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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Revival among the youth? Japanese dance music hits from the 1980s: Showa-era dance tracks (31–40)
VenusNagayama Yōko
A big hit by Yoko Nagayama, who has firmly established herself as an enka singer.
Just hearing the sha-la-la-lan…
sound in the intro makes you excited, doesn’t it? The original was a song by the Dutch rock group Shocking Blue, which Bananarama covered and turned into a huge hit.
It’s still a staple dance track at discos.
A good song is embraced in any era.
Heartbreak Sun Tribesutābō
Starbow was a three-woman idol group that was active for only a short period of two years.
Their debut song, Heartbreak Taiyozoku, was a work by a very luxurious duo: lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Haruomi Hosono.
The music video for this piece really makes you think, “This is a song, style, and dance that could only come from that era.”
MasqueradeShonentai
Beginning with an innovative 5/4-time intro, this song portrays the true emotions lurking behind human relationships through the scene of a masquerade ball.
The repeated English phrases give it a powerful drive that awakens inner passion.
Released in December 1985, it marked the group’s first appearance at the 37th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen the following year.
The staging on the TV program “The Best Ten” also drew attention, proving the high caliber of the performance.
It’s a track distinguished by Shonentai’s sharp dance and acrobatic moves.
Ah, heartlessAn Ruisu
This song expresses a passionate, heartrending love story set to a powerful rock sound.
Released as a single in April 1986, it features lyrics by Reiko Yukawa and composition by NOBODY.
Considered the culmination of Ann Lewis’s kayō-rock style, it has captivated fans across generations with the artist’s powerful vocals.
In July 2006, it returned to the spotlight as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Thursday drama “Time of Distrust: Woman Wars.” The fusion of hard-hitting sound and richly emotive melody is striking, and its irresistibly danceable beat makes you tap along.
FriendsRebekka
This song features an uptempo dance-rock sound with heavy use of synthesizers and the captivating, transparent vocals of NOKKO.
Written based on bittersweet heartbreak experienced in adolescence, it boasts a distinctive, dynamic melody that makes it highly addictive.
Released as a single in 1985, it was used as the ending theme for the Nippon TV drama “Half Potato na Oretachi,” reaching No.
3 on the Oricon weekly chart.
In the late 1990s, a new remix version was produced as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Lipstick,” winning overwhelming support from a younger generation.
It’s perfect for nighttime drives or moments when you want to reminisce about youthful memories, and its positive message, which blows away feelings of heartache, is deeply moving.
Revival among the youth? Japanese dance music hits from the 1980s. Showa-era dance tracks (41–50)
Flashy!!!Nagayama Miho
This track layers Miho Nakayama’s powerful vocals over an uptempo dance tune woven from synthesizers and drum machines.
Released as a single in July 1987, it became a hit, peaking at No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
With lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, music by Tsugutoshi Goto, and arrangement by Motoki Funayama, it brilliantly fuses ’80s synth-pop with glamorous dance music.
Although it had no commercial tie-ins, its captivating performance and vibrant sound won over many fans.
Featuring an energetic melody and positive lyrics, it’s perfect for dance parties or driving.
It’s a great pick both for those who spent their youth in the ’80s and for listeners who want to enjoy a fresh take on a retro sound.
You were mineKubota Toshinobu
This is a quintessential ’80s disco track featuring Toshinobu Kubota’s smooth, memorable vocals.
Though it’s a bittersweet love song, its funky rhythm and sophisticated arrangement strike a perfect balance.
Released in February 1988, the song drew major attention as the theme for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.
drama “Kimi no Hitomi wo Taiho Suru!” It was also included on the album “the BADDEST,” and became a big hit, reaching No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
Incorporating elements of R&B, soul, and funk, the track’s beat makes you want to move—danceable and undeniably cool.
It’s recommended for those who want to relive nostalgic youth memories or discover the allure of ’80s music.