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?
- Japanese Music of the 2000s: Revival Included! A J-POP Hit Song Special
- Hit J-Pop songs from 2002. Recommended classics and popular tracks.
- Breakup songs that were hits in the 2000s
- 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 Era Classics Revisited Through 2001 Hit Songs (41–50)
Stand UpKuraki Mai
Mai Kuraki, who has performed many theme songs for the anime Detective Conan, had a 2001 hit with “Stand Up.” It’s an uplifting song with her characteristically powerful vocals.
The association with Conan is strong, and hearing Mai Kuraki’s voice takes me back to my elementary school days and fills me with nostalgia.
Fool of LoveGoto Maki
This song is the solo debut single of Maki Goto, known as Goto Maki from the former Morning Musume.
The lyrics, written from a female perspective, will likely resonate with many women.
By the way, it’s striking that despite being so active, she was only 15 years old at the time.
Always With MeKimura Yumi
This song, which became extremely famous as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film Spirited Away, released in the summer of 2001.
Its distinctly Ghibli-like atmosphere overflows throughout the piece, captivating many fans.
The beautiful lyrics are also highly memorable, making it a truly wonderful song.
LOVE Tear-ColoredMatsuura Aya
Aya Matsuura’s breakthrough 3rd single is said to have gained recognition for being the set piece in Morning Musume’s 5th-generation member auditions.
The song also earned her a spot on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
It’s a breakup song that conveys a very strong sense of determination.
Look Back AgainYaita Hitomi
Hitomi Yaida is a singer-songwriter whose lively, slightly distinctive singing voice is incredibly captivating.
2001 was the year she graduated from university, and this song was released that same year.
Her exceptional vocal ability and the unique qualities of her voice are her greatest appeals, and you can fully appreciate them in this track as well.
It’s the kind of song you’ll find yourself wanting to listen to over and over again.
Fish Fight!yazaru
This is the 11th and final single by Yaen, a unit formed by Tunnels and the staff of the TV show “Tunnels no Minasan no Okage Deshita.” The song features a crucian carp (funa) as the protagonist, who, while harboring an inferiority complex toward other fish like koi, strives to live with strength.
Although the song’s worldview is rather hard to grasp, it’s extremely catchy and easy to get into.
dizzinessOnitsuka Chihiro
It’s one of the songs included on Chihiro Onitsuka’s album “Insomnia.” Many of her songs are very emotional, and the lyrics are so deep that they can be hard to grasp, and this one really makes you think as well.
With its ennui-tinged atmosphere and her beautiful vocals, it’s a wonderful track.