[J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the 1990s. Nostalgic hit songs.
In this article, we’ll be showcasing a wealth of classic tracks from the Japanese rock scene of the ’90s!
The ’90s were also the peak era for CD sales.
From massively mainstream bands with pop elements, to the visual kei movement that carried over from the ’80s, to high-energy guitar rock and youth punk that went on to influence artists in the 2000s—the ’90s rock scene was truly electric.
It’s also great to see that many artists from that era are still active on the front lines today.
Enjoy these ’90s rock hits—timeless masterpieces that haven’t faded a bit!
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[J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the ’90s. Nostalgic hit songs (41–50)
TearsX JAPAN
Tears, written in 1992 by X JAPAN’s drummer YOSHIKI as the theme song for the 43rd NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, features lyrics filled with his feelings for his father—deeply moving and resonant.
The melodies, crafted by YOSHIKI who is also known as a pianist, gently envelop the listener’s heart.
Toshi’s vocals, with his soaring high tones, are another highlight.
This quintessential ’90s rock ballad will bring you comfort.
KISS MEHimuro Kyosuke
It was released in 1992 as Kyosuke Himuro’s ninth single.
The song was used in a commercial for Boutique JOY and is Himuro’s biggest hit.
The chorus section uses a chord progression very similar to that of “MARIONETTE,” a song by BOØWY, the band he previously belonged to.
Seesaw Game ~A Brave Love Song~Mr.Children
One of Mr.Children’s signature songs, it features an upbeat, breezy rock sound sprinkled throughout with homages to Elvis Costello, whom Kazutoshi Sakurai greatly admires.
The lyrics, which liken the push-and-pull and frustration of romance to a seesaw’s sway, probe human nature while retaining a touch of comedy, and just listening to it naturally lifts your spirits.
Released in August 1995, it achieved an astonishing total sales figure of 1.812 million copies despite having no tie-in.
It is also known that the proceeds from this single were donated as relief funds for the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake.
If only I had held you tighterWANDS
WANDS is a three-piece rock band named after the Ace of Wands tarot card.
Their 1992 release “Motto Tsuyoku Dakishimetanara” (“If I Could Hold You Tighter”) was used in a Mitsui Life Insurance commercial featuring Atsuko Asano.
The striking guitar in the intro and the catchy chorus melody are addictive.
The lyrics, which depict a cool, stoic man, perfectly suit vocalist Show Uesugi’s emotional voice.
This refreshing rock tune is filled with nostalgia and warmth.
RomancePENICILLIN
In the 1990s, when hits emerged across a wide range of genres, the visual kei rock band PENICILLIN stood out by staying true to their unique identity.
Their 1998 release “Romance” was chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Sexy Commando Gaiden: Sugoi yo!! Masaru-san.” HAKUEI’s one-of-a-kind vocals will captivate you more and more with each listen.
The varied guitar phrases and catchy melodies are also highlights.
Even those who don’t usually listen to visual kei will find themselves hooked!