[Heisei Retro] Hit Japanese songs that defined the 1990s. Recommended J-POP classics.

I was only looking at you.To Be Continued

To Be Continued — I Was Only Looking at You

Released in March 1994, this song became a major hit, staying in the Top 10 of the Oricon Singles Chart for seven weeks.

It was used as an insert song for the TBS drama “If Only Wishes Could Come True” and became To Be Continued’s biggest hit.

The lyrics, centered on deep love and bonds, express unwavering feelings for a loved one.

It sings of a relationship built on profound love and mutual support—always being there with an unadorned heart—resonating with many listeners.

The song was also a commercial success, achieving double platinum.

Many people may relate to its powerful message: even on nights when you feel like you might be crushed, you can overcome it because you have someone you love.

Embracing sleepless nightsZARD

ZARD - Embracing Sleepless Nights - Copy

This is ZARD’s fourth single, released in August 1992, and it was used as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s program “Tonight.” ZARD vocalist Izumi Sakai’s clear, translucent voice and the emotionally resonant melody leave a strong impression.

It’s a ballad that delicately portrays the quiet of the night and a wistful, aching sentiment, cherished by many fans.

The lyrics depict the feelings of spending a sleepless night while reflecting on past memories.

You can sense a longing to return to an innocent, almost girlish smile, even as the singer feels a sense of loneliness in reality.

It’s a song that conveys nostalgia for lost time and past memories, while also holding a glimmer of hope for the future.

If you listen to it alone on a quiet night, it will surely seep into your heart.

Surely more than anyone else in the worldNagayama Miho & WANDS

Surely More Than Anyone in the World – Miho Nakayama & WANDS (Aiemu Acoustic cover)

This is a song etched in memory as one of the defining classics of the ’90s.

A miraculous collaboration between Miho Nakayama and WANDS, it captured the hearts of many listeners with lyrics expressing a powerful love and a wish to be by someone’s side.

Released in October 1992, it became a massive hit, surpassing one million copies sold in just 20 days.

It was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Dareka ga Kanojo o Aishiteru” (“Someone Loves Her”), remaining in many people’s memories alongside the show.

With lyrics that seem to speak on behalf of those in love and a melody that resonates deeply, it’s perfect for conveying your feelings to someone special—a song that will give your romantic heart a gentle push.

threadNakajima Miyuki

Thread – Miyuki Nakajima (Full)

A signature song by Miyuki Nakajima that captured many hearts with its relaxed melody and deeply resonant lyrics.

After being included on the 1992 album “EAST ASIA,” it gradually gained popularity and drew widespread attention when it was used as the theme song for the 1998 drama “Seija no Koushin” (March of the Saints).

The masterful lyrics, which liken encounters and bonds between people to threads, have struck a chord with many, making it a frequent choice at life’s milestones such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.

In 2020, it was adapted into a film starring Masaki Suda and Nana Komatsu, and it continues to be loved across generations.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you want to feel the bonds with someone important.

I can’t stay a daydreaming girlAikawa Nanase

Yume Miru Adolescence 'I Can't Be a Dreaming Girl'

Ms.

Aikawa is a female rock singer who represents the 1990s.

These days, it’s said that more and more young band girls are covering her songs.

If that’s the case, she might gradually come to occupy a position among the youth similar to that of Princess Princess.

I’m proudKahara Tomomi

May J. / Streaming on 12/6: “I’m proud”

This is Tomo-chan, Tomomi Kahara’s third single and her biggest hit.

She has self-covered it several times, so there are a few different versions.

Back then, Tomo-chan’s high, clear voice left a very strong impression!

Silent EveKarashima Midori

Silent Eve / Midori Karashima

This song, known as one of Midori Karashima’s signature works, is a heartfelt ballad that brightens long winter nights.

It gently stays close to the listener while captivating them with a wistful melody.

Released in 1990, it portrays the feelings of women spending their time quietly amid the glitz of the bubble era.

Karashima’s emotionally rich vocals tenderly yet powerfully convey the complex emotions of a man and a woman, giving the piece a timeless, universal appeal.

Perfect for the winter season, it brings a gentle warmth to many hearts and shows why it has been loved for so long.

It’s a standard for adults—one to play during a quiet night.