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 hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s (21–30)
LOVE PHANTOMB’z
B’z, the monster unit that has continued to lead Japan’s rock scene and rack up multiple million-sellers.
Their 18th single, released in October 1995, was chosen as the ending theme for Season 1 of the overseas drama The X-Files.
From its majestic intro—over a minute and twenty seconds of orchestra and operatic vocals—straight into a sudden avalanche of hard guitar riffs and a soaring chorus, the structure stood out as highly distinctive in the J-pop scene of the time.
The lyrics, swirling with themes of intense dependency in love, self-denial, and the urge to let everything go, make for a dramatic love song that powerfully shakes the listener’s heart.
The single posted an initial week of roughly 950,000 copies and went on to become a massive hit with cumulative sales exceeding 1.86 million.
It’s a rock tune recommended for anyone who wants to experience the essence of B’z—also famous for their live shows featuring high-altitude stage dives.
Transparent GirlNUMBER GIRL
Formed in Fukuoka in 1995, Number Girl was never a band that achieved major commercial success, and in the ’90s they were largely beloved by devoted listeners of Western alternative rock and fellow musicians.
So when they suddenly announced their reunion in 2019, the huge buzz across social media and in the press served as renewed proof of just how powerful their influence had been.
While their musical style evolved with each release, Transparent Girl distills the early appeal that raced forward like the glint of a twisted youth.
Slicing guitars, a thick bass line, hyperactive drums, vocals fused seamlessly with the band’s ensemble, and lyrics so distinctive they spawned countless followers—this is a sound that, to some extent, chooses its listeners, but once it grabs you, it won’t let go.
JAMTHE YELLOW MONKEY
Since their 2016 reunion, The Yellow Monkey—affectionately known as “Iemon”—have been working tirelessly.
Formed in 1988 by experienced musicians, they were a band that initially built their popularity primarily on the live circuit with glamorous rock and electrifying performances.
While their early major-label period saw stretches without notable commercial success, a shift toward crafting more catchy songs helped them grow into a chart-topping act.
One of the songs that came to define them is JAM, released in 1996.
Its lyrics—imbued with a range of feelings reflecting the social climate of the time as well as personal matters—its moving melody, and its dramatic band ensemble all come together in perfect balance to form a supreme rock ballad.
It’s a timeless classic that was even performed on their first appearance at Kōhaku after the reunion.
excuseSha ran Q
A quintessential 90s rock ballad that powerfully voices a man’s aching heart.
This is the 10th single by Sharam Q, the rock band led by Tsunku♂, who is also known as a music producer.
While spouting selfish excuses, the protagonist’s inability to sever his lingering attachment to the lover who left is portrayed over a wistful melody.
Released in April 1996, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Age, 35 Koishikute,” won the Excellence Award at the Japan Record Awards, and cemented the band’s popularity.
It’s a gem of a breakup song that makes you want to pour your emotions into it at karaoke.
PassionSIAM SHADE
SIAM SHADE is often talked about in terms of the hit “1/3 no Junjō na Kanjo,” but they’re a powerhouse hard rock band with overwhelming musicianship, highly regarded by younger heavy metal and hard rock fans as well.
In their indie days, they performed as a fully made-up visual kei band, and there was even a period when, as LUNA SEA’s juniors, members worked as their roadies.
While their major breakthrough was, as mentioned, “1/3 no Junjō na Kanjo,” I’d like to spotlight “PASSION,” which was released in the same year, 1997.
The heavy, downtuned riffs, a solo that makes full use of tapping, and Hideki’s vocals paired with lyrics rich in wordplay are all phenomenal.
It’s a beloved classic among fans.
RALLYCymbals
A late-’90s masterpiece that captures the push-and-pull of romance with deft melodies and a breezy pop sound.
The lyrics liken the psychological battle between a man and a woman to a tennis rally, brilliantly portraying the intellectual feints that toy with the other person, all polished by a driving, exhilarating arrangement.
Released in August 1999 and written and composed by Reiji Okii, the track is also included on the album “That’s Entertainment.” Its wry humor and Asako Toki’s transparent, airy vocals are a perfect match, making it a recommended song for anyone who wants to savor the sweet-and-sour taste of love.
Turn your feet toward the dance hall on 3104th Street.BLANKEY JET CITY
It’s a track that was included on their third album, frequently played live and also featured on their best-of compilation.
Fans know it well, but since it wasn’t released as a single, I think its general recognition is quite low.
It’s an up-tempo tune that’s pure, full-on Blankey style.