.
Set to an up-tempo dance sound, the mature lyrical worldview—unbelievable for a 15-year-old—once again left the public in awe.
The lyrics depict a firm resolve to end a relationship and set out alone.
The faint sorrow that seeps through beneath that bold attitude is the part that tightens your chest.
The song was a lead single from the classic album First Love and became her first Oricon No.
1 hit.
It was also well known as a Nissan commercial song.
RESPECT the POWER OF LOVEAmuro Namie
After returning from maternity leave, Namie Amuro’s 13th single, released in March 1999, is a powerful anthem that stirs the listener’s soul.
Sung over a grand, gospel-infused sound, it delivers a universal message of believing in the power of love and facing adversity head-on.
The song’s overwhelming vitality fused with her commanding vocals gives listeners the courage to live.
It was also featured in a KOSE “VISEE” commercial and included on the acclaimed album GENIUS 2000.
The fact that Amuro herself said, after overcoming the tragedy that occurred on the release day, “I’m truly glad it was this song,” speaks to the depth of its message.
LOVE〜Destiny〜Hamasaki Ayumi
Ayumi Hamasaki, who enjoyed immense popularity in the 1990s as a style icon for junior and senior high school girls and dominated the J-pop scene as the Heisei era’s songstress.
Her seventh single, released in April 1999, was a milestone that earned her first No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was also featured as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “Semi-Double.” Written by Ayumi Hamasaki and composed by Tsunku♂, this ballad portrays the helpless, heartrending feelings of two people drawn together by fate.
Her emotionally rich vocals, carried by a beautiful piano melody, deeply move the hearts of listeners.
Dango Three BrothersHayami Kentarō, Shigemori Ayumi
This is a song used on NHK Educational TV’s “Okaasan to Issho.” With its unique and surreal worldview, it captivated listeners of all ages, from children to adults.
Although it’s a children’s song, wouldn’t you say it’s a family song that anyone can enjoy together, regardless of generation?
Crazy Beat Goes On!DA PUMP
This is a dance track brimming with DA PUMP’s positive energy.
With ISSA’s soaring vocals cutting through a poppy, catchy melody, it’s the kind of song anyone will find themselves humming along to.
The lyrics conjure up a powerful image of young people shaking off everyday stress and moving forward with hope for the future.
Released in June 1999 as their eighth single, it was featured in a Suntory C.C.
Lemon commercial—memorable for the dancing office workers.
It’s a perfect mood booster, whether you’re on a drive or looking to get the crowd going at karaoke.
Over and OverEvery Little Thing
Every Little Thing’s 11th single, released in January 1999, was chosen as the ending theme for the Yomiuri TV/Nippon TV drama “Border: Criminal Psychology Investigation File.” It is also included on the best-of album “Every Best Single +3.” The pure lyrics vowing eternal love resonate deeply when paired with Kaori Mochida’s crystal-clear vocals.
The contrast between the drama’s serious atmosphere and the song’s gentle melody surely brings back memories for many.
With its grand synth sound that perfectly suits the winter air, it’s a gem of a love song.