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)
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.
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.
First loveMurashita Kōzō
Kozo Murashita, a singer-songwriter who produced numerous hit songs—his works are still covered by many artists today.
“Hatsukoi” (First Love) is one of his signature hits, released in February 1983.
Even at the time of its release, Murashita’s lung illness had already worsened, and he was unable to appear on the TV program “The Best Ten,” but the song went on to enjoy a six-week-long run as a hit.
For fans, it’s surely a memorable track.
Breakup songs that were hits in the 1980s. Masterpieces and popular Japanese songs (11–20).
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.
Goodbyeofukōsu
Of course, Off Course was a group effort with all the members, but even so, it’s hard not to feel that Kazumasa Oda’s talent pulled the whole band forward.
It may sound clichéd when put into words, but Oda’s clear, translucent voice is truly second to none.
I think that quality shines to the fullest in this song, “Sayonara.” The lyrics—about a love between two people, once thought eternal, coming to an end—carry a slightly old-fashioned hue.
You can even sense that distinctly Showa-era melancholy from the days when the music of a new generation was still called “new music.” It’s a song I’d like those who want to immerse themselves in the tears of parting to hear.
Eyes Are DiamondMatsuda Seiko
Seiko Matsuda’s “Hitomi wa Diamond” portrays someone trying to stay strong even at the moment of parting with a lover.
Released in 1983 as a double A-side with “Aoi Photograph,” the song features lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto, music by Yumi Matsutoya under the pen name Kyohei Kureta, and arrangement by Masataka Matsutoya.
Though the protagonist has been betrayed and is filled with sorrow, the song depicts her wiping away tears of sadness while holding on to the many wonderful memories they shared.
It’s a song that supports those who wish to be strong and show no tears—no matter what kind of breakup they face.
Under the Big Onion ~ Distant Feelingsbakufū suranpu
This is the 15th single by the rock band Bakufu Slump, who became pioneers of youth rock thanks to the massive success of “Runner,” released in 1988.
It’s a remake of a track from their 1985 second album, “Shiawase,” and this song likely led more people to refer to the Nippon Budokan as “the Big Onion.” With lyrics that vividly paint scenes, a melody that seems to express a mix of anticipation and heartache, and exquisitely drawn psychology and atmosphere that bring listeners to tears, it stands as a gem of a breakup song.
