[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 (141–150)
beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)aiko
This renowned song, which portrays the joy and poignancy of love through the changing seasons, was released as a single by aiko in November 1999.
In this work, each season symbolizes a different stage of romance, and from the distinctive perspective of a beetle, it delicately conveys the protagonist’s emotions.
Chosen as a program tie-in, it served as the ending theme for TBS’s “CDTV” in December 1999 and for Fuji TV’s “Jobireba!?” and has since been covered by various artists, including Keisuke Kuwata.
Embracing those moments when the beauty and fragility of love are most keenly felt, this piece was likely a youth anthem for many who came of age in the ’90s.
cherrysupittsu
A song that delicately captures the joys and bittersweet moments of youth was released in April 1996 and continues to be loved across generations.
The magical fusion of Spitz’s gentle melodies and poetic lyrics tenderly embraces a range of feelings—love, parting, and hope for the future.
Included on the album Indigo Chiheisen, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart despite having no tie-in.
Since 2019, it has also been used in NTT East’s commercials, continuing to resonate with many people.
It’s a heartwarming track that stays close to those who carry feelings for someone dear and a faint sense of wistfulness, while holding hope for the future.
Liar! Liar!B’z
This track seizes listeners’ hearts with its overwhelming guitar riffs and high-velocity sound.
Tak Matsumoto’s razor-sharp guitar work and Koshi Inaba’s powerful vocals blend beautifully, and the lyrics—offering a keen perspective on society—are equally compelling.
Released in October 1997 as the lead single from B’z’s ninth album, “SURVIVE,” it reached No.
1 on Oricon’s monthly chart.
It was also featured as the CM song for Perfect TV!’s “MUSIC FREAK TV” and served as the official theme for the NHL’s 1997 Japan Opening Series.
With its aggressive sound and strong message, this song is perfect for moments when you want to fire yourself up or stay true to your convictions.
[Heisei Retro] Hit Japanese songs representing the ’90s: Recommended J-POP classics (151–160)
lipsGLAY
A masterpiece that sensually portrays a heartrending romance, it deftly captures emotions swaying between passion and desire.
The protagonist’s irrepressible impulses and a foreboding sense of love’s fragility fuse beautifully in this gem of a song.
Released in May 1997 by GLAY, it was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s music program “HEY! HEY! HEY! MUSIC CHAMP” and topped the Oricon Singles Chart.
That autumn, it was also included on the acclaimed album “REVIEW – BEST OF GLAY.” It’s a track that resonates deeply when you want to unleash the passion hidden in your heart or when your feelings for someone special are growing stronger.
The powerful performance and emotional vocals create a world that will gently embrace not only rock fans but also anyone struggling with love.
Kujira No. 12JUDY AND MARY
A pop-rock tune with a powerful, bouncing bassline and guitar riffs, reminiscent of high-energy soccer.
JUDY AND MARY crafted this as a cheer song for Japan, filled with their passion for sports.
YUKI’s clear, crystalline vocals and TAKUYA’s memorable ending leave a lasting impression.
Released in February 1997 as the lead single from the album THE POWER SOURCE, the track was also featured in a commercial for Honda’s Live Dio scooter and reached No.
5 on the Oricon chart.
Its refreshing melody and exhilarating drive make it the perfect song when you’re taking a new step forward or want to cheer someone on.
It’s love.V6
A gem of a ballad with lyrics by Goro Matsui and music by Koji Tamaki.
It portrays a protagonist who, lost and lonely, confronts their true feelings and finds the courage to take a new step forward.
Released in January 1997, it became V6’s first non-tie-in single to reach No.
1 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
The song is also included on the album “NATURE RHYTHM” in an arrangement that begins with the chorus.
With gentle lyrics that convey the importance of facing forward in life and a beautiful melody woven by Tamaki, it’s a track that stays close to the hearts of those standing at a crossroads.
FACEglobe
A gem of a dance-pop tune that fuses Tetsuya Komuro’s exceptional production with KEIKO’s richly expressive vocals.
Released as a single from avex globe in January 1997, its sophisticated sound—woven from electronic rhythms and memorable melodies—captures the heart.
Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Kanojo-tachi no Kekkon” and as the CM song for NTT’s “Multi-Net Fair,” it debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
Long cherished as one of globe’s signature tracks, it was also included on the album “FACES PLACES,” selling over 3 million copies.
Its dramatic progression and groovy sound make it perfect for heart-lifting moments or reminiscing about times with someone special.