[Hit Songs of 2010] A Roundup of Nostalgic Japanese Tracks!
Do you remember which songs lit up Japan’s music scene in 2010? Timeless masterpieces and hits that still bring back the excitement of those days, even as the years pass.
In this article, we’ve gathered 2010 releases that became hit songs—from tracks featured in TV commercials and drama theme songs to popular tunes everyone sang at karaoke.
Just hearing them is sure to stir nostalgic memories for many! Please enjoy them along with music videos that capture the spirit of the times.
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[2010 Hit Songs] A roundup of nostalgic Japanese tracks! (11–20)
StrongerEXILE
This is an emotional ballad by EXILE that moved many to tears as the theme song for the film “THE LAST MESSAGE Umizaru,” which portrays the passionate human drama of Japan Coast Guard officers.
With strongly message-driven lyrics that sing of deep bonds between people and a firm resolve toward the future, the song’s grand melody—spanning over seven minutes—strikes straight to the heart.
Released in September 2010 during the group’s 10th anniversary year, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
Many listeners were surely moved by the interplay of ATSUSHI and TAKAHIRO’s emotional vocals.
Dear Snowarashi
It is a fragile yet beautiful love ballad that evokes the image of snow quietly falling.
As the theme song for the film “Ohoku,” starring group member Kazunari Ninomiya, it added color to the story.
Portraying the protagonist’s pure love and unwavering resolve—even to the point of sacrificing their own life to protect the one they love—the song’s single-minded devotion moves the hearts of listeners.
Released in October 2010, it resonated with many, selling about 501,000 copies in its first week, and was later included on the album “Beautiful World.” It’s a song filled with warmth and poignancy that accompanies the feeling of thinking about someone precious in the clear air of winter.
AiHata Motohiro
A masterpiece ballad where Motohiro Hata’s vocals—both powerful and translucent—ride the simple tones of an acoustic guitar to strike straight at the heart.
This work portrays an unadorned, ultimate form of love, one that is fulfilled simply by being by someone’s side.
Released in January 2010 as his ninth single, it reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and is also included on the acclaimed album Documentary.
When you want to savor your feelings for someone special, why not lend your ear to this song?
I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi
Folk duo Billy BanBan’s classic “Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru” has been covered by enka singer Fuyumi Sakamoto! The lyrics, delicately portraying the uniquely Japanese subtleties of emotion and scenery, pair beautifully with Sakamoto’s fragile, sultry voice.
It’s also fun to compare the nostalgic original with the passionately persuasive cover.
I’ve always liked you.Saitō Kazuyoshi
Kazuyoshi Saito’s signature song “Zutto Suki Datta” was released in April 2010.
It was originally written as a song for Shiseido’s IN&ON commercial, but it became a long-running hit and is now one of his most representative tracks.
It’s also a karaoke staple.
Stop this nightJUJU
Kono Yoru o Tomete yo by JUJU, which was selected as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Guilty: Akuma to Keiyaku Shita Onna,” is a compelling piece.
In 2010, JUJU released around five singles, most of which were used as drama theme songs or television themes.
Though it is a gentle ballad, the strength of JUJU’s voice and her exceptional vocal ability stand out.
[2010 Hit Songs] A Roundup of Nostalgic Japanese Tracks! (21–30)
Soul RevolutionSuperfly
This song is strongly associated with being the theme song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
The artist wrote both the lyrics and music, apparently with the intention of creating a song that could support the Japanese players.
Both the vocals and the lyrics are powerful, aren’t they?
