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)
I wanted to talk to you.Minamino Yoko
Yoko Minamino, who debuted in 1984 and was affectionately known as “Nanno,” released “Hanashikaketakatta” in 1987.
The lyrics of this song are truly heartrending.
They sing about that time when I could only watch from afar, without the courage to speak up, as time simply slipped by—those timid days.
Yet, in contrast to the lyrics, Minamino sings it with a bright, lively energy, and that very cheerfulness makes her seem all the more brave and makes the song feel even more poignant.
It’s a bittersweet heartbreak song that seems to speak for our youthful days, and it remains a classic I still want to listen to now.
She and TIP ON DUOImai Miki
Miki Imai’s fourth single, “Kanojo to TIP ON DUO.” Released in 1988, this track was used as the Shiseido autumn campaign song that year, so those familiar with the ’80s probably heard it often in TV commercials.
While the melody is pop, the lyrics are moving: beneath the tough front of “I won’t think about him anymore!” you can feel the powerful sentiment of “I still love him.” It’s a quintessential ’80s song that people will want to revisit from their youth—and one that younger listeners should hear as well.
Breakup songs that were hits in the 1980s. Classic and popular Japanese songs (31–40)
Graduationsaitou yuki
Yuki Saito, who debuted in 1985 with “Sotsugyo,” is still active today, working not only as a singer but also as an actress, narrator, and lyricist.
This song remains popular and has been covered by numerous artists.
Its lyrics, like a snapshot of a fleeting page of youth, paired with an emotional melody and Saito’s heartrending voice, bring back the feelings of heartbreak from one’s younger days.
It’s a classic 80s breakup song that I especially recommend to anyone who wants to revisit the hit songs of their youth.
An outright serenadeInoue Yosui
Yosui Inoue’s hit song “Isso Serenade.” Released in October 1984, the track was featured in a Suntory commercial and went on to sell over 350,000 copies.
That might sound like an impressive number, but compared to other hits from the same era, it didn’t quite spark a massive craze.
Even so, it’s now known as one of Inoue’s signature works.
One likely reason it became established as a flagship song after its release is the prominent covers by major artists such as Mariko Takahashi and Yasushi Nakanishi.
Youthful RegretMatsutōya Yumi
Many of you may already know this, but “regret” is what the word “regret” means.
Regrets from our youth—did even a great artist like Yuming experience feelings that tugged at the heartstrings? Many of the songs she creates have a stylish, up-tempo vibe, yet for some reason they put you in a sentimental mood.
It’s mysterious—pay attention to the lyrics, too.
They’re said to pierce straight into the hearts of women.
This song is a one-of-a-kind expression that only she could create.
Rock ‘n’ Roll in a Dumped MoodTOM★CAT
Furare Kibun de Rock’n’ Roll is characterized by its upbeat, exhilarating rhythm.
Released in 1984, it was TOM★CAT’s debut single.
Sung with a techno vibe, big sunglasses, and a futuristic costume, this song became a major hit that continued to sell well into the following year, making it one of the signature tracks of the 1980s.
The lyrics are striking for their contrast: even after being dumped, there’s a determination to never show weakness and to one day turn the tables, while still revealing lingering feelings of love.
It’s a hit song you’ll want to keep listening to across the generations.
A Place in the SunHamada Shogo
A heart-stirring ballad that portrays an illicit love affair.
Included on the album “Before the Generation of Love,” Shogo Hamada’s work gently embraces the aching feelings that slumber deep within the heart.
Since its release in March 1981, it has continued to profoundly move countless listeners.
While depicting a love in the form of an extramarital relationship, it conveys, throughout, the loneliness of hiding from prying eyes and the inner conflict of not wanting to ruin the other person’s life, giving it a depth that goes beyond a simple love song.
It is a gem of a track that quietly stands by the hearts of adults who carry the weight of family, work, and life itself.