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!
- [2013 Japanese Hit Songs] Masterpieces that Colored the Ama-chan Boom, Group Popularity, and the Band Scene
- Hit songs that colored 2011! Timeless tracks that bring back those days
- Hit J-Pop songs of 2007: the appeal of hit tracks that exude a positive vibe
- A Must-See for the Heisei Generation: Nostalgic Songs That Were Popular in the Heisei Era
- Hit J-Pop songs of 2014: recommended classics and popular tracks
- Songs that were popular last year. A collection of iconic tracks that symbolize 2022.
- [Hit Songs of 2010] A Roundup of Nostalgic Japanese Tracks!
- Best Hit Songs That Were Popular in 2022 [Top Pick]
- AKB48’s classic and hit songs: Relive your youth! A comprehensive introduction to their popular tracks
- Hit J-Pop songs of 2015. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- [Recommended for your 20s] Songs that get the crowd going at karaoke | From the latest hits to timeless classics
- Recommended karaoke songs for women in their 20s — Heisei/Reiwa hits and the latest tracks
- [20s] Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Rankings [By Generation]
2012 Hit Song Rankings! A roundup of nostalgic classics (21–30)
It was love.Kanjani∞

The song ranked 19th on the annual sales chart, with 320,000 copies sold.
It’s hard to judge whether that figure is high or low, but I think it’s a respectable number for an idol group’s song.
The members also appear on TV frequently, which directly contributes to their popularity.
Good luckBUMP OF CHICKEN

I think most Japanese high school students and other young people are into idols, and a portion of the rest listen to rock bands like EXILE or this band.
Therefore, I believe they’re a niche minority, but even so, selling around 200,000 copies in an era when singles don’t sell much is impressive.
Prayer ~ Orbit of Tears / End of the day / piecesMr.Children

Ranked 23rd in the annual sales chart with 270,000 copies sold, Japan’s proud rock band Mr.
Children has made the list.
Since they’re essentially an albums-and-live band now, I don’t think they have the power to break through the singles chart that idols monopolize.
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.


