[Japanese Music] Masterpieces of 2000s Pop: A Collection of Hit 00’s J-POP Songs
As we find ourselves in the mid-2020s, it’s surprising to think the 2000s were already more than 20 years ago.
It’s fascinating that music and culture from that era are being rediscovered and celebrated—particularly through the so-called “Y2K” boom—led by younger generations who were born around that time.
In this article, we’re focusing on Japanese hit songs from the 2000s, gathering beloved tracks that colored the era under the broad theme of pop music.
Especially in the early 2000s, the momentum from the ’90s carried over, giving rise to massive nationwide hits.
We hope not only younger listeners but also those now in their 30s, who likely spent their youth in the 2000s, will enjoy reminiscing with these nostalgic classics!
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[Japanese Music] Classic Pop Songs of the 2000s: A Compilation of 00’s J-POP Hits (31–40)
Song of DepartureMr.Children
As a beloved national rock band, Mr.Children deliver a heartfelt medium-tempo ballad that continues to resonate with many listeners.
It’s not only about the loneliness that comes with parting, but also a warm anthem of encouragement that sings about a sure step toward the future that begins from there.
You can’t help but be moved by the image of someone holding dear memories close and striving to overcome their anxiety.
Kazutoshi Sakurai’s gentle vocals carry that message in a way that softly nestles into the listener’s heart.
Released as a single in October 2007, the song was featured as the theme for the much-talked-about film Sky of Love (Koizora) and used in an NTT East Japan commercial.
It’s a track that will surely give you a gentle push at life’s crossroads, such as graduation or a new beginning.
weeeekNEWS
NEWS is an idol group that keeps evolving as they overcome countless trials.
Their seventh single was released in November 2007 and drew attention for being written by GReeeeN.
From the playful call-and-response in the intro, the song bursts into a fast-paced rock sound that instantly lifts your spirits.
While it sings about the everyday reality from Monday to Sunday and a vague anxiety about the future, its irresistible brightness seems to laugh those worries away.
The track was also used in a “Crymson / RUSS-K” commercial and, together with the album “pacific,” reached No.
1 on the charts simultaneously.
It’s a song that revitalizes a work-weary heart and gives you the energy to face tomorrow—truly like an energy drink in musical form!
I’m Here feat. Thelma AoyamaSoulJa
This song, which sings of the bittersweet feelings of a long-distance relationship, surely tightened the chests of many who heard it in real time back then.
Amid the loneliness and frustration of not being able to meet, the pure, unwavering love for the other person comes through painfully clearly in SoulJa’s straightforward lyrics and Thelma Aoyama’s emotional vocals.
Released as a single in September 2007, it was also well known as the ending theme for TBS’s “COUNT DOWN TV.” CD sales exceeded 200,000 copies, and it’s included on SoulJa’s signature album “Spirits.” It’s the kind of classic that, when you listen to it on a night when you miss someone dear, fills you with a tight, nostalgic ache—and makes you want to duet it with a friend, pouring your feelings into every line.
Happinessarashi
From the very first notes of the intro, this song overflows with a positive vibe that clears your mind.
Released in September 2007 as the 20th single by the national idol group Arashi, it also became widely loved as the theme song for the drama “Yamada Taro Monogatari,” starring members Kazunari Ninomiya and Sho Sakurai.
The lyrics, which speak to you and encourage you to start running forward while believing in the future even in difficult times, are truly captivating! Their straightforward and bright vocals deliver a powerful message, urging you to reach out and welcome tomorrow with your own hands.
Listen to it when you’re taking a new step or want to lift your spirits, and you’re sure to get off to a fantastic start!
I wonder if it will be sunny tomorrow.Kuwata Keisuke
The sweeping ensemble of grand piano and strings stirs the heart, doesn’t it? This piece was released in May 2007 as singer-songwriter Keisuke Kuwata’s first solo single in about five years—he’s also known as the frontman of Southern All Stars.
It was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Operation Love,” so many people may remember it.
While lamenting the past, its lyrical words entrust a modest hope to the future, resonating deeply as they ride on Kuwata’s characteristically expressive melody.
When life brings you to a halt, this song gently nudges you forward and gives you a small courage to face tomorrow.
It’s a warm, timeless ballad that stands as a milestone in J-pop history.