Popular Nostalgic Songs: J-Pop Ranking [1990s Japanese Music Ranking]
We present the latest Top 100 ranking of classic Japanese pop songs all at once, ordered by most views! We’ve picked out nostalgic hits from the 1990s.
Listening again, you’ll notice many songs are still enjoying a revival today.
Be sure to check them out.
The playlist is updated weekly.
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Popular Nostalgic Songs: J-Pop Ranking [1990s Japanese Music Ranking] (31–40)
Time goes byEvery Little Thing36rank/position
It’s one of the iconic J-POP masterpieces of the ’90s! Used as the theme song for the drama “Amai Kekkon” (Sweet Marriage), it became a track that remains in many people’s hearts.
Kaori Mochida of Every Little Thing delivers a strikingly clear, translucent vocal, and the lyrics about a bittersweet love really resonate.
Released in February 1998, it became a massive hit, reaching No.
2 on the Oricon charts.
Since then, it has continued to be loved as one of their signature songs, included on best-of albums and commemorative live recordings.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or parting, or who wants to feel a deep bond with someone special.
Someday Merry ChristmasB’z37rank/position
Despite being legends who have released numerous hit numbers, B’z continue to lead the Japanese rock scene from the front lines.
This track, included on the Christmas-themed concept mini-album “FRIENDS,” has become a staple Christmas song loved by a wide range of listeners, even though it was never released as a single.
Its story of projecting memories of a former lover onto people passing by on the street is likely to resonate especially with those fresh from a breakup.
Featuring acoustic guitar, the Christmas-tinged ensemble makes it a tried-and-true heartbreak song that evokes a sentimental mood.
Endless JourneyMr.Children38rank/position
Mr.Children is a four-member rock band that has produced numerous million-selling singles and albums and continues to lead the J-pop scene today.
Their 15th single, “Owarinaki Tabi,” was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Naguru Onna” and became a major hit.
The lyrics, which sing of the value of keeping your eyes fixed forward while holding hope for the future, give courage to those who are pursuing their dreams while grappling with hardship.
With its lyrical melody that stirs the heart, it’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you’re on the verge of losing heart.
I just feel like crying.Nagayama Miho39rank/position
This is the 28th single by Miho Nakayama—affectionately known as “Miporin”—released in February 1994.
Written specifically as the theme song for the TBS drama “If Wishes Could Come True,” it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
With total sales of approximately 1.048 million copies, it became her first million-selling single under her solo name.
The lyrics, which portray the protagonist’s wavering emotions as she watches her friends marry one after another and turns to face her own life, resonated with many listeners.
Featuring a calm arrangement centered on piano and strings, and a superb structure that moves from a conversational A-melody into an outpouring of emotion in the chorus, it stands as a quintessential 1990s J-pop ballad.
Don’t give upZARD40rank/position
ZARD, a music unit that was at the forefront of the Being label artists who exploded in popularity in the 1990s, achieved massive success with their 6th single, “Makenaide” (“Don’t Give Up”).
The song was used as the theme for the TV drama “Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!” and became a million seller.
Its empowering lyrics and catchy melody have encouraged many people to find themselves humming it during tough times.
It’s also well-known for playing during the climax of Nippon TV’s charity program “24-Hour Television” marathon—a pop tune that gives you that extra push to take one more step.
Popular Nostalgic J-Pop Rankings [1990s Japanese Music Rankings] (41–50)
I want to hug you.Mr.Children41rank/position
This song is beloved as one of Mr.Children’s signature ballads.
It was created for a friend’s wedding, and its lyrics unfold from the perspective of the groom, who pledges eternal love.
With its warm melody and straightforward devotion to a loved one, it’s a track that truly moves the heart.
Released as a single in December 1992, it encapsulates the charm of early Mr.Children.
Its pure expressions of love have resonated with many listeners, making it a popular wedding song as well.
Listen to it on a cold winter night, and it’s sure to warm your heart.
The End of the WorldTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT42rank/position
When it comes to bands that drove the rock scene of the 1990s, THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT is the first that comes to mind.
Their 1996 release Sekai no Owari (The End of the World) is a track whose straightforward band sound really hits home.
The lyrics penned by vocalist Yusuke Chiba have a certain philosophical edge, and his cool, gravelly voice leaves a strong impression.
Their appearance performing in mod suits is striking, and they convey the raw appeal of the instruments themselves.
Not only their songs, but also their look and performance style influenced later generations of band musicians—lend an ear to their rock.
