In recent years, thanks to the rise of subscriptions and social media, we’ve seen not only the latest tracks but also songs from the Showa and Heisei eras make a comeback as revival hits.
As we’re reminded that a great song remains great no matter the era, it also feels like a new movement in the J-POP scene that dance and vocal videos are being created through the sensibilities of younger generations.
This time, we’ll introduce standout hits from the 2000s that went viral on TikTok—especially a space where younger people share and discover information.
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
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- New-era masterpieces meet culture! Reiwa-era tracks that went viral on TikTok
- Nostalgic even though it’s recent? Iconic 2010s songs that went viral on TikTok
- Nostalgic yet new! Songs that made a comeback and became revival hits on TikTok
- Ride the trend! Songs released in the 2020s that went viral on TikTok
- A Must-See for the Heisei Generation: Nostalgic Songs That Were Popular in the Heisei Era
- Heisei-era hit songs gaining popularity on TikTok
- Including global hits! 80s songs popular on TikTok
- Japanese dance hits from the 2000s. Songs that make you want to dance on TikTok.
- Showa-era songs that went viral on TikTok / revival hit songs
- Heisei Song Collection: Iconic Hits That Colored the ’90s and 2000s
- [Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
Nothing but timeless hits that defined an era! The most popular 2000s classics on TikTok (1–10)
tropical nightRIP SLYME
A summer tune by RIP SLYME released in July 2007.
The lyrics, which depict passionate romance and a party vibe, express a love that blazes along with the heat of tropical nights.
Characterized by energetic beats and danceable rhythms, the track evokes the club scene.
It is also included on the album “FUNFAIR” and is a perfect song to amp up summer nights.
In 2013, a remix version by Yasutaka Nakata was produced.
Packed with RIP SLYME’s playful spirit and humor, this track is ideal for listening to while driving on hot summer nights.
Its liberating sound is sure to lift your mood.
As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE
A DREAMS COME TRUE song distinguished by lyrics that resonate with the heart and a dramatic melody.
Released in February 2005 as their 35th single, it was written as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Emergency Room 24 Hours” (Season 3).
Miwa Yoshida’s powerful vocals and Masato Nakamura’s moving arrangement have made it a beloved classic that leaves a deep impression on listeners.
Centered on the strength to face setbacks and hardships, and the importance of continuing to challenge oneself without giving up, this piece gently encourages anyone who wants to keep looking forward and gives them courage.
MiracleGReeeeN
This is the seventh single by GReeeeN, a four-member male vocal group that enjoys immense popularity despite keeping their appearances private.
Known as the theme song for the TV drama ROOKIES, it also topped the Oricon annual karaoke rankings.
Its arrangement—progressing with beautiful harmonies and cool rap—and its straightforward message are truly moving.
Released in May 2008, the track became the fastest ever “chaku-uta full” to surpass one million downloads, earning a Guinness World Record.
It’s a staple 2000s karaoke song that’s fun to divide into parts and sing with friends.
Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterHilcrhyme
A signature song by Hilcrhyme that portrays love through the changing seasons.
Released in September 2009, this track captured many hearts with its unique style that fuses hip-hop and J-pop.
It has been widely influential, featured as the ending theme for numerous TV shows and even serving as the motif for mobile phone novels.
Skillful word choices blend seamlessly with a catchy melody to express a love that deepens with the shifting seasons.
The lyrics, interwoven with images of Japan’s seasonal landscapes, leave a warm afterglow in the listener’s heart.
It’s the perfect song for those who want to enjoy the seasons with their partner.
Sayonara, baby.Kato Miria
This song portrays the bittersweet frustration of love and was released in September 2008 as Miliyah Kato’s 13th single.
It’s a four-on-the-floor number that incorporates a lovers’ conversation into the chorus, themed around a goodbye that can only be said by parting.
The lyrics capture the struggle between wanting to believe in love and doubting whether that love is genuine, resonating strongly with many young female listeners.
In November 2019, a new version featuring SKY-HI was released as a digital single, adding a male-perspective rap that brought fresh appeal.
It’s a track for anyone who feels the end of a relationship approaching yet can’t bring themselves to say goodbye.
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo
Released in February 2004, this is Yo Hitoto’s fifth single.
At first glance it seems like a love song with a gentle melody and warm lyrics, but in fact it was born from a prayer for peace inspired by the 2001 September 11 attacks in the United States.
In addition to being used as the theme song for the TV drama “Tuesday Suspense Theater,” it was also chosen as the theme song for a film of the same title in 2010.
It’s known as one of the most-sung karaoke songs of the Heisei era and a timeless classic loved across generations.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you want to convey your feelings to someone special, such as at weddings or graduation ceremonies.
cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai
From cute to bittersweet numbers, singer-songwriter Ai Otsuka—renowned for her wide expressive range—has produced numerous classic songs, and this is one of her signature works.
Chosen as the opening theme for the music show “COUNT DOWN TV” and the ending theme for the variety show “Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!”, the song, released in December 2003 with its pop melody and arrangement, became a major talking point.
Its lyrics about pure love and its bright tone captured many hearts.
The built-in call-and-response moments make it perfect for livening up karaoke.
It’s a quintessential 2000s karaoke anthem that you just can’t help but sing along to when someone starts it.