Idols have always been widely popular, from young people to adults.
Here, we’re showcasing a roundup of debut songs from nostalgic idols who debuted in the 1970s! For those who actually lived through the ’70s, this will feel very nostalgic, and for others it might even feel fresh and new.
Be sure to check them out!
- A roundup of debut songs by Japanese female artists from the 1970s
- The debut song of a beloved national idol from days gone by. Relive that emotion once more.
- Debut songs by Japanese male artists from the 1970s
- Nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1970s: the golden age of idols and kayōkyoku (Japanese pop songs)
- Commercial songs from the 70s. Nostalgic TV commercial jingles.
- Songs by Showa-era idols that you’ll want to listen to now, in the Reiwa era!
- Debut song of a 1970s idol
- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- Debut songs by female artists from the 1980s
- Debut song of an enka singer
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese idols from the 1970s
- [1980s] Debut Songs and Classics by Japanese All-Girl Bands
- Heart-touching, tear-jerking masterpieces from the Showa era
Debut Songs of 1970s Idols (1–10)
Hide-and-seekIshikawa Sayuri
This is the memorable debut single released in 1973 by Sayuri Ishikawa, who would go on to become a leading figure in the enka world.
She was only 15 when the song came out! Quite different from the powerful image of “Tsugaru Strait – Winter Scene,” her charming, idol-like vocals here feel wonderfully fresh.
The nostalgic melody, reminiscent of a children’s song, pairs perfectly with lyrics that evoke faint memories of playing in back alleys at dusk.
It might even be overlaying the bittersweet feelings of first love for someone special with a game of hide-and-seek in search of “that child” who can no longer be found.
A sentimental track that lets you glimpse the precious starting point of a great singer.
duetIwasaki Hiromi
Hiromi Iwasaki’s debut song, with a singing ability worthy of being called a Showa-era songstress, is absolutely mesmerizing.
You can feel how deeply she loves the song; her voice is so captivating it makes you think she truly loves singing.
She went on to have many more hits and well-known songs afterward.
Right face!Ishikawa Hitomi
Hitomi Ishikawa, who became famous with the smash hit “Machibuse,” has been very active as an artist.
Her singing voice has a unique aura and charm unlike any other, which likely made it a perfect match for the song “Machibuse.” Her debut track is a quintessential idol song brimming with freshness.
The budding of loveKousaka Miyuki
With her small-animal-like cuteness, Miyuki Kosaka became a little-sister figure to men everywhere.
She also had strong vocal ability, and her debut single drew attention and made waves.
She went on to thrive on variety shows as well, and her talent made her highly sought after across many programs.
At the coffee shopabe shizue
Shizue Abe made her debut with a song that left an impression for its beautiful vocals and gave her a pure, delicate image.
Many of her fans were men who seemed to want to support her—perhaps they even felt like they were her boyfriend.
That “everyone’s girlfriend” vibe may have been one of her key appeals.
I’m crazy about you.kyandīzu
Candies were one of the legendary Japanese idols born in the Showa era.
They were truly bright and cheerful, and many fans surely felt energized just by seeing them.
They also thrived on variety shows, and their distinct personalities drew attention not only from fans but from people all across Japan.
Sunflower GirlItō Sakiko
The reason I want to spotlight Sakiko Ito as an idol who represents the Showa era is the excellence of her debut song.
Both the lyrics and the melody make me feel it’s truly a song from the golden days of Showa.
Ms.
Ito is still active as a singer today, and this song is a uniquely moving work unlike any other.