Classic Japanese albums: must-listen recommendations
In Japan’s music scene, there are countless outstanding classic albums that continue to resonate in people’s hearts across generations.
These masterpieces possess a timeless appeal that transcends trends and never fades.
Perhaps you, too, have an unforgettable album that holds a special place in your heart.
While the value of music varies with each person’s memories and sensibilities, the Japanese albums widely celebrated by many listeners are packed with undeniable charm.
In this article, we’ll introduce carefully selected classic Japanese albums that have been loved across eras and generations.
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Masterpieces of Japanese music: Must-listen recommended albums (21–30)
Oh timeHoshino Gen
The 4th album from Gen Hoshino, who also showcases his multifaceted talents as an actor and writer.
It’s a masterpiece brimming with vitality, as if he’s expressing with his whole being the joy of making music after overcoming a serious illness.
The sound—an homage to Black music like soul and funk, sublimated into J-pop through a distinctly Japanese sensibility—is irresistibly pleasing.
Packed with numerous TV drama theme songs and winner of multiple awards including the CD Shop Award, this album shines.
Its irresistibly bright dance numbers lift the listener’s spirits and add color to everyday life.
It’s the perfect record to keep by your side when you want to boost your mood.
It hurts.Kiyoshi Ryujin
This is singer-songwriter Ryujin Kiyoshi’s second album, which shook many listeners and was described as “gutting the heart with a searing confession.” Released when he was just 20, it’s packed with cries born of deep confrontation with his inner world.
Beyond the beautiful acoustic melodies, the diverse sounds—from fiery rock to theatrical pop—are striking as well.
The razor-sharp lyrics, depicting the restlessness of youth and questions of existence, are sure to pierce the hearts of those burdened by inescapable loneliness and inner conflict.
You can’t help but be overwhelmed by its raw, stinging worldview, as if bare emotions are crashing straight into you.
I LOVE YOUOzaki Yutaka
A landmark album that marked Yutaka Ozaki’s sensational debut.
The lyrics candidly capture teenage emotions, and the sound—infused with rock ’n’ roll elements—blends with them beautifully.
Released in December 1983, the album includes tracks that were later used in JR Tokai commercials and as TV drama theme songs.
Ozaki’s powerful vocals, a true cry from the soul, resonated with young listeners and continue to captivate many fans today.
Highly recommended for those who want to feel the joys and struggles of youth, as well as a spirit of rebellion against society.
Can’t Say Anything… Summer
This is the ultimate collection of love ballads that lit up television in the early 1990s—the golden age of trendy dramas.
Beautiful ballads like CHAGE and ASKA’s “SAY YES” and KOME KOME CLUB’s “Kimi ga Iru Dake de,” both drama theme songs, remain beloved karaoke staples even today.
Why not hum along, reminiscing about youthful days as you listen to melodies that never fade with time and lyrics that pierce the heart? These straightforward, gut-hitting ballads may even feel fresh to younger generations.
To Your TownASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
Released in October 2004, the album “Sol-fa” is known as a signature work of ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION.
It features the captivating vocals of Masafumi Gotoh, with his distinctive timbre, and the band’s high level of musicianship.
In particular, “Rewrite” was chosen as the theme song for the anime Fullmetal Alchemist and became one of the band’s standout tracks.
The album is infused with indie rock elements, characterized by emotional lyrics and energetic performances.
It’s a highly recommended listen for those who want to revisit their youth or are looking for lyrics that resonate with the heart.
Shut up.Ado
Ado’s major debut album, which sparked a social phenomenon from her very first release.
Featuring 14 tracks, it was released in January 2022 and topped the Oricon year-end album chart.
Created with an all-star lineup of producers including Giga and TeddyLoid, the album is characterized by songs that incorporate elements of J-pop and rock.
The world it weaves—powered by overwhelming vocal prowess and cynical lyrics—grabs listeners’ hearts and never lets go.
It’s the kind of album you’ll want to blast at high volume when you need to blow off steam or reset your mood.
B BLUEBOØWY
BOØWY dominated Japan’s rock scene in the 1980s.
Their 1986 album BEAT EMOTION debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon chart.
With Kyosuke Himuro’s alluring vocals and Tomoyasu Hotei’s technical guitar weaving a thrilling, exhilarating sound, it’s sure to resonate across generations.
It’s a must-listen not only for rock fans but also for anyone interested in ’80s music.
As a timeless classic still beloved by many, this masterpiece is well worth revisiting.