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 (41–50)
Until the World Ends…WANDS
This is a song by WANDS, a rock band that represents the Being label, used as the ending theme for the anime SLAM DUNK.
The worldview of the work and the lyrics overlap exquisitely, gripping the hearts of fans at the time.
The loneliness and impatience felt in the middle of the city, and the earnest wish to not be separated “until the world ends.” Sho Uesugi’s vocals—like a cry from the soul, with lyrics he penned himself—ride on Tetsuro Oda’s dramatic melody and pierce deep into the heart.
Anyone who has carried emotions with no outlet yet still wished to believe in something will find this song profoundly moving.
A legendary track that continues to shine across generations.
Swaying FeelingsZARD
This is ZARD’s signature song, featured in a Pocari Sweat commercial and certified a million-seller.
Even among the tracks that drove the Being boom, this one stands out for its refreshing feel.
The moment the intro starts, you can almost see the dazzling summer sunshine.
Izumi Sakai’s straight, crystalline vocals beautifully capture the thrill of a budding romance, winning the hearts of many.
The wavering emotions of longing for someone—sweet, a little frustrating—make the pure lyrics deeply relatable.
As a timeless classic, it continues to color the youth of countless listeners even today.
I can’t say it.Gō Hiromi
A signature song by Hiromi Go that sings of aching, unrequited love.
Released in May 1994 and chosen as a TV drama theme, it became a long-selling hit with over 350,000 copies sold.
Its lyrics about the frustration of being unable to confess your feelings to someone you love resonated with many people, propelling it to a record 39 weeks in the Oricon Top 100.
Go’s clear, crystalline vocals further accentuate the bittersweet emotions of the song.
It’s the perfect track for those who’ve fallen for a close friend and worry that confessing might ruin the relationship.
A classic ballad we especially recommend to anyone who carries feelings they wish to keep tucked away in their heart.
Dear My FriendsNagayama Miho
This is a mid-tempo pop number by Miho Nakayama, whose warm message to close friends really resonates.
She wrote the lyrics herself, portraying the gentle way she watches over and cheers on a friend in love.
It has a lovely, letter-like warmth.
The track appears on her June 1993 album “Wagamamana Actress.” It’s the kind of song that can put you in a gentle mood when you’re thinking of a dear friend or driving on a summer day.
Those who feel a sense of nostalgia will surely find it touching as well.
EveOkui Masami
It’s a song that, when you listen to it at summer’s end, evokes a bittersweet resonance deep in your chest.
Sung by Masami Okui, the track takes Adam and Eve as its theme, portraying loneliness and the weight of a love that’s anything but straightforward.
Included on the album “Do-can,” released in September 1998, this piece is written and composed by Okui herself.
It’s one I’d especially recommend for quiet summer nights when you want to get lost in thought or immerse yourself in the song’s profound lyrical world.
Et cetera related to the seashorePUFFY
PUFFY, a female duo, are long-running artists who are still active today.
This track is from shortly after their breakthrough; the lyrics are hard to make sense of, but once you hear it, it sticks in your head and makes you want to start dancing along.
I’m proudKahara Tomomi
This is a signature song by Tomomi Kahara, a central figure in the Komuro Family who took the 1990s by storm.
When the song was released, her relationship with Tetsuya Komuro also drew attention.
It’s a track that fully showcases her allure, with beautifully soaring, sustained high notes.