[Wamono] A roundup of popular 1970s Japanese dance songs and disco kayō
Speaking of the 1970s, it was also an era overseas when danceable music like funky soul and disco rose to prominence, giving birth to many history-making hits.
In Japan, too, many who spent their youth in those days probably have memories of hitting the dance floor night after night to the big hits.
This time, we’re focusing on Japanese music from the ’70s that reflects the influence of soul and disco—introducing both smash hits and hidden gems that later became known as “Wamono” and gained popularity among DJs.
Young music fans interested in city pop and disco kayō, be sure to check these out!
- Revival among the youth? Japanese dance music that was a hit in the 1980s. Showa-era dance tracks.
- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese idols from the 1970s
- Also great for dementia care! Recommended dance songs for people in their 70s: Let’s dance to those classic hits
- Dance music in Japanese (J-pop) that people in their 50s used to listen to. Nostalgic classic hits.
- [Nostalgic Hits] Japanese dance music that resonates with people in their 40s.
- Dance music from Western artists that was a hit in the 1970s. World-famous and popular songs.
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces of 70s Disco Music
- [Revisited] A roundup of popular and classic Showa-era songs that are trending now [2026]
- [Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that get everyone excited. Songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke.
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- For seniors in their 80s: Stay healthy while having fun. Introducing dance songs that make you want to move!
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 1960s
[Wa-mono] A roundup of popular 1970s Japanese dance songs and disco kayō (11–20)
Love’s Indian DollRinrin Ranran
The petite and adorable twin sisters got their start when they were chosen as assistants on the talent show “Star Birth,” known as a gateway to stardom, and they debuted with this song featuring an Indian-style dance.
Their debut track became their biggest hit, and it was especially memorable as a commercial jingle with the line “Rinrin Ranran Ryuen,” promoting a Chinese restaurant.
As Easy As You Make ItSHŌGUN
A track with a snappy guitar riff and funky rhythm that’s guaranteed to get your feet moving.
Packed with an uplifting, forward-looking message, this positive anthem is like a textbook on affirming life.
Released in 1979, it’s known as a classic by SHŌGUN—famous for the theme songs of We Are Angels! and Detective Story—featuring a distinctive sound that fuses fusion and rock.
Included on the best-of album GOLDEN J-POP/THE BEST SHŌGUN, it’s a beloved song that has stood the test of time.
It’s the perfect track to listen to when you’re struggling with work or relationships.
The lyrics will encourage you to believe in yourself, and you’ll surely feel energized for tomorrow.
A BOYOhtaki Yuko
In July 1979, the debut single released by a young Yuko Otaki stood out for its synth-pop style that fused electronic and pop elements.
The lyrics were written by Tokiko Miura, with composition and arrangement by Tsugutoshi Goto, firmly capturing the trend of the time when synth-pop was on the rise.
The song’s lyrics depict pure youthful romance, impressively expressing a gentle longing from a woman’s perspective who nostalgically reflects on a past love—wondering, “What if we had met in our boyhood days?” The track is also included on the simultaneously released album Million Kiss, which showcases a refined pop sound.
I just can’t stopYamamoto Rinda
There was quite a shock when the woman who had been singing in a sweet voice, “Komacchau na~,” suddenly reappeared in a belly-baring outfit, shaking her hips and dancing like crazy, and then finished with a gruff, intimidating “Mo dōnimo tomaranai” as part of her image makeover.
Thanks to the makeover, the song became a huge hit, and her later track “Neraiuchi” is still used today as a cheering song, including at high school baseball games.
Woman of FlameYumi Kaoru
Kaoru Yumi, who was a top dancer with the Nishino Ballet Company.
For those born in the Heisei era, her bath scenes as Kagerō Ogin in Mito Kōmon may be especially memorable.
Despite her petite frame, she had an outstanding figure, and her bold stage costumes when she sang “Honō no Onna” were also very cool.
Youth Running Wildbyūti pea
The late-70s boom owed a lot to the incredible popularity of these two women’s pro wrestlers.
For some reason, their style of singing in the ring before matches felt novel, and this song, which sold 800,000 copies, has a dance that comes off a bit amateurish.
But those simple steps were also part of the pair’s charm.
[Wa-mono] A Collection of Popular 1970s Japanese Dance Songs and Disco Kayō (21–30)
A Tangerine-Colored Lovezūtrobi
These days, the only member you ever see is Takao Yamada handing out cushions on Shoten, but back then they were a male idol group with a different vibe from the Johnny’s style.
They weren’t particularly outstanding at singing or dancing, but they were all great talkers and unpretentious, so they were in constant demand on variety shows.
Mikan-iro no Koi, with its handclaps and danceable groove, is Zu Torubi’s signature song.