2012 Hit Song Rankings! A roundup of nostalgic classics all at once
In this article, we’ll be showcasing a roundup of Japanese hit songs from 2012 (Heisei 24)! How old were you back then? Maybe you were enjoying your student life, just starting out as a working adult and learning the ropes, or perhaps you got married and welcomed a child.
These are all songs that will likely bring back memories the moment you hear them, so please read through to the end! It’s also a playlist you can use as a reference when choosing songs for karaoke!
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2012 Hit Song Rankings! A roundup of nostalgic classics (21–30)
EREitorenjā
Released under the name Eighter Ranger, the single “ER” is the theme song for the film Eighter Ranger, starring Kanjani Eight.
It’s a powerful dance track with a rock-inspired sound that ties in with the movie’s world.
The lyrics carry a strong message about breaking through stifling, pent-up circumstances, rousing yourself, and pursuing your ideals.
Perfect for when you want to fire yourself up!
Run! BicycleNogizaka 46
I think this group is run by the same management as AKB.
The company that operates this series of groups definitely has foresight in the entertainment industry.
Even though they know idols are profitable, it’s impressive how they actually make that connection in practice.
2012 Hit Song Rankings! A Roundup of Nostalgic Classics (31–40)
Love, TexasYamashita Tomohisa
Tomohisa Yamashita is a rare example of someone thriving as a solo artist under Johnny & Associates.
Among Johnny’s talents, his looks and style particularly stand out, so I think he’s well-suited for solo work.
His annual single ranking at 45th is a bit underwhelming, but there’s plenty of room for optimism going forward.
Wild at Heartarashi
The single “Wild at Heart” is the theme song for the Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.
drama “Lucky Seven,” starring group member Jun Matsumoto.
It’s a rock tune characterized by an upbeat guitar riff and funky rhythm.
With lyrics like “Let’s truly enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime journey,” it inspires you to live in the moment—without conforming to someone else’s mold or looking back at the past.
It’s a exhilaratingly positive song.
WANNA BEEEE!!!/Shake It UpKis-my-ft2
They’re also a popular idol group from Johnny & Associates, like SMAP and Arashi.
Since few people buy singles unless they’re devoted music fans, it ends up that songs by idol groups with many die-hard fans sell well, allowing them to dominate the singles charts.
I live, I will keep on living.Fukuyama Masaharu
Masaharu Fukuyama is also hugely popular as an actor, so I had the impression that whenever he released a single it would become a big hit.
However, it seems that even he struggled in this year dominated by idol successes.
The song is a pop track packed with his charm, so fans who don’t know it should give it a listen.
Beautiful2PM
This male idol group is also a Korean group.
Their dancing is distinctive, and I think they differ from popular Japanese idols like Arashi or SMAP.
With model-like physiques, they’re closer to EXILE, which makes it clear that physical build is important for Korean idols.