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)
BoogieTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT
Although it even had a music video made for it on the Oricon No.
10 album “Chicken Zombies,” this track has been somewhat underappreciated—perhaps because the same album includes killer tunes like “Get Up Lucy” and “Birdmen,” which overshadow it.
It gives a modest impression with its mid-tempo pace, but its appeal really comes through after repeated listens.
You are not aloneDEEN
When talking about the J-pop scene of the 1990s, you can’t overlook the bands and artists signed to the record label Being, known collectively as the “Being-kei.” Formed in 1993, DEEN is one of the most representative acts of that movement.
Their debut single in 1993, “Konomama Kimi Dake wo Ubaisaritai,” and their 1994 debut album, “DEEN,” both became million-selling hits right out of the gate.
Among their songs, one of the most beloved classics is “Hitori Janai.” Released in 1996 as their ninth single, it debuted at No.
3 on the Oricon chart.
Many will remember it fondly as the ending theme of the TV anime Dragon Ball GT.
Listening to vocalist Shuichi Ikemori’s lyrics, full of positive messages, is sure to lift your spirits.
Classic and Hit Songs by Nostalgic Japanese Bands from the 1990s (31–40)
Touch and changesupittsu
This piece was created during the period when, following their breakthrough with songs like “Nagisa” and “Scarlet,” they shifted from a pop-oriented approach back to their original rock-leaning style.
Produced by Seiji Kameda, the track—lyrics aside—still exudes that unmistakable Spitz quality, even within its twisted, hard-edged sound.
HOWEVERGLAY
By now, there are probably many younger people who don’t know that GLAY began their career in the visual-kei scene and made their indie debut on Extasy Records, run by YOSHIKI of X JAPAN.
As you know, the four-piece from Hakodate, Hokkaido have long transcended narrow genre boundaries and continue to enjoy steady popularity well into the 2020s.
They boast the honor of having the third-highest cumulative CD album sales in Japan’s history, and their popularity—especially from the mid to late ’90s onward—was truly phenomenal, as they churned out one era-defining hit after another.
Their first million seller was the classic ballad “HOWEVER,” released in 1997.
It hardly needs any introduction at this point, but pay special attention to the bass line, which makes smart use of rests and was crafted with a reggae-tinged rhythm in mind—it’s incredibly cool, so be sure to listen for it!
ORIONRAZZ MA TAZZ
RAZZ MA TAZZ, formed in 1994 and sadly disbanded in 1999.
One of the central members, Takuji Miki, passed away suddenly in 2002, and they have not reunited since.
However, their emotionally rich sound remains popular even today.
This is a song where you can savor those bittersweet melodies.
Let yourself go，Let myself goDragon Ash
This is a landmark single released in March 1999 that became the turning point in establishing Dragon Ash’s signature style.
With DJ BOTS officially joining, the arrangement—fusing a heavy band sound with razor-sharp scratching—was truly revolutionary.
The lyrics carry a powerful message: shake off the stagnation and fear of the present, unleash yourself, and step boldly into the future.
It was even used as an insert song in a 2022 drama.
A track that continues to push listeners forward across generations.
Over the rainbowMOON CHILD
Formed in 1995, making their major-label debut in 1996, and disbanding in 1999—a short career span, yet many people likely remember them as the band behind the smash hit “ESCAPE.” At their peak, they were even dubbed the “post-Mr.
Children.” Although they were a band with roots in the indie scene based in Shimokitazawa, they were scouted by avex trax—primarily known for pop and dance artists—and made their debut as the label’s first rock band, which is quite interesting.
Their 1996 single “Over the rainbow,” the group’s first to break into the top 100 of the Oricon charts, is a gem featuring a light, Mr.
Children–influenced sound and lush vocals that make rich use of falsetto.