[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!
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- Nostalgic Yet Everlasting: Classic Hits by 1990s Idol Singers
- A coming-of-age song that was a hit in the ’90s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
[1999 Hit Songs] A roundup of the classics that dominated the charts! (11–20)
SquallMatsumoto Eiko
Eiko Matsumoto is a singer known for her exquisitely clear, translucent voice.
This song—written and composed by Masaharu Fukuyama—portrays a woman’s delicate feelings as a sudden rainstorm unlocks the love she had tucked away.
Released in September 1999 as her second single, it was featured as an insert song in Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.
drama “Perfect Love!” Its heartrending worldview resonated with the story and became a major talking point.
The gentle interplay of piano and strings evokes the crisp air after the rain.
It’s a gem of a ballad you’ll want to listen to quietly when you’re in a sentimental mood.
TO BEHamasaki Ayumi
Released in May 1999 as Ayumi Hamasaki’s eighth single, this work reached a peak position of No.
4 on the Oricon chart.
Beneath its dazzling, pop-infused sound lies a philosophical message that steps back to observe the self and questions the meaning of life.
It was featured in JT’s “Momo no Tennen-sui” commercial, and many may remember the ad in which Hamasaki herself appeared.
Later included on the acclaimed album LOVEppears, this track is one that stays by your side on nights when you quietly face yourself at a crossroads in life.
somedayyuzu
Released in January 1999 as Yuzu’s first maxi single and later included on the album “Yuzuen,” this is a classic track.
It paints scenes so vivid you can almost see the pure white snowy landscape, while expressing a steadfast devotion to someone precious that remains unchanged despite the distance—stirring the listener’s heart with a poignant ache.
The ensemble of acoustic guitar and strings, along with Iwasawa’s harmonica, further enhances the warmth and wistfulness of the piece.
It’s a gem of a folk ballad that gently accompanies the feelings of savoring the past and dreaming of the future.
That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky19
This is the second single released by 19 (Juke), a classic beloved by a wide range of generations.
In an online vote held for their best-of release, it proudly took first place.
The song is characterized by its warm, heartfelt vocals and calming sound.
ApolloPorunogurafiti
One of Porno Graffitti’s signature songs.
It captures the moment of the moon landing in song—a hugely impactful track you won’t forget after a single listen.
The melody, rhythm, and sound are all simple yet striking.
Even decades after its release, plenty of people can probably still sing the chorus right away!