Classic and hit J-pop songs from the nostalgic ’90s
In the 1990s, when CDs sold explosively, countless artists produced signature songs that still stand the test of time.
From among the J-Pop hits that defined the ’90s, this article introduces classic and hit tracks recommended by our studio staff.
We’ve picked a variety of songs: theme songs from smash-hit dramas, beloved karaoke staples everyone in Japan has sung, and timeless favorites cherished across generations.
Be sure to check out this legendary playlist that reshaped the history of Japanese pop music—tracks that will never fade!
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Classic and Hit J-Pop Songs from the ’90s (71–80)
Crazy Babyfisshumanzu
A gem of a love song whose gentle, dreamlike melody and wistful vocals seep into the heart.
It beautifully conveys the feelings of a protagonist who pictures their lover’s face in times of sorrow, set to rhythms of reggae and hip-hop.
The poetic lyrics liken the presence of a precious person—someone who remains a source of strength even from afar—to a magical power.
Released by Fishmans in June 1993 and included on the album “Neo Yankees’ Holiday,” this track has become a classic, covered by many artists.
It’s a perfect song for quiet nights when you’re thinking of someone, or when you want to sink into memories of a loved one.
Surely more than anyone else in the worldNagayama Miho
This work by Miho Nakayama and WANDS was a major hit, selling over one million copies in just 20 days after its release in October 1992.
It drew attention as the theme song for the drama “Someone Loves Her” and reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart.
The fusion of rock-tinged arrangement and gentle melody creates a beautifully balanced harmony.
When you want to reminisce about love or reflect on someone special, be sure to listen to this heartfelt, jewel-like ballad that will resonate with your heart.
The Other Side of LoveSakamoto Ryuichi featuring Sister M
This song is striking for its beautiful harmony woven from a translucent singing voice and a refined melody.
Crafted entirely in English lyrics by Ryuichi Sakamoto, it gracefully expresses universal themes that pursue the essence and truth of love.
This miraculous father–daughter collaboration was released as a single in January 1997 and drew attention as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “Stalker: A Love Untouchable.” It reached No.
6 on the Oricon weekly chart and achieved an astounding sales figure of approximately 720,000 copies.
This work is a quiet, moving masterpiece in which a tender, heart-piercing vocal blends perfectly with a sound that is both delicate and powerful.
Highly recommended as a gemlike, healing ballad you’ll want to listen to alone on a calm night.
Happy endingOhtaki Eiichi
As the theme song for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.
drama, this is a gem of a love song that Eiichi Ohtaki released for the first time in 12 years.
Its gentle, heartwarming melody and lyrics that carefully weave the feelings of a woman in love blend beautifully, leading to a massive hit of 970,000 copies sold since its release in November 1997.
Used in Love Generation, the song also marked Ohtaki’s first-ever Top 10 entry as a solo artist, showcasing his rich musicality to the fullest.
Portraying a sweet yet bittersweet love story, this track is highly recommended for those harboring feelings for someone special or wishing for a happy future with a loved one.
Hungry SpiderMakihara Noriyuki
This is a mysterious song by Noriyuki Makihara, captivating with its sensual Latin rhythms and alluring atmosphere.
Through the image of a butterfly ensnared in a spider’s web, it expresses a poignant heart torn between an unattainable love and self-sacrifice.
Released as a single that reached No.
7 on the Oricon chart in August 1999, this work is regarded as an unusual entry in Makihara’s career.
Its dark, exotic worldview and string-heavy arrangement leave a strong impression, and at times you can sense elements of jazz and fusion—making it a bittersweet yet passionate piece.
Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki
This piece is distinguished by a warm melody that gently embraces the feelings of those who have left their hometowns.
In this song, Noriyuki Makihara weaves his thoughts for friends far away, portraying the universal desire to stay connected despite the distance, and it tenderly resonates with listeners.
It was included on the June 1992 album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono” and later drew renewed attention when it was used in a 2006 NTT East Japan commercial.
The song expresses the wish to have people back home see how one is striving in a new place, while celebrating the importance of unchanging bonds amid personal change.
It is sure to strike a deep chord with those starting a new chapter in life or those who have experienced being separated from dear friends.
I love youKawamura Ryuuichi
A heart-stirring ballad woven from a delicate singing voice and profound expressions of love.
Ryuichi Kawamura’s solo debut is a memorable masterpiece whose romantic melody is matched by vivid imagery that evokes the shoreline.
Chosen as the ending theme for the music program COUNT DOWN TV, the song reached No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart after its release in February 1997, and it continues to shine as one of Kawamura’s signature tracks.
This exquisite love song, sung with sincere emotion, distinctive expressiveness, and soaring high notes, is sure to touch the heart—perfect for a nighttime drive when love is in the air or for special moments with someone important.