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!
- A must-see for people in their 30s and 40s! A roundup of nostalgic 1990s commercial jingles
- [Nostalgic Commercials] A compilation of commercials that aired in the Showa era
- Commercial songs from the 70s. Nostalgic TV commercial jingles.
- Heartwarming nostalgic commercial jingles: a special collection of timeless hits that take you back.
- [I want to hear it again!] Songs from Suntory commercials. Popular commercial jingles
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- Western songs from the 90s featured in commercials. A roundup of CM songs.
- [Summer Tunes] A roundup of commercial songs featured in summer ads
- [Touches the heart] Bittersweet commercial songs: those famous tracks that make you tear up
- Classic nostalgic summer hits from the ’80s. A roundup of summer songs.
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
80s commercial songs. A roundup of Japanese pop songs from the 80s used in commercials (61–70)
actressIwasaki Hiromi
This commercial shows Hiromi Iwasaki driving Subaru’s new Leone, conveying its various onboard features and smooth, comfortable ride.
The closing line, “I love it because it’s gentle,” also underscores the Leone’s sense of security.
The song used to enhance the ad’s refreshing atmosphere is Iwasaki’s “Joyu” (“Actress”).
Its sound is striking for blending calmness with a light touch, and the percussion timbres add a sense of passion.
The lyrics, which portray the life of an actress, evoke an image of strength.
Tales of Happiness: Penguins’ Memory – Complete Collection of Commercials (1984–1985)
This is a compilation of Suntory CAN Beer commercials that aired between 1984 and 1985.
Alongside big-name idols like Seiko Matsuda and Shinobu Otake, the narration is done by George Tokoro—an impressive lineup.
Still, the real highlight, I think, is the poignant, adult love story played out by the adorable penguins.
These penguin characters served as the image mascots for Suntory’s commercials, and they were so popular that an animated feature film was later made: “Penguins’ Memory: A Tale of Happiness.”
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.
Windday, Taking You AlongTHE ALFEE
This commercial, themed around a Passionate Summer Madonna, powerfully yet refreshingly captures the exhilaration of spending summer in Okinawa.
By depicting various activities you can enjoy there, such as yachting and diving, it also conveys the excitement of imagining what to do in Okinawa.
The song that firmly underscores the passion and vigor of the visuals is THE ALFEE’s “Kazeyōbi, Kimi o Tsurete.” With its striking sense of speed and powerful band sound, the forward-driving music paired with a refreshing vocal evokes a distinctly positive attitude.
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.