[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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[Hit Songs of 2010] A Roundup of Nostalgic Japanese Tracks! (41–50)
Screen of the EyesHey! Say! JUMP
While it has the feel of a Johnny’s-style idol song, it also carries a touch of nostalgia.
It’s easy to listen to not only for young people but also for the mother’s generation.
It’s not as gentle as a ballad nor as intense as a dance number, so it’s easy to sing.
A lovestruck ordinary personsupittsu
It’s a very Spitz-like song.
The lyrics also convey a worldview that only Masamune Kusano could write.
It isn’t extremely upbeat, but it’s quintessentially Spitz in the way it says: don’t lose your own pace—do your best in your own way.
Ponytail and ScrunchieAKB48
When it comes to iconic summer songs of 2010, “Ponytail to Shushu” is the one.
Atsuko Maeda and Minami Takahashi served as the centers, and the lineup is full of members who symbolize AKB’s golden era.
It was also hugely popular at karaoke—someone would always sing it.
Gimme Chocolate!!BABYMETAL
They’re still incredibly popular overseas.
When they formed, it was nothing short of astonishing! They’ve been invited to prestigious festivals abroad, and as soon as BABYMETAL’s set begins, the crowds of overseas metal fans rush in.
That phenomenon is undeniably real.
This song is one of their signature tracks.
As expected, the skill and coolness of the backing band are something that those in the know truly appreciate.
Family ~ Becoming OneKinKi Kids
This is a rare single in which both members of KinKi Kids handled the songwriting and composition.
The lyrics were written by Tsuyoshi Domoto, and they reflect his unique worldview—beautiful yet filled with profound sadness.
The song is a ballad, gentle and soothing in tone.
365 daysMr.Children
A track from Mr.
Children’s 16th album, SENSE, beloved across generations.
It’s well-known for being used in a commercial, and it’s also a popular choice as background music at weddings and receptions.
This wonderful song expresses the desire to cherish the love and feelings that arise in the everyday life of 365 days.
Feathers of the HeartChīmu Doragon from AKB48
This is a song by a unit formed from seven popular AKB48 members (Atsuko Maeda, Minami Takahashi, Mayu Watanabe, Yuko Oshima, Tomomi Itano, Haruna Kojima, and Yuki Kashiwagi).
Since it was used in a popular anime, it’s also a hit with children.
There are many units within AKB, but it’s rare to see one this all-star.