[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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- [Hit Songs of 1996] Spotlight on the iconic tracks and popular tunes that colored the Heisei era!
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- 2003 J-Pop hit songs special: the golden age of music when diversity blossomed
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- Anime songs that were hits in the 1990s. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- 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)
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!
Driver’s HighL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
One of L’Arc~en~Ciel’s signature songs.
It became a major hit, helped by being chosen as the theme song for the anime adaptation of Tooru Fujisawa’s then-popular manga GTO.
This track is a perfect match for driving scenes, and many people probably covered it with their bands during their youth.
GOLDFINGER ’99Gō Hiromi
Hiromi Go’s smash hit! It’s a cover of Ricky Martin’s “Livin’ la Vida Loca,” but it was brilliantly infused with Go’s own style, wasn’t it? I bet many people copied and danced that unforgettable choreography after seeing it once.
A-RA-SHIarashi
This was Arashi’s memorable debut single, chosen as the image song for Fuji TV’s 1999 Volleyball World Cup.
Many people probably still remember their fresh, youthful presence! With its unusual-for-an-idol-song rap section and those see-through outfits, it was a track that left a lasting impression in more ways than one.
instinctShiina Ringo
A music video where she smashes glass while dressed in a nurse outfit made a huge impact! When it comes to Ringo Sheena, many people probably think of this video.
That’s how much the song shook the music scene at the time.
It’s said that she even used a megaphone during live performances, showing an extraordinary attention to staging.
BambinaHotei Tomoyasu
The 18th single by Tomoyasu Hotei, released in April 1999.
It was produced in conjunction with the release of the best-of album “GREATEST HITS 1990-1999.” The title is an Italian word meaning “girl.” Just by listening, you can picture a sexy woman with a mischievous, devilish charm.
For those who yearn for a slightly dangerous romance, this song must have been quite thrilling, don’t you think?
[Hit Songs of 1999] A roundup of the classics that dominated the charts! (21–30)
HEAVEN’S DRIVEL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
An irresistible rock number by L’Arc~en~Ciel, bursting with distorted guitar sound and a thrilling, fast-paced rhythm.
Released in April 1999 as their 16th single, it’s also included on the classic album ark.
Written and composed by hyde, the song depicts a world of driving filled with thrill and pleasure, as if racing toward ruin.
Upon release, it topped the Oricon charts for two consecutive weeks and ultimately became a million-seller, moving over 1.12 million copies.
A killer tune guaranteed to lift your spirits as a driving soundtrack.