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!
- Hit J-Pop songs of 2014: recommended classics and popular tracks
- Hit J-pop songs of 2005. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.
- 2012 Hit Song Rankings! A roundup of nostalgic classics all at once
- Hit songs that colored 2011! Timeless tracks that bring back those days
- Hit J-Pop songs of 2008: recommended masterpieces and popular tracks
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- [Hit Songs of 2010] A Roundup of Nostalgic Japanese Tracks!
- Iconic Johnny’s songs from the 2000s onward. Nostalgic hits that bring back memories.
- 2000s Japanese Hits | Unforgettable Once You Hear Them! Exquisite Masterpieces
- AKB48’s classic and hit songs: Relive your youth! A comprehensive introduction to their popular tracks
- Songs that were popular last year. A collection of iconic tracks that symbolize 2022.
- Best Hit Songs That Were Popular in 2022 [Top Pick]
- Songs that were popular in 2020. A roundup of hit songs from Reiwa 2.
Hit Japanese songs of 2015: recommended masterpieces and popular tracks (1–10)
24karats GOLD SOULNEW!EXILE
An aggressive dance track bearing the series-defining title “Golden Soul,” it radiates EXILE’s signature overwhelming intensity and the power of the collective.
Beyond sheer exhilaration, it’s infused with a return-to-roots spirit and indomitable fighting will—each listen sets your heart ablaze.
Released in August 2015 as their 46th single and included on the best-of album EXTREME BEST, the song was also beloved as the theme for Nippon TV’s Sukkiri!! and the program image song for Rugby World Cup 2015.
It’s the perfect anthem to hear before a make-or-break moment or whenever you need to steel your resolve—one that gives you a powerful push forward.
Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
How about lifting your spirits with a lively tune? This is a signature song by the popular rock band UNISON SQUARE GARDEN, released in May 2015 as their 10th single.
Chosen as the ending theme for the anime Blood Blockade Battlefront, it became a hot topic and marked the band’s first entry into the top five of the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The funky rhythm, sharp guitar and bass, and Saito’s soaring vocals are simply irresistible! At first glance the song feels poppy and cheerful, but its lyrics portray both the sweetness and bitterness of life.
It’s a wonderful track that blows away everyday frustration and helps you face forward.
Be sure to feel the sound with your whole body!
migratory bird[Alexandros]
![migratory bird[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/O_DLtVuiqhI/sddefault.jpg)
This is one of [Alexandros]’s signature songs, distinguished by its exhilarating, fast-paced sound.
The music surges from a restrained melody into the chorus, where the piercing vocals explode, evoking a liberating feeling as if taking flight into the open sky.
The lyrics convey a strong determination to keep moving forward on the path you believe in, even without anyone’s recognition, reflecting the band’s own journey and striking a deep emotional chord.
The track was included on the single “Wataridori/Dracula La,” released in March 2015, and also served as the theme song for the film “Akegarasu.” The music video surpassed 100 million views in August 2019, a testament to its enduring popularity.
When you’re starting something new or feel lost on your path, this song will surely give you a powerful push forward.
Christmas songback number
It’s the perfect song for a winter night when, despite the glittering bustle of the city, you can’t help but think only of someone special.
The lyrics carefully portray the frustration of not being able to see the person you want to see right away, and the tenderness that overflows anyway—it really tightens your chest, doesn’t it? Released in November 2015 as back number’s 14th single, the track quickly rose to fame as the theme song for the TV drama “5→9: From Five to Nine.” Produced by Takeshi Kobayashi, its warmly poignant sound—woven from piano and strings—is exceptional.
Gently embracing everyone in love, as well as those spending the holy night with a touch of loneliness, this piece is also included on the acclaimed album “Chandelier.”
I tried falling in love with you.chay
The sixth single released in February 2015 by chay, who is active as both a model and a singer-songwriter, became popular as the theme song for the Monday 9 p.m.
drama “Date—What Is Love Like?” starring Anne.
The song is packed with the pure feelings of a protagonist who’s clumsy in love.
Its retro, pop sound reminiscent of the ’60s, complemented by lush strings, perfectly captures the giddy excitement of the moment a romance begins.
The lyrics portray that magical, empowering feeling that makes you think you can do anything just because there’s someone you like—something many listeners can relate to.
It’s a bright, pop number you’ll want to play to lift your spirits, like right before meeting someone special.
Because it’s so warm♪kumamushi
A song by the comedy duo Kumamushi, born from the unique premise of “being reborn as a girl and making an idol debut.” It originally started as part of a manzai routine, but its catchy melody and phrases quickly became a hot topic.
Like serving a special dish to someone dear, this work delivers straightforward kindness and affection, touching many hearts.
Shunsuke Hasegawa’s sweet, translucent vocals further enhance the song’s warm atmosphere.
Released as a single in February 2015, it was also featured in commercials and drew major attention, including becoming the first entry by a comedian in about three years to reach the Oricon Weekly Top 10.
It’s a track brimming with charm—one that gently spreads warmth when you listen to it on a slightly chilly day.
It’s not me unless it’s meGesu no Kiwami Otome.
This is a celebrated song whose philosophical lyrics, affirming one’s unique self, resonated with many.
Released in April 2015 as Gesu no Kiwami Otome’s second single, it became widely known through a Coca-Cola commercial.
The protagonist crafted by Enon Kawatani gives us courage as they accept their past self and look forward.
Despite its breezy sound, the ensemble features a wealth of highlights with complex, prog-like developments.
Performed at the 66th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, this track is one that gently gives you a push when you’ve lost confidence or feel down from comparing yourself to others.