2000s Japanese Hits | Unforgettable Once You Hear Them! Exquisite Masterpieces
What kind of music were you listening to back then? The 2000s can be called a turning point for J-POP.
Theme songs from TV shows and dramas, the background music of school life, the songs we sang at karaoke—many people only need to hear them and a page of youth, etched together with the music, comes vividly back.
In this article, we present hit songs that defined the 2000s.
Shall we look back once more at the music of that special era, where nostalgia and novelty intertwined?
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2000s Japanese Hit Songs | Unforgettable Once You Hear Them! A Collection of Gem-like Masterpieces (41–50)
I wonder if it will be sunny tomorrow.Kuwata Keisuke
The sweeping ensemble of grand piano and strings stirs the heart, doesn’t it? This piece was released in May 2007 as singer-songwriter Keisuke Kuwata’s first solo single in about five years—he’s also known as the frontman of Southern All Stars.
It was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Operation Love,” so many people may remember it.
While lamenting the past, its lyrical words entrust a modest hope to the future, resonating deeply as they ride on Kuwata’s characteristically expressive melody.
When life brings you to a halt, this song gently nudges you forward and gives you a small courage to face tomorrow.
It’s a warm, timeless ballad that stands as a milestone in J-pop history.
water lily blossomShonan no Kaze
This is the sixth single by Shonan no Kaze, a track whose appeal lies in the powerful groove born from four distinct personalities clashing and fusing together.
Its passionate beat boldly incorporates soca, the traditional music of the Caribbean, and the relentless mic relay really cranks up the energy.
The song overlays the image of a water lily blooming beautifully out of the mud with the hope of overcoming hardship and living strong.
Released in June 2007, it peaked at number two on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
It also topped the ranking of karaoke songs that burn the most calories while singing—a convincing accolade for an upper-tune that’s perfect for going all out at summer events or in karaoke.
SPECIAL THANKSGLAY
A signature ballad by GLAY, a band that represents Japan’s rock scene.
As the title suggests, it’s a grand piece that sings of “special thanks” to a loved one, featuring a melody that blends into the slightly melancholic air of autumn.
Released in August 2000, the single became a million-seller and was used as the theme song for the film “Mirai Nikki.” It was also included—by fan vote—on the acclaimed compilation “DRIVE-GLAY complete BEST,” making it a quintessential GLAY number.
I want to be your lover.Abe Mao
A love song released as Abe’s second single.
She wrote it in her senior year of high school, capturing the feelings she had during an unrequited crush.
The music video was filmed, at her request, at her alma mater, Oita Prefectural Oita Nishi High School.
sign; mark; symbol; omenMr.Children
This is a signature ballad by Mr.Children, featuring an inspiring ensemble that unfolds from a quiet piano melody into grand strings.
Its universal lyrics can be heard as either a song of meeting or parting, gently accompanying each listener’s personal story.
Released in November 2006, it was used as the theme song for the drama “14-Year-Old Mother,” which became a social phenomenon.
Many were surely moved by its melody and Sakurai’s passionate vocals.
With total sales exceeding 740,000 copies, it’s truly a love song that symbolizes the 2000s, reminding us of the bonds we share with those we hold dear.