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.
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Japanese hit songs of 2008 (21–30)
HOMEShimizu Shota
This is one of the signature songs by the talented and popular artist Shota Shimizu.
Many people have surely been soothed by his gentle singing voice.
He’s an exceptionally skilled vocalist, so singing this at karaoke can be quite a challenge—but if you can pull it off, it looks really cool.
DON’T U EVER STOPKAT-TUN
It’s a very cool song that’s so KAT-TUN.
Since KAT-TUN often has a Western-style sound, it’s great to play while driving because it doesn’t get in the way.
The lyrics are also done in a cool way.
love the worldPerfume
It’s a very Perfume-like song.
Rather than about romance, it’s a track I want to listen to for self-empowerment.
Among Perfume’s songs, this one really brings out the techno vibe.
Their dance is adorable too, so I hope you’ll pay attention to that as well.
Spread your wingsZARD
This is a song in which ZARD covers a track by DEEN.
Compared to the male singer’s version, it feels gentler overall.
The tender, enveloping vocals bring a very calm feeling.
It’s the kind of song I’d like to listen to slowly while parked by the seaside.
Storyyuzu
It’s a refreshing, quintessentially yuzu-style song.
It’s the kind of track you want to listen to when you need a boost.
It’s also a song I’d want to listen to together when someone important nearby is feeling down.
I recommend singing it as a cheer-up song at karaoke, too.
Perfect for anyone who wants to take life easy.