Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
The 1990s were an era when countless bands across a variety of genres were thriving.
Starting with the Being-kei bands, many visual-kei bands also emerged, and it was around the mid-90s that the melodic hardcore scene really took off in Japan.
Among them, quite a few bands are still active on the front lines today.
In this article, we’ll introduce classic songs by 90s bands that anyone who lived through that era will likely find “so nostalgic!!”
Of course, there are plenty of songs that feel nostalgic, but many of them are still beloved as timeless staples even now.
Please enjoy these tracks packed with the unique charm of that era.
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Classic and Hit Songs by Nostalgic Japanese Bands from the 1990s (11–20)
Nagisasupittsu
This is a song with a mysterious charm, tinged with the bittersweetness of summer’s end and a dreamlike atmosphere.
The sparkling intro feels like it’s guiding you to the boundary between reality and dreams.
The lyrics penned by Masamune Kusano seem to go beyond a simple love song, encompassing the flow of life and even a profound view of life and death.
It’s filled with poetic beauty that stirs the listener’s imagination.
Released as a Spitz single in September 1996 and included on the classic album “Indigo Chiheisen” (Indigo Horizon), the song also became widely known as the theme for Ezaki Glico’s “Pocky Love Story” commercials.
Why not surrender your heart to the timeless resonance of this masterpiece?
Crazy Babyfisshumanzu
A gem of a love song whose gentle, dreamlike melody and wistful vocals seep into the heart.
It beautifully conveys the feelings of a protagonist who pictures their lover’s face in times of sorrow, set to rhythms of reggae and hip-hop.
The poetic lyrics liken the presence of a precious person—someone who remains a source of strength even from afar—to a magical power.
Released by Fishmans in June 1993 and included on the album “Neo Yankees’ Holiday,” this track has become a classic, covered by many artists.
It’s a perfect song for quiet nights when you’re thinking of someone, or when you want to sink into memories of a loved one.
Stay GoldHi-STANDARD
It’s a song from the 1999 album “MAKING THE ROAD,” which was an extraordinary million-seller despite the band being indie at the time.
I remember how shocking it was back then.
With 20 tracks on a single CD, I could listen to it endlessly without getting bored.
They truly are a band that represents the ’90s.
wishB’z
B’z have set numerous records and have long led Japan’s rock scene.
Released in 1995, this song is also known for being used as the ending theme of the nationwide music program “J-ROCK ARTIST COUNT DOWN 50.” Takahiro Matsumoto’s groovy guitar intertwines with Koshi Inaba’s powerful vocals, elevating the track into superb pop rock.
The lyrics, which express a will to carve out the future by one’s own strength rather than merely wishing, and which affirm a very human kind of desire, will give you a push every time you listen.
Wonderful DaysUNICORN
Released in April 1993, this UNICORN piece poignantly sings of drifting apart from close friends, carried by a melody that gently embraces partings and change.
Born from differing musical directions among the members, the song distills Tamio Okuda’s unique charm—its calm atmosphere suffused with quiet sorrow.
In addition to reaching No.
6 on the Oricon chart, it resonated with a wide audience as the theme song for the film Hinagon and in a Sony commercial.
It’s a gem I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone sensing shifts in a cherished relationship or seeking gentle moments of realization in everyday life.
Young PeopleSanīdēi Sābisu
This is a song whose vocals seep into the heart like gentle sunlight, paired with a strikingly beautiful melody.
Through small everyday moments and scenery, it portrays the delicate emotions of adolescence—anxieties and conflicts about growing up, and the uncertainty of staying true to oneself.
The vocals are understated yet leave a deep afterglow, and the simple but richly expressive performance draws you into its world.
Released in April 1995 on Sunny Day Service’s major-label debut album “Wakamonotachi,” it has long been cherished as one of the band’s signature works.
It’s best enjoyed on a quiet night, alone with your thoughts.
You may find that the unspoken feelings in your heart are gently embraced.
Classic hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s (21–30)
Singin’ in the Rainthe pillows
In May 1991, the Pillows included an ambitious track—marking their major-label debut—on the album Moon Gold.
The story begins as the protagonist arrives in a rain-soaked city in search of a new life, vividly capturing a youthful moment of setting out on a journey of self-discovery, despite loneliness and uncertainty.
Inspired by the American film Singin’ in the Rain, the song blends a bright, sprightly melody with energetic performance to create a hopeful piece.
Sawao Yamanaka’s passionately charged vocals, together with the layered sound crafted by the entire band, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
It’s a song that gently nudges you forward when you’re trying to face ahead or take a new first step.