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. Masterpieces and popular Japanese songs (11–20).
Love is overŌyō Fifi
Love Is Over, released in 1979, is still heard on TV commercials today.
It’s not quite “a tiger leaves its skin when it dies,” but it reminds me that Faye Ouyang herself once said, “Even if I die, this song will remain.” I think its lyrics—devotedly expressing, “Though our love has certainly ended, I will go on thinking of you”—have resonated for so long.
Even after heartbreak, the feeling is eternal.
It’s a song I highly recommend as an eternal heartbreak classic.
The version covered by Takajin Yashiki also has a great, masculine charm and is wonderfully done!
And then I’m at a lossŌsawa Yoshiyuki
This is a single cut from the album “CONFUSION.” It became a huge hit after being featured in a Nissin Cup Noodles commercial.
The distinctive touch of lyricist Natsuo Giniro is fully showcased, and even the somewhat long, prose-like title “And Then I Was at a Loss” was unusual for the time.
The lyrics, like a poem, reflect on a joyful romance while gazing at a lover who is growing distant.
The understated production, rather than being flashy, adds depth to the song.
It’s the kind of track that makes you want to fall in love again.
Woman from “W no Higeki”Yakushimaru Hiroko
Back when Kadokawa films were at their peak, Hiroko Yakushimaru was also a truly special presence.
Any show she appeared on would pull in high ratings.
She was very active as a singer too, with many hits like “Sailor Suit and Machine Gun.” This song, “Woman (from ‘W’s Tragedy’),” is unusually dark for an idol track.
The lyrics press forward with an almost unsettling assertiveness—“I love you, even if you don’t love me…” I’m sure some people who’ve had their hearts broken can relate.
It’s a perfect song for those who want to immerse themselves in the sorrow of heartbreak.
Embraced by the wintry windKoizumi Kyoko
If we’re talking about the quintessential song that keeps you company through a one-sided love in winter during the 1980s, it has to be this one.
Released in 1986 by Kyoko Koizumi—affectionately known as Kyon-Kyon, and also active as an actress—“Kogarashi ni Dakarete.” Written and composed by Toshihiko Takamizawa of THE ALFEE, it’s a ballad with a strikingly glittering mood.
The contrast between the pain of heartbreak and the fiercely burning emotions, set against the whiteness of winter, is truly gripping.
Her understated vocals are wonderful too.
It’s a song that stays by your side through an unforgettable love.
Deceived by a guy like HiroshiTakada Mizue
Sonna Hiroshi ni Damasarete (Fooled by That Hiroshi), sung by Mizue Takada, was released in 1983.
The song was written and composed by Keisuke Kuwata, and Southern All Stars also released their own version.
On the same day Takada released her single, the band Juicy Fruits put out their version as well.
Takada’s rendition peaked at No.
6 on the Oricon charts and sold over 300,000 copies.
It’s a nostalgic tune for those who came of age in the ’80s, with lyrics that evoke the era’s love life and trendy styles.
Goodbye PatternItō Toshihiro
This singer-songwriter has an unusual background: he wrote this song while working as a Japanese National Railways employee, and it became a massive hit after winning the Grand Prix at the Yamaha Popular Song Contest.
If you’re from the generation that experienced that era in real time, you’ve probably heard this song.
Its calm, gently subdued melody and lyrics written from a woman’s perspective leave a strong impression.
The lyrics, expressing the lingering feelings of a woman after a breakup, feel very real—something almost anyone can relate to on some level.
Breakup songs that were hits in the 1980s. Classic and popular Japanese songs (21–30)
The Last Holy NightSugiyama Kiyotaka
Kiyotaka Sugiyama’s hit song “Saigo no HOLY NIGHT.” Released in November 1986, this track was used in a JAL commercial and later featured in a Tsuburaya Productions commercial as well.
It’s a rare case of a single song being used in multiple ads over a short period.
While it didn’t sell extraordinarily—about 250,000 copies, making it a moderate hit—because it was featured in several commercials as mentioned, many people will find it familiar.
