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)
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.
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.
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 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.