Millennial Generation: Iconic Heisei-Era Songs That Defined Our Youth
Do you still find yourself humming songs from the Heisei era? When you think back on your youth, don’t you remember the moments you encountered songs that resonated with your heart? For those of the “Yutori” generation in particular, the classic hits of the Heisei period may hold a special place.
Those songs are now spoken of alongside fond memories.
Here, we introduce melodies and lyrics that have been loved across generations.
You’re sure to find one that’s tied to your own cherished memories.
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[Yutori Generation] Iconic Heisei-Era Songs That Shaped Our Youth (31–40)
Song of LoveKōda Kumi
Released in September 2007 as her 37th single, this work is a deeply resonant ballad in which Kumi Koda sings from a new perspective she realized through giving love advice to friends and fans: “love is something you give.” She found inspiration while driving along the coast on a getaway to a hot spring inn, and wrote the lyrics immediately upon arrival.
They delicately portray a young woman’s aching heart as she senses a breakup approaching yet tries to convey unwavering love.
The song was featured in the MTI “music.jp” commercial and served as a support song for Fuji TV’s World Judo 2007.
Composed entirely of Kumi Koda’s vocals without any backing chorus, it centers on mid-to-low registers, making it easy to sing even for those who struggle with high notes, and it’s a track anyone who has experienced the end of a romance can relate to.
Close your eyesHirai Ken
This work sings of the grief of suddenly losing a loved one and the love that still refuses to fade.
Released in 2004, the song was written as the theme for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World” and topped the Oricon year-end singles chart.
Close your eyes and the smile, tears, and warmth of that precious person surface.
The bittersweet feelings—sensing loss in everyday life and cherishing even that pain—are delicately expressed through Ken Hirai’s rich vocals.
Singing of the resolve to live while holding onto feelings that never fade with time, this piece is sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced parting from someone dear.
User ManualNishino Kana
Kana Nishino’s 27th single, used as the theme song for the film “No Longer Heroine,” released in September 2015.
Its unique lyrics, which liken a woman’s delicate emotions to an instruction manual, became a hot topic and won the Grand Prize at the 57th Japan Record Awards.
The lyrics, where she introduces herself through the metaphor of a user manual, are both chuckle-worthy and heart-fluttering just by listening.
The song is included on her 6th album, “Just LOVE,” and has become a wedding staple.
It’s a perfect love song not only for those with a crush or in a relationship, but also for when you want to convey your feelings to your partner.
In conclusion
When we listen to the great songs of the Heisei era, memories and emotions from that time vividly come back to life. Including the yutori generation, there are many songs that leave a deep imprint on the heart across eras and generations. Music may be an irreplaceable treasure that makes the important moments in our lives shine even brighter.