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 (31–40)
Friendanzenchitai
A song released by Anzen Chitai in October 1986 that gained popularity on the TV show “Yoru no Hit Studio” was used in a Daio Paper commercial.
Featured on the album Anzen Chitai V, it drew strong response, reaching No.
7 on the Oricon chart and peaking at No.
2 on The Best Ten.
Koji Tamaki’s expressively rich vocals poignantly convey the delicate emotional shifts of a relationship transitioning from lovers to friends.
The beautiful melody, unfolding from a wistful piano intro into a grand orchestral arrangement, gently resonates with anyone feeling the loneliness of a changing bond with someone dear.
JunkoNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s fifth single, “Junko.” It’s a track that was cut as a single from his 1979 album “Gyaku-ryu,” though the single itself was released in 1980.
It held the No.
1 spot on the weekly Oricon chart for eight consecutive weeks.
Although it wasn’t performed for a long time after his early live shows, it began appearing in his setlists again from 2004 onward.
For Nagabuchi’s fans, it’s a deeply nostalgic song.
Packed with his unique style—what you might call the quintessential “Nagabuchi-bushi”—it’s a track that even non-fans can enjoy.
Lonely Tropical FishWink
Wink, the top idol duo of the ’80s.
Back then, their expressionless singing style set them apart from other idols.
Their fifth single, “Samishii Nettaigyo” (Lonely Tropical Fish), released in 1989, shot to No.
1 on the Oricon charts right after its release and became a major hit.
The choreography for the song was also distinctive—it was even nicknamed the “Daimajin pose,” and everyone copied it, making it a huge talking point.
With its Eurobeat sound and the wistful feeling of the person you love not appearing before you, it’s a classic of the ’80s.
Younger listeners should definitely give it a try!
Ah, heartlessAn Ruisu
This song expresses a passionate, heartrending love story set to a powerful rock sound.
Released as a single in April 1986, it features lyrics by Reiko Yukawa and composition by NOBODY.
Considered the culmination of Ann Lewis’s kayō-rock style, it has captivated fans across generations with the artist’s powerful vocals.
In July 2006, it returned to the spotlight as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Thursday drama “Time of Distrust: Woman Wars.” The fusion of hard-hitting sound and richly emotive melody is striking, and its irresistibly danceable beat makes you tap along.
MissingKubota Toshinobu
Toshinobu Kubota delivers the bittersweet ache of an unattainable love with a sweet yet powerful voice.
The portrait of a love that cannot be fulfilled is drawn alongside a beautiful melody that seeps deep into the heart.
Included on his debut album “SHAKE IT PARADISE,” released in September 1986, the song was used as the ending theme for the TV programs “Uwasa-teki Tatsujin” and “World Pro Wrestling.” It’s a recommended track for times when you want to immerse yourself in memories of past love or revisit precious recollections you keep tucked away in your heart.