[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 Classics (131–140)
A third of pure-hearted feelingsSIAM SHADE
A gem of a love song that powerfully sings of aching romance.
Chosen as the ending theme for the anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story, it moved countless listeners as one of SIAM SHADE’s signature works.
Released in November 1997, this track generated major buzz as the band’s sixth single.
It expresses pure feelings that can’t reach the other person through an emotional melody and passionate performance.
Recommended not only for those troubled by love, but also for anyone who struggles to put their feelings for someone important into words.
As you listen, it might be a good chance to honestly convey how you feel.
JAMTHE YELLOW MONKEY
This work centers on deep insights into an absurd world and a personal quest.
Its symbolic lyrics, which delve into the meaning of existence and feelings of loneliness, leave a strong impression.
Released in 1996, the song has earned strong support from fans.
It’s a track where THE YELLOW MONKEY’s unique musicality is on full display, and together with its weighty sound, it resonates powerfully with listeners.
The boundary between reality and dreams is drawn ambiguously, expressing protest and resistance against the incomprehensible aspects of society and the world.
It’s a piece that prompts reflection on universal themes such as human existence, time, and love.
It may be the perfect song for moments when you want to think deeply about yourself and the world.
PIECE MY WISHImai Miki
Many of you were likely captivated by Miki Imai’s singing voice.
Known for her warm vocals and profound songs, one of her signature works is this track, which was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Ashita ga Aru Kara.” Released in November 1993, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts, became her first million-selling single, and marked an important milestone in her musical career.
The lyrics, which express the importance of moving forward without giving up when faced with difficulties and the inner strength people possess, have continued to resonate with many.
It’s a heartwarming song that serves as a cheer for those striving to overcome adversity.
An uncool way of getting dumpedŌe Senri
This is a classic song by Senri Oe that delicately portrays the subtleties of a heart after a breakup.
It was used as the theme song for the drama “Men Who Want to Get Married,” in which Oe himself also appeared.
The monochrome music video was striking as well.
With Oe’s characteristically delicate lyrics, it expresses the pain and loneliness of heartbreak, as well as the emotional shifts that come with time.
Listening to this song will likely make many people recall past relationships with a twinge of sadness.
If your heartbreak hasn’t healed, or you’ve recently parted ways with someone important, you’ll probably find much to relate to in this song.
I’m only gazing at you.Daikoku Maki
Released in 1994.
Used as the ending theme song for the TV anime SLAM DUNK, this track stands out among the many hits of the ’90s for its strong kayōkyoku (traditional Japanese pop) flavor.
The closing line of the chorus, “yume no High Tension,” is sure to get listeners pumped up.
White LoveSPEED
SPEED is a four-member female dance-vocal group.
Even now, they are a charismatic presence for young people aiming for success as female groups.
This is one of their rarer winter songs.
Even today, you can often hear it around town when winter comes.
That’s important.Daiji MAN Burazāzu Bando
A powerful song by DaijiMAN Brothers Band that teaches us what’s important in life.
It passionately sings about the importance of not giving up, not quitting, not running away, and believing to the very end.
Since its release in 1991, it has continued to be loved by many.
It was used in a Fuji Fire and Marine Insurance commercial in 1996 and as a campaign song for Sokenbicha in 2005.
If you’re thinking, “I want to fire myself up,” or “I want to take on a challenge but can’t take the first step,” give it a listen—you’ll surely feel a push forward.