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 (41–50)
Close your eyes and come here.BARBEE BOYS
When it comes to BARBEE BOYS’ signature works, this song stands out.
The sensual world created by the male-female twin vocals is striking.
It boldly portrays the passion and desire of romance, along with inner conflict, resonating powerfully with listeners.
Released in January 1989, the song was also used in a Shiseido commercial for the men’s hair product “TREND·Y,” reached No.
8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, and became a major hit with sales of about 168,000 copies.
Featuring an unforgettable melody and provocative lyrics, it’s a perfect track for those struggling with love or looking to reminisce about their youth.
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.
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.”
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.
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.