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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- A collection of nostalgic hits from the Heisei era: Let’s look back at iconic songs from the 1990s and 2000s.
90s nostalgic Japanese pop masterpieces and hit songs (21–30)
Over DriveJUDY AND MARY
An uplifting track where YUKI’s sweet, cute vocals match perfectly with its punky tune.
It shot to popularity after being featured in a Toyota car commercial.
It’s definitely a song you’ll want to listen to on a sunny day drive.
I’m only gazing at youDaikoku Maki
A powerful number by Maki Ohguro, a diva who epitomized the ’90s.
It was also used as an ending theme for the hugely popular anime Slam Dunk at the time, but if you listen closely to the lyrics, it actually portrays the feelings of what we’d now call a “love-is-heavy” girl.
Classic and hit J‑Pop songs from the nostalgic ’90s (31–40)
POWER OF LOVEJUDY AND MARY
This is JUDY AND MARY’s major-label debut single, released in September 1993, where YUKI’s airy vocals and the deliberately sparse arrangement create a unique sonic world.
Its experimental structure, markedly different from their later hits, likely left many listeners puzzled at the time.
The unadorned lyrics sing of the impatience and loneliness felt in a corner of the city, yet quietly affirm the latent energy within the listener.
Although it debuted modestly at No.
95 on the Oricon chart, it stands as the band’s origin, later included on their first album, “J•A•M.” When you’re hesitating to take a step forward or want to trust your authentic self, this work is sure to gently nudge you from behind.
Man & WomanMy Little Lover
Released in May 1995, this was My Little Lover’s debut single, and despite being newcomers, it became a hit with total sales of about 917,000 copies.
Its light, stylish sound reminiscent of French pop blends beautifully with Akko’s translucent vocals.
The song seems to depict the subtle emotional shifts between men and women—the missed connections, and yet the irresistible pull toward one another.
Later included on the classic album “evergreen,” which went on to sell over two million copies, this track captured many hearts.
It’s a song that gently accompanies that slightly sentimental feeling where hope and anxiety mingle just before love begins.
Rapturous BluePoketto Bisuketsu
This is the landmark debut single from Pocket Biscuits, a group that tore through the music scene with a passion that’s hard to believe came from a TV show concept.
Released in April 1996, the single sold over 500,000 copies in total.
Its synth-driven sound, reminiscent of ’80s Western dance music, sticks in your head after just one listen.
The color blue becomes a vessel for youthful impulse and slightly grown-up infatuation, all conveyed through CHIAKI’s soaring vocals.
There’s a famous story that she was so determined to write the lyrics that she brought along a hundred notebooks to plead her case in person—an anecdote that seems to speak to the pure energy poured into this track.
It’s the kind of song that will surely stir your heart when you’re ready to take on a challenge or just want a little spark in your everyday life.
MIND CIRCUSNakatani Miki
Produced by Ryuichi Sakamoto, this work is notable for its urban, weightless sound.
Miki Nakatani’s cool, translucent vocals resonate like a kaleidoscope reflecting inner landscapes, instantly drawing listeners into its world.
Many will likely find themselves deeply absorbed by the song’s almost philosophical lyrics.
Released as a single in May 1996, the track colored the story as an insert song for the drama “Watch Out for Us,” in which Nakatani herself played the heroine.
Its 11-week run on the Oricon charts stands as proof of its appeal.
Why not listen to it on a night when you want to step away from the city’s clamor and have a quiet conversation with your own heart?
Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako
This is the memorable debut single of Takako Matsu, who had already earned high acclaim as an actress.
Released in March 1997, it was also featured in an NTT commercial and became a hit, selling about 500,000 copies.
The warm, springlike melody—like sunlight filtering through the trees—matches perfectly with her clear, translucent voice.
The lyrics depict bittersweet memories of days gone by and a poignant longing for someone dear.
The scenes from those days, when you simply watched “you” devoted to your passion, come vividly to mind.
Listening to it in the season when farewells and new encounters intersect—graduations, new beginnings—might fill your heart with both nostalgia and hope for the future.