80s commercial songs. A roundup of Japanese songs from the 80s that have been used in commercials.
In this article, we’ll be introducing, all at once, the songs that were used in commercials aired in the 1980s, as well as 80s tracks that have been featured in commercials over the years!
Speaking of 80s music, a wide variety of artists—bands, female idols, singer-songwriters—burst onto the scene, and all of them gained tremendous popularity.
Countless songs were used in commercials, and many timeless classics that are still loved today were born during this era.
We’ve picked a wide range, from staple tunes you still hear often to hidden gems you might not have heard in a while, so please take this opportunity to listen closely and enjoy.
- 80s Western pop hits featured in commercials. A roundup of nostalgic CM songs.
- Catchy Showa-era commercial jingles. Introducing famous songs recently featured in commercials, too!
- [Nostalgic Commercials] A compilation of commercials that aired in the Showa era
- Heartwarming nostalgic commercial jingles: a special collection of timeless hits that take you back.
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- Western songs from the 90s featured in commercials. A roundup of CM songs.
- A must-see for people in their 30s and 40s! A roundup of nostalgic 1990s commercial jingles
- [Touches the heart] Bittersweet commercial songs: those famous tracks that make you tear up
- Commercial songs from the 70s. Nostalgic TV commercial jingles.
- [I want to hear it again!] Songs from Suntory commercials. Popular commercial jingles
- Classic nostalgic summer hits from the ’80s. A roundup of summer songs.
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- Legendary Western rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s
80s commercial songs. A roundup of Japanese songs from the 80s used in commercials so far (71–80)
Vixen on the RunBARBEE BOYS
This is a classic duet featuring male and female twin vocals that captures the allure of a bewitching, mysterious woman.
The urban tone of the soprano sax and the sophisticated arrangement leave a strong impression, lightly portraying the give-and-take between a man and a woman.
Released in April 1987 as BARBEE BOYS’ seventh single and used as the image song for Asahi Beverages’ Mitsuya Fruits, this track is highly recommended for those who want to feel the nuances of romance and the atmosphere of the city at night.
Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love)Kuwata Keisuke
It depicts a day in the life of Haruka Ayase, introducing the bralettes she wears in each scene.
From relaxing at home and having breakfast, to an important work moment, to fun after-work time—its message that every version of yourself in each scene is still wholly you really hits home.
The BGM features Keisuke Kuwata’s “Kanashii Kimochi (Just a man in love),” released in 1987 as his solo debut.
The song delicately portrays a man who can’t forget the woman he parted ways with.
Dance, fish.Yamashita Tatsuro
This commercial conveys the excitement of traveling and spending time in Okinawa through images of Yuriko Ishida enjoying the Okinawan sea.
With sunny skies, crystal-clear water, and her radiant smile layered over it all, it vividly and refreshingly portrays the fun of leisure and sports.
The song that further highlights the gentle exhilaration expressed in these visuals is Tatsuro Yamashita’s “Odoroyo, Fish” (“Let’s Dance, Fish”).
Its light rhythm paired with a soft, memorable melody, and the buoyant layering of sounds, all effectively communicate a sense of joy.
Sentimental JourneyMatsumoto Iyo
It was released in 1981 as Iyo Matsumoto’s debut single.
The song was used in a commercial for Lotte’s Ghana Chocolate and, despite being her debut, became her biggest hit.
At the 13th Japan Kayō Awards, she won the Broadcast Music Newcomer Award, and the following year, at the 24th Japan Record Awards in 1982, she also received the Newcomer Award.
Startled and GoodTahara Toshihiko
“Hatsushite! Good” is a single by Toshihiko Tahara released in September 1980.
It topped the Oricon charts for consecutive weeks and won the Best New Artist Award at the 22nd Japan Record Awards.
It was used as a commercial song for Glico.
A Sign of CourageUshiwakamaru Saburota
The most famous Regain commercial features Saburota Ushiwakamaru (Saburo Tokito) singing “Yūki no Shirushi” (“A Sign of Courage”).
Released in November 1989, it reached No.
2 on the Oricon charts.
It’s a fun song, but it might not quite fit the current climate, with the economy not doing so well.
randoseru (Japanese elementary school backpack)JUN SKY WALKER(S)
This is a commercial where members of JUN SKY WALKER(S) powerfully promote Panasonic’s batteries, which were marketed specifically for music.
The content layers performance scenes with colorful visuals, conveying energy and strength in a fun way.
The song featured in the CM is JUN SKY WALKER(S)’ “Randoseru,” included on their 1989 album “Aruite Ikou.” It’s about carrying dreams forward into the future, delivering a straightforward message of positivity and strength through a powerful band sound.