[Heisei Retro] Hit Japanese songs that defined the 1990s. Recommended J-POP classics.
When you think of the Japanese music scene of the ’90s, what kind of sounds come to mind? It was an era when million-selling hits kept emerging and CD sales marked a golden age for the music industry.
Hit songs poured from TV and radio into the streets, and everyone was humming the same tunes.
From guitar rock to dance music, from the Shibuya-kei movement to the Being-kei style, a wide variety of genres coexisted, each shining with its own unique brilliance in the ’90s.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of hit songs that colored that rich musical scene.
For those who lived through the era, they’ll feel nostalgic; for first-time listeners, they’ll sound fresh.
Please take your time and enjoy.
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[Heisei Retro] Hit Japanese songs that defined the ’90s: Recommended J-POP masterpieces (91–100)
Beyond the Night SkySMAP
It’s a ballad with lyrics written by Shikao Suga, and there were times during live shows and TV programs when member Kimura played acoustic guitar.
It makes me so sad to think we may never hear them sing it again.
I also love the lyrics that look back on their youth and compare it with the present.
BOY MEETS GIRLTRF
Released in June 1994, this song gained attention as a Coca-Cola commercial tune.
With this track, TRF made their first appearance at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, serving as the opening act.
The lyrics depict the possibilities that encounters bring and the precious moments that enrich life, delivering a message that resonates with listeners.
It also features an innovative fusion of world music elements, such as incorporating a “kecak” chorus recorded by Tetsuya Komuro while on vacation in Indonesia for the ending.
As one of the iconic hits of the 1990s, it continues to be beloved by many to this day.
Go for it!!Urufuruzu
With the motto “Show it, let them hear it, make them dance!”, Ulfuls’s songs always give us energy and vitality.
The music video featuring their distinctive chonmage look greatly boosted the song’s sales and could be called director Tetsuro Takeuchi’s masterpiece.
Like a white cloudsaruganseki
A single that was announced on a variety show.
Saruganseki was originally a comedy duo, but they gained major recognition through this song and the show.
Just when it seemed like they had vanished like one-hit wonders, Ariyoshi made a miraculous comeback.
Eternal, unchanging loveOda Tetsurō
Released in March 1992, this song became widely beloved as the theme for Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat commercials.
Tetsuro Oda composed it as a requiem imbued with feelings for his late brother, and the lyrics throughout reflect his admiration and love for him.
With its husky vocals that resonate deeply, the piece has been covered by multiple artists, including Ryuichi Kawamura and Kobukuro, who featured it on their albums.
Expressing a love that remains unchanged over time, the song can be listened to not only as a lovers’ anthem but also as a tribute to family and friends.
It’s a recommended track for moments when you want to feel the bonds with someone special.
STEADYSPEED
Accompanied by a music video memorable for its sepia-toned seaside scenes, SPEED’s second single was released in November 1996.
It sold 1.5 million copies, earning a spot at No.
5 on the 1997 annual singles sales ranking.
While its bittersweet lyrics speak of love, the song conveys a forward-looking spirit.
Chosen as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Itazura na Kiss,” it captured the hearts of many viewers.
Beyond the allure of their vocals and dance, the track lets listeners feel the group’s growth through its melodic lines.
Filled with feelings for a cherished person swayed by love, it remains beloved by many listeners even today.
for a long timeKiroro
Kiroro’s debut single overflows with the joy and love of finally being able to express one’s feelings, and with gratitude toward the person who waited.
The harmony woven by Chiharu Tamashiro’s endlessly pure vocals and Ayano Kinjo’s warm piano tones gently wraps around the listener’s heart.
Released in January 1998, the song became a massive hit through word of mouth despite having no tie-ins, ultimately selling over 1.2 million copies.
In the spring of 1999, it was selected as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
It’s a song that gives you a gentle push when you find it hard to say “thank you” to someone important.