Hit J-Pop songs of 2015. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
Ten years ago, in 2015.
The music scene was filled with nostalgic songs.
Even now, so many timeless tracks still resonate in our hearts.
Songs that colored memories spent with loved ones and pages of our youth.
For those who knew the era, they’re nostalgic; for first-time listeners, they offer a fresh sense of wonder.
We present these wonderful songs along with rare footage.
Their memorable lyrics and soothing melodies will gently awaken your memories.
Savor the hit songs of that nostalgic time!
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Hit Japanese songs of 2015: recommended masterpieces and popular tracks (1–10)
New Treasure IslandSakanakushon
From the very first bars, it’s a retro-yet-fresh dance number that sets your heart racing! Released in September 2015 as Sakanaction’s 11th single, this track—by a band that masterfully fuses rock and dance music—was chosen as the theme song for the film “Bakuman.” The nostalgic synth tones and irresistibly buoyant beat are simply addictive.
The piece reflects the figure of a creator who, like a manga artist racing their pen across the page, persistently sketches out the future.
Even while carrying anxiety and inner conflict, the careful pursuit of ideals feels like an anthem cheering on everyone striving to create something.
It’s the perfect song for lifting your spirits and stepping forward with a positive mindset.
A Long, Short FestivalShiina Ringo
It’s a cool dance tune suffused with the sultry heat of a summer night and a fleeting, ephemeral vibe.
The track is a duet featuring Ukigumo, the guitarist from the band Tokyo Jihen, on vocals.
The rhythm incorporates elements of Brazilian music, and the interplay of the two Auto-Tuned voices is irresistibly captivating.
The lyrics portray a man and woman’s cat-and-mouse game set during a festival night, along with a sense of urgency toward a season that slips away in an instant—evoking Shiina Ringo’s distinctly mature worldview to the fullest.
Released in August 2015 as part of a double A-side single, it was used in Coca-Cola’s summer campaign commercial, making it a familiar tune in many households.
It’s a number you’ll want to listen to on a slightly muggy summer night, soaking in a sentimental mood.
User ManualNishino Kana
Kana Nishino’s 27th single, written as the theme song for the film “No Longer Heroine.” The lyrics, which depict the delicate feelings of women—perhaps a bit hard for men to fully grasp—through the unique lens of an “instruction manual,” resonated widely.
Opening with words of gratitude, the song rides a bright country-pop melody to express a wish to be accepted fully, moodiness and all.
Released in September 2015, it was also included on the acclaimed album “Just LOVE,” and went on to win both the Excellence Award and the Grand Prize at the 57th Japan Record Awards the same year.
Beloved as a wedding staple, it’s a perfect number to help convey your feelings to someone special.
Japanese hit songs of 2015. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks (11–20)
SUNHoshino Gen
Gen Hoshino, who shows multifaceted talent as an actor, writer, and musician, also gained popularity.
In particular, the irresistibly upbeat song was frequently played on FM radio and led to an appearance on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
It was the theme song for the drama “Kokoro ga Pokitto ne” and was also used in Asahi Beer’s commercial for its non-alcoholic beer-taste beverage.
ecstaticB’z
B’z, the solitary rock unit that has erected countless milestones in Japan’s rock scene.
Released for the first time in about two years and nine months, this work portrays a strong will to move forward while holding two conflicting emotions: the exhilaration of reaching the top and the anxiety lurking behind it.
The powerful anthem woven from heavy guitar sounds and forceful vocals understandably captured the hearts of many fans.
The track was released in January 2015, topped the Oricon Weekly Chart, was selected as the theme song for the NTV drama “Gakkō no Kaidan,” and was later included on the acclaimed album EPIC DAY.
When you’re about to lose confidence or facing a major hurdle, listening to it is sure to give you a powerful push from behind.
Heroineback number
A signature ballad by back number that beautifully captures the crisp winter air and the bittersweet ache of unrequited love.
Even while knowing they can’t be the main character in the other person’s story, the narrator’s pure wish to stay by their side evokes a moving, heart-tightening feeling—even for those without similar experiences.
Produced by Takeshi Kobayashi, the song opens with a striking organ tone, followed by Iyori Shimizu’s warm yet heartrending vocals that gently seep into the soul.
Released in January 2015 as their 11th single, it also drew attention as the CM song for JR East’s “JR SKISKI” campaign featuring Suzu Hirose.
It’s the perfect track to revisit the bittersweet taste of an unattainable love or to listen to on a winter night while thinking of someone special.
Night Sky (feat. HAZZY)miwa
Featuring singer-songwriter miwa and welcoming Hazi→, this is their first-ever collaborative track—a gem of a ballad whose piano melody brings tears to your eyes.
It’s heartbreakingly moving, with the emotions of two people who choose to part despite still loving each other sung from both the male and female perspectives.
The addition of the male viewpoint instantly deepens the narrative, making the helpless ache resonate directly in your heart.
Released in August 2015 as part of a double A-side single, the other track, “Stress Free,” served as the theme song for the drama Min-Oh.
It’s the perfect “tearjerker” classic—one you’ll want to listen to under a night sky when there’s someone you can’t forget, as you sink into your memories.