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 (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.
Stay aquamarineKarurosu Toshiki & Omega Toraibu
Even after changing their name from 1986 Omega Tribe to Carlos Toshiki & Omega Tribe, the band kept churning out hits, and their refreshing sound gives them a strong “summer band” image.
They were a perfect fit for summer and the sea, right up there with TUBE and Southern All Stars.
“The love is ending and you’re changing, but only when you’re with me…”—he compares the girl he doesn’t want to change to an aquamarine shining with eternal brilliance.
If heartbreak could be this stylish, I’d want to experience it at least once! If you haven’t listened to them yet, you definitely should!
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.
I’ll wait.amin
Amin’s “Matsuwa” sings of always thinking about the one you love, no matter what.
Released in 1982 as their debut single, it was written and composed by member Takako Okamura, who also works as a singer-songwriter.
Everything about the song is captured in its title, which means “I’ll wait.” Even if there’s little hope of ever being together, it depicts a single-minded resolve to keep thinking of that special person and to keep waiting.
It’s a song that will resonate with your feelings when you’re just not ready to give up yet.
Hello, Sadnesssaitou yuki
Yuki Saito, who emerged from Miss Magazine, was something of an outlier during the idol boom of the ’80s and ’90s.
In today’s terms, she had a bit of a “mysterious girl” vibe.
Her unpolished, unaffected charm—unspoiled by the entertainment industry—may also have been part of her appeal.
This song is about a “strong girl” who doesn’t stop moving forward even after heartbreak or a breakup.
Its pleasantly upbeat tempo—unusual for a breakup idol song—should help soothe the sting of lost love.
It’s a feel-good track I’d love people who are moping after a breakup to listen to!