Heisei-era masterpieces revisited through the hit songs of 2001
When you think of the music scene in 2001, what songs come to mind? It was a year that produced countless memorable tracks—from million-selling masterpieces to hidden gems that still linger in our hearts today.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of 2001 hits: nostalgic for those who listened in real time back then, and fresh for those who’ve only recently become curious.
Why not take this opportunity to immerse yourself once again in the world of Heisei-era hit songs?
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- Hit songs that colored 2011! Timeless tracks that bring back those days
- Heisei-era masterpieces. Hit songs that represent the Heisei period.
- Heisei Song Collection: Iconic Hits That Colored the ’90s and 2000s
- A collection of nostalgic hits from the Heisei era: Let’s look back at iconic songs from the 1990s and 2000s.
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- Unrequited love songs of the Heisei era. Those nostalgic classic tunes.
- Cool songs of the Heisei era. Hit tracks that energized the times.
- 2000s Japanese Hits | Unforgettable Once You Hear Them! Exquisite Masterpieces
- [Heisei Songs] Classic hits from the Heisei era that are popular on Instagram Reels
- A Must-See for the Heisei Generation: Nostalgic Songs That Were Popular in the Heisei Era
Heisei Masterpieces Revisited Through 2001 Hits (61–70)
evolutionHamasaki Ayumi
When it comes to Japanese divas, for our generation it has to be Ayumi Hamasaki, right? One of her 2001 hit songs is “evolution,” memorable for its rock-style drum intro.
I bet many of you have heard the chorus.
Let’s all sing together: “whoa—yeah— whoa whoa whoa—yeah yeah yeah♪”
Gang★Fukuyama Masaharu
This is the 17th single released in advance from the 8th album, “f.” Alongside “Peach!!” and “HEAVEN,” this song is said to form a trilogy centered on addiction.
It’s a track with a mood-rich melody and an atmosphere that feels as if the lyrics coil around you.
Goodbye, my beloved.Hana＊Hana
This is “Sayonara Daisuki na Hito,” a moving classic by the female duo Hana*Hana.
The two vocalists and the song’s atmosphere make it deeply touching.
The lyrics portray a forward-looking farewell.
It might sound like it’s about romantic love, but it’s actually said to be a song about the singer’s late grandfather.
I WILL GET THEREJ-Friends
It was a unit formed in 1997 by a total of 13 members from three groups—TOKIO, V6, and KinKi Kids—that included members from the Kansai region and were, at the time, relatively young acts under Johnny & Associates.
It was reportedly created to support charity efforts for the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake.
It’s a song notable for its straightforward, forward-looking lyrics.
Love Revolution 21Mōningu Musume.
The intro dance, the chorus melody, and the “cho cho cho ii kanji” in the middle—every part of it is insanely catchy, a god-tier song.
Even with such a striking phrase inserted right before the chorus, the way it ramps things up again in the chorus is nothing short of masterful.
In conclusion
Looking back on the hit songs of 2001, many of you were probably moved by the timeless tracks that defined the era.
Even as we transition from Heisei to Reiwa, these songs haven’t lost their shine and continue to offer fresh excitement.
Whether you enjoyed them in real time back then or belong to a generation that wasn’t yet born, take this opportunity to listen closely and savor them!