[80s Japanese Music] Popular Christmas songs: from hit tracks to hidden gems!

Last Single X’masHarayuko

Last Single X’mas

This is a quintessential 80s ballad that sings of Christmas memories filled with nostalgia and bittersweet longing.

Haru Yuko’s gentle, warm vocals tenderly envelop the lingering feelings for a love that has passed.

Included on the album “Harayuko ga Kataru Hitotoki,” released in April 1981, the song also had its instrumental version used as an insert track in the film “Aiko 16-sai,” beautifully capturing the emotional tone of a coming-of-age movie.

With lyrics penned by Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars, it deftly portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they look back on Christmases from their youth.

When the holiday season makes you want to reminisce about memories with a loved one, be sure to give it a listen.

X’ mas in the BlueYamamoto Emi

Emi Yamamoto - X’mas in the Blue (Christmas in the Blue)

When you hear the name “Hidemi Yamamoto,” did you imagine a woman? He’s actually a male singer who had hits in the ’80s.

This song, “X’mas in the Blue,” was released in 1987 as his third single.

It features that distinctly ’80s straight 8-beat, and his gentle vocals evoke the era—listening again brings back memories from those days.

It’s not just for couples; if you listen with your spouse or family, it might spark some lively conversation.

Highly recommended.

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Ozaki Shunji

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Christmas weddingSugi Masamichi & The Dreamers

Christmas Wedding / Mari Sugimori & The Dreamers

Among the many Christmas songs, the 1980s produced masterpieces with a special presence.

One of the most beloved across generations of music fans is “Christmas no Wedding” (“Christmas Wedding”).

The song was released in 1989 by Masamichi Sugi and The Dreamers.

Its sweet vocals make it feel as if the tender whispers of lovers at Christmastime have been set to music.

Whether you listen alone or with someone special, it’s a track you can truly enjoy from the heart.

If you want to experience the charm of 80s Japanese pop, be sure to enjoy “Christmas no Wedding,” a song that conveys the warmth of that era!

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miyabi

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I Wish It Could Be Christmas EverydaySuzuki Saeko

Saeko Suzuki — I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday

There are countless songs themed around Christmas, but Saeko Suzuki’s piece is a gem that lets you fully savor the scent of ’80s synth-pop.

Included on her debut album “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday,” released in July 1983, the track was produced by Keiichi Suzuki of Moonriders.

It captures the magical atmosphere of Christmas with a distinctive synthesizer sound, and together with her gentle vocals, it creates a pleasing listening experience.

The lyrics weave in not only festive joy but also complex emotions like loneliness and wistfulness, making it a Christmas song that adults can truly appreciate.

Blue ChristmasIijima Mari

Blue Christmas (2020 Remaster)

This song seeps into the heart with Mari Iijima’s warm vocals and a melody that captures the poignancy of a winter night.

Centered on heartbreak and loneliness, it depicts memories of a past romance and lingering attachment, beautifully conveying the solitude felt during the special Christmas season.

Released in November 1988, the piece was written and composed by Iijima herself, with arrangements by an American producer.

Its simple, melancholic arrangement and ballad-like style perfectly evoke the atmosphere of a winter evening.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to on a quiet Christmas night while thinking of someone dear.