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 nostalgic ’90s (31–40)
TORA TORA TORAMAX
A song released when the four members of SUPER MONKEYS, who had been in the position of Amuro Namie’s backup dancers, changed their group name to MAX.
This danceable track brought out the individuality and charm of each member, who until then had only been recognized as Amuro Namie’s dancers.
I can’t stay a daydreaming girlAikawa Nanase
Nana Aikawa burst into living rooms like a comet with her red-haired wolf cut and leather jacket, gaining popularity for her bad-girl look and powerful vocals that recalled the former Akina Nakamori.
This song is from shortly after her debut, and it became popular because it matched her delinquent-girl image perfectly.
Summer NudeMagokoro Burazāzu
It’s a single released by Magokoro Brothers in 1995, and in 2013 a drama starring Tomohisa Yamashita based on this song was also broadcast.
The song portrays the bittersweet summer romance between a man and a woman, and the two women who appear in the music video are PUFFY before their debut.
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.
Odoru Pompoko RinB.B. Kuīnzu
Released in 1990, this was B.B.
Queens’ debut single that sparked a massive craze.
As the ending theme for the anime Chibi Maruko-chan, it played in households across Japan and became a national hit that everyone—from kids to adults—could sing and dance to.
It also drew attention for having lyrics written by the original creator, Momoko Sakura.
In fact, the group was a masked super-unit planned by Being, packed with top-tier talent; the outstanding performances by artists like Fusanosuke Kondo and Yuko Tsubokura underpin the irresistibly upbeat sound.
Its mysterious, whimsical phrases stick in your head after just one listen.
The moment you hear the intro, the excitement of those days comes rushing back—a song that truly defines its era.
Classic and Hit J-Pop Songs from the 90s (41–50)
Don’t avert your eyes.DEEN
This is DEEN’s fifth single, which became a million-seller and is widely known as a refreshing summer anthem thanks to its use in the “Pocari Sweat” commercial.
The lyrics by ZARD’s Izumi Sakai portray a straightforward plea—“Don’t avert your eyes”—from someone bewildered by a lover’s change.
Many listeners may feel their hearts tighten at that earnest emotion.
Shuichi Ikemori’s soaring vocals resonate over a sparkling melody that epitomizes the Being sound.
Interestingly, Ikemori himself felt a bit embarrassed by the freshness of the song at the time.
Perhaps that very purity is the charm that continues to shine even now.
suddenlyFIELD OF VIEW
A massive hit by FIELD OF VIEW from the golden Being duo: lyrics by ZARD’s Izumi Sakai and music by Tetsurō Oda.
Just hearing the guitar riff in the intro is enough for many to picture blue skies and that Pocari Sweat commercial.
Yūya Asaoka’s endlessly soaring high-toned voice captures the sparkle and exhilaration of a love that arrived, just as the title says, “suddenly.” The strikingly straightforward lyrics about love are enough to make your heart burn just by listening.
It’s an unfading anthem that makes you feel as if a scene from your own youth is coming back to life, reminding you of those bittersweet emotions you’d forgotten.