Revival among the youth? Japanese dance music that was a hit in the 1980s. Showa-era dance tracks.
Due to American influence, in the 1980s Japan also saw dance music that heavily used drum machines and synthesizers become popular as it was incorporated into pop and other genres.
Behind the scenes, a wealth of superb, funky disco tracks were produced in large numbers, many of which remain timeless classics still talked about today.
In this era of retro revival, why not listen to the dance music that was in vogue in the ’80s?
For those who spent their youth back then, it will sound nostalgic; for generations who didn’t experience the era, it will sound fresh and new!
In this article, we’ve selected recommended dance tracks from that time.
Enjoy!
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- [Wamono] A roundup of popular 1970s Japanese dance songs and disco kayō
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- Dance music in Japanese (J-pop) that people in their 50s used to listen to. Nostalgic classic hits.
- For seniors in their 80s: Stay healthy while having fun. Introducing dance songs that make you want to move!
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco
- [Nostalgic Hits] Japanese dance music that resonates with people in their 40s.
- Including global hits! 80s songs popular on TikTok
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- Guaranteed to make you want to dance! Dance tracks that defined the Heisei era
- Dance music that was popular among Gen Z. A song that went viral.
- Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Ranking]
- Nostalgic yet fresh!? Classic masterpieces of Japanese rock from the 1970s and 1980s
Revival among the youth? Japanese dance music hits from the 1980s. Showa-era dance tracks (41–50)
Love is Do!Tahara Toshihiko
Among Toshihiko Tahara’s songs from the early ’80s, this might be the one whose dancing made the biggest impact.
He performs with a dance group called Japanese in the back, and the sharpness—including theirs—is excellent.
In this song, there’s also one member in charge of a puppet, which became quite a talking point.
NEVERMIE
A single released in 1984 by MIE, formerly of Pink Lady (now styled as Mii, written as 未唯mie).
The original song is a track of the same title by the Australian band Moving Pictures, which was used in the film Footloose.
It was also used as the theme song for the TV drama Delinquent Girl Called.
In conclusion
We’ve introduced a lot of Japanese dance music hits from the ’80s up to this point.
I bet there were a few songs you recognized, right? I’d be thrilled if you’ve discovered some new favorites.
The ’80s were truly a treasure trove of great music.
Even the idol songs felt high in quality when they were hits.
And that danceable Eurobeat that was popular in the ’80s is so addictive, isn’t it? Be sure to take this opportunity to give them a listen.