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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 commercial songs. A roundup of Japanese songs from the 80s used in commercials so far (71–80)

UNIQLO LifeWear “Many Sides of Me”

Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love)Kuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love) (Full ver.)
Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love)Kuwata Keisuke
UNIQLO LifeWear Commercial “Many Versions of Me” 30 seconds

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.

UNIQLO LifeWear “Bra Top – Running Car”

Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love)Kuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love) (Full ver.)
Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love)Kuwata Keisuke
Haruka Ayase strides briskly through the city in a bra top; the commercial song is Keisuke Kuwata’s “Kanashii Kimochi JUST A MAN IN LOVE.” UNIQLO TV commercial “Life and Wear / Bra Top Running Car Edition.”

Titled “Bra Top: Running Car,” this piece promotes that it can be worn not only as an inner layer but also as a top.

Haruka Ayase gets splashed by water from a passing car, but she takes off her shirt, ties it around her waist, and appears in just the bra top.

Her upbeat remark, “Well, I’ll be fine,” leaves a strong impression.

The BGM is Keisuke Kuwata’s “Kanashii Kimochi (Just a man in love).” Despite its refreshing sound, it’s actually a heartbreak song that expresses lingering feelings for an ex.

Sentimental JourneyMatsumoto Iyo

Iyo Matsumoto Choreography Master PV “Sentimental Journey”
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.

Sankyo Regain

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.

From The Tragedy of Woman WYakushimaru Hiroko

Hiroko Yakushimaru – Woman (from “W’s Tragedy”) [from ‘Premium Acoustic Night: Toki no Tobira ~Look For A Star~’]
From The Tragedy of Woman WYakushimaru Hiroko

Released in 1984 as Hiroko Yakushimaru’s fourth single overall.

The song served as the theme for the film “W’s Tragedy” and was performed by the film’s lead actress, Hiroko Yakushimaru.

It was also used in a Shiseido “Porcelia” commercial and reached number one on the Oricon weekly chart.