Hit songs that colored 2011! Timeless tracks that bring back those days
A music scene like a mirror reflecting its era.
In 2011, Japan experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake, a momentous event that deeply influenced music.
From uplifting songs filled with messages of encouragement to positive tracks that helped us rediscover the joys of everyday life, the year produced many hits imbued with feelings unique to that time.
As we look back on those songs that left a deep imprint on the hearts of people who lived through that period, shall we once again reflect on the power and potential of music?
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Hit songs that colored 2011! Timeless tracks that bring back those days (11–20)
Weekend: not yet.Not yet
They made their single debut as the strongest unit led by AKB’s Yuko Oshima.
The idol vibe is on full display, and the song is catchy.
Even so, I wonder how much AKB-related sales were recorded that year.
It must have been tough for the fans who were buying everything.
Rising SunEXILE
EXILE also scored a hit this year.
This song sold around 300,000 copies, which may seem modest given the group’s current stature, but I believe it paved the way for their later massive success.
If you’re an EXILE fan, this is definitely a must-listen track.
Lotusarashi
Breaking into a ranking dominated by AKB is the hugely popular idol group Arashi.
Arashi has now cemented its status as a top Johnny’s idol group and has become a rare act that captivates the hearts of young women everywhere.
Labyrinth Love Songarashi
It’s the theme song for the drama “Nazotoki wa Dinner no Ato de,” starring Sho Sakurai.
The slightly classical, glamorous sound with striking strings perfectly matches the drama’s worldview, where unraveling mysteries intertwines with the course of romance.
This song conjures the image of a dependable man who, even in a maze-like situation where the future is unclear, firmly takes the hand of someone important and leads them toward the light.
Released in November 2011 as Arashi’s 36th single, it became their 32nd work to top the Oricon weekly chart.
Filled with both strength and tenderness that can blow away anxious feelings, this wonderful track will surely give you a push when you’re stuck or need the courage to take a step forward.
Pareo is emerald.SKE48
One of AKB’s spinoff groups is SKE48.
This kind of idol business model, which can seem like piggyback marketing, draws criticism, but what’s impressive is that it actually sells.
It makes you wonder what’s going on in the mind of the producer, Yasushi Akimoto.
If you’re into idols, this is a must-listen track.
Dear JItano Tomomi
This is a single by Tomomi Itano, who was one of the popular members of AKB.
I think the strategy was to project a more mature image than AKB, and the public received it favorably, making it a hit.
She’s still working hard as a solo singer, so we can expect more from her in the future.
Hit songs that colored 2011! Classic tracks that bring back those days (21–30)
It Has to Be You (duet with Nao Yasuda)KG
I think the cable channel’s rankings are determined by aggregating song requests.
Because of that, there end up being a lot of artists and groups I don’t know.
This was my first time listening to this group as well, but the male–female twin vocals are pleasant, and I can see why it became a hit.