We’re back with this week’s edition of Oricon Flashback. This is where we look back on what topped Oricon this week 5, 10, 15, and 20 years ago. Think of it as a way to reminisce and learn about the past of Japanese music.

3/17/97

Album:

Mr.Children – BOLERO (first week sales: 1,734,880)

Single:

B’z – FIREBALL (first week sales: 426,820)

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3/18/02

Album:

MISIA – MISIA GREATEST HITS (second week sales: 561,190 / second consecutive week at #1)

Single:

Dragon Ash – Fantasista (first week sales: 178,020)

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3/19/07

Album:

EXILE – EXILE EVOLUTION (first week sales: 300,323)

Single:

Utada Hikaru – Flavor Of Life (second week sales: 140,479 / second consecutive week at #1)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ta0vEnki9E

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3/17/12

Album:

Ikimonogakari – NEWTRAL (second week sales: 192,877 / second consecutive week at #1)

Single:

Arashi – Wild at Heart (first week sales: 550,014)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ink4T2ZoTXA

RIAJ Digital Track Chart:

Mr.Children – Inori ~Namida No Kidou

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3J8LBnYq