Hit J-Pop songs of 2008: recommended masterpieces and popular tracks
Angela Aki, Arashi, Perfume, Shota Shimizu, Ikimono-gakari, GReeeeN…
From the many famous and popular songs that colored the J-POP hit charts of 2009 (Heisei 21), we’ve selected hit tracks recommended by our studio staff.
A playlist that still hasn’t faded with time—one that represents the Heisei era.
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Japanese hit songs of 2008 (11–20)
Fragments of an EncounterKetsumeishi
I think many people use this song for weddings in a variety of moments.
The lyrics, of course, but also the melody make it easy to use for entrances and exits.
Ketsumeishi’s manly, straightforward lyrics make it a song that resonates strongly at weddings.
Oh My Precious TimeSuperfly
Released in May 2008, this is a refreshing beachy pop number.
The song captures memories of a faint first love that blossomed on a summer shore and the irreplaceable moments shared there.
Breezy, sea-breeze-like guitars and open, brassy tones blend with Shiho Ochi’s clear, expansive vocals to vividly color a bittersweet page of youth.
Many may remember it as a Calpis commercial song.
Play it on a drive or when you’re feeling a bit sentimental, and those treasured memories are sure to return gently.
MiracleGReeeeN
This is a song by GReeeeN that was used as the theme for a popular drama.
With this track, GReeeeN’s signature style became widely recognized.
The lyrics resonate deeply with those in the midst of their youth.
It’s a song that makes you want to cherish each moment.
Make my dayAragaki Yui
This is a song by Yui Aragaki, whose voice is adorable.
The music video of her singing is really refreshing, since she usually works as an actress.
It has a pop sound, so I want to listen to it in the morning.
The chorus is very catchy, too.
It’s the kind of song I’d like to hum when something good happens.
umbrellaTOKIO
Written and composed by Ringo Sheena and arranged by Tokyo Jihen, this is a highly thrilling pop-rock track.
Its lyrics are deeply moving, powerfully urging a cherished person to keep moving forward, trust themselves, and not be afraid of getting hurt.
Released in September 2008, the song also served as the theme for the drama “Yasuko to Kenji,” starring band member Masahiro Matsuoka.
It holds a motivating power that gives you a strong push whenever you’re feeling uncertain.