A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 1980s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
Picking out “breakup songs” from among the classic hits of the ’80s!
When it comes to breakup songs, that contrast between a wistful melody and lyrics still burning with uncooled passion really hits home, doesn’t it?
The tracks we’re introducing today are all packed with the powerful feeling of “I still love you” amid the sadness—songs that’ll bring you to tears.
If you’re thinking, “I want to know ’80s breakup songs,” or “I want to hear the hit songs of my youth again,” be sure to check these out.
They may be from the ’80s, but true classics move us regardless of the era.
If you’re younger, take this chance to give them a listen!
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Breakup songs that were hits in the 1980s. Classic and popular Japanese songs (1–10)
A Tearful RequestChekkāzu
The Checkers, a band formed around the Fujii brothers Fumiya and Naoyuki, also defined an era in Japan’s pop music scene.
Their evolution—from idol-like youths to mature artists as they aged—might itself be considered a legacy of the Showa entertainment world.
The lyrics, which feel like a breeze requesting a love one still can’t let go of, were pop and innovative for their time.
Even after heartbreak, you could stay upbeat thanks to The Checkers’ joyful performances.
With lyrics by Masao Urino and composition by Hiroaki Serizawa—an unbeatable duo—this is a breakup song that hasn’t lost its luster even today!
atonementTeresa Ten
In a time when there were far fewer foreign entertainers, Teresa Teng flew tirelessly across Asia—Japan, Thailand, Malaysia—singing about women’s earnest love.
This song, too, portrays a woman who gracefully steps away from a relationship, saying, “You were kind; the one at fault is me.” Despite being a heartbreak song, Teresa Teng’s dignified, commanding delivery evoked a strong woman who wouldn’t be defeated by lingering attachment.
Though she left this world to much sorrow, I believe her songs will be cherished forever.
It’s a piece I want to listen to alone, slowly, even as tears fall.
Rainy BlueTokunaga Hideaki
Released in 1986 and covered by many artists over the years, Hideaki Tokunaga’s “Rainy Blue” captivates with an intro that seems to capture the sound of rainfall.
It’s a poignant ballad that overlays rainy scenery with a love that has ended, and its lyrics—hinting that the feelings still remain—strike the heart.
Tokunaga’s beautiful voice, gently singing of sorrow, brings tears to the eyes.
It’s a timeless love song that tenderly stays close to the hearts of those who have experienced heartbreak.
Ruby RingTerao Akira
Akira Terao’s hit song “Ruby no Yubiwa” (Ruby Ring), released in 1981.
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call it one of the defining hits of the 1980s.
Its sales and chart performance were remarkable: it held the No.
1 spot on the weekly Oricon charts for 10 consecutive weeks and topped the popular TV show “The Best Ten” for 12 straight weeks.
On December 31, its tremendous success was recognized with the Japan Record Award.
It’s a work that epitomizes the melody and mood of the ’80s.
Cheer up!Takeuchi Mariya
Mariya Takeuchi’s classic song “Genki wo Dashite” (“Cheer Up”).
It’s also known as a song by Hiroko Yakushimaru.
Released in February 1984, it was composed after seeing singer-songwriter Carly Simon saddened by her divorce from James Taylor, with the intention of encouraging her.
A song dedicated to cheering on an individual is quite rare, isn’t it? It became a major hit, and in surveys it ranked number one among Mariya Takeuchi’s signature songs.