[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 (51–60)
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.
Kujira No. 12JUDY AND MARY
It was released in 1997 as JUDY AND MARY’s 11th single.
The meaning of “12” is said to come from the number 12 in soccer, which is considered the supporters’ number.
The whale is woven very cutely into the lyrics, making it a fun song.
STARTJUN SKY WALKER(S)
JUN SKY WALKER(S), a rock band that rose to fame on pedestrian-paradise streets and won overwhelming support from young people.
Their 1991 release START was featured in a Lawson commercial.
The song resonates with its approachable melody and straightforward guitar sound.
The lyrics really hit home, making you feel like starting something new.
Vocalist Kazuya Miyata’s powerful voice gives it convincing force.
Recommended not only for rock fans but also for those who like J-pop and punk.
KISSPRINCESS PRINCESS
Released in May 1991 as PRINCESS PRINCESS’s 11th single, this song features lyrics co-written by Kyoko Tomita and Kanako Nakayama, with composition by Kaori Okui.
Chosen for Suntory Foods’ “Kōcha no Ki” commercial, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart and became their final number-one hit.
Certified Platinum with sales exceeding 400,000 copies, the track stands out for its brisk rhythm and liberating, anthemic chorus—an irresistible blend of rock and pop.
In an era shadowed by anxieties over what was being lost, their bright, exhilarating song offered encouragement to many.
[Japanese Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the ’90s. Nostalgic hit songs (61–70)
Gotta GAMBA, right?LINDBERG
Released in 1994 as LINDBERG’s 19th single.
The song was used in a Shinken Zemi Junior High Course commercial and reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
With its rock-infused sound and uplifting lyrics, it offers encouragement to those pursuing their dreams.
Hello! Orange SunshineJUDY AND MARY
It was released in 1994 as JUDY AND MARY’s fourth single.
The song was used as the NHK BS Tuesday image song, with lyrics written by YUKI.
Overflowing with YUKI’s unique worldview, it’s a cute and fun track that feels like going on a picnic.
Summer Colorsyuzu
This is an ode to youth that vividly captures the image of young people speeding down a hill on their bicycles.
Released in 1998, this song brought a fresh breeze to the music scene as Yuzu’s major-label debut single.
Featuring the refreshing sound of acoustic guitars and the crisp harmonies of Yujin Kitagawa and Koji Iwasawa, it was included on the album “Yuzu Ikka” and later used in 2017 as the theme song for Lotte’s “Sou” commercial.
Its lyrics, filled with summer memories and the bittersweetness of first love, gently portray a moment of youth that everyone can relate to.
The song is still used as the approach melody at Keikyu Kami-Ōoka Station, and has become a seasonal fixture woven into the fabric of the city—a quintessential summer track.
It’s perfect for the time of year when the start of summer is in the air, or when you want to look back on memories with someone special.