Debut song of a Japanese band from the 80s
Japan in the 1980s was in the midst of a full-blown band boom.
Many people likely started playing instruments because they admired bands like BOØWY and THE BLUE HEARTS.
This time, we’re showcasing a lineup of bands that debuted in the ’80s all at once.
It’s a roundup perfect for a nostalgic look back or for falling in love with them all over again.
- The debut song of a Japanese rock band from the 1980s
- A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s
- Debut song of an 80s visual-kei band
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- Debut songs by female artists from the 1980s
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
- Dawn of Japanese Rock: A Collection of Debut Songs by 1970s Japanese Rock Bands
- [1980s] Debut Songs and Classics by Japanese All-Girl Bands
- Debut song of a 90s visual kei band
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
- Nostalgic yet fresh!? Classic masterpieces of Japanese rock from the 1970s and 1980s
- Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
Debut songs by Japanese bands from the 1980s (31–40)
I’LL KILL YOUX
“I’LL KILL YOU” is the first single released by the visual kei rock band X on June 15, 1985.
The jacket features an actual photograph from the Vietnam War.
It was X’s first original song.
From their very first single, the driving speed makes it exhilarating to listen to.
It’s really cool.
ShakyamuniKinniku Shoujo Tai
Shaka is Kinniku Shojo-tai’s major-label debut single, released simultaneously with Buddha L on June 21, 1988.
It was a popular song that had been performed since their indie days.
The lyrics are very funny, yet the musical style is hard rock, and that imbalance is the best part.
Dance in the darkBARBEE BOYS
“Dance in the Dark” is Barbee Boys’ debut single, released on September 21, 1984.
Lately, comedians Onimatsu Tsubaki and Razor Ramon RG have been doing impressions of it.
The guitar sound is really cool.
The dual vocals by Kyoko and KONTA are full of allure and wonderful.
EARTHSHAKEREARTHSHAKER
EARTHSHAKER is a Kansai-based metal band formed in 1978.
Their debut release was the album “EARTHSHAKER.” Even today, their sound still feels fresh and cool.
If you’re in a band, why not try covering songs like these?
To be happyFLYING KIDS
“Shiawase de Aru Yō ni” is the first single by FLYING KIDS, released on April 4, 1990.
They debuted as a funk band in the 1980s, when hard rock and heavy metal were popular.
Formed by students from Tokyo Zokei University and others, they’re a very stylish band.
Beautiful night skyJUN SKY WALKER(S)
“Sutekina Yozora” is the debut single by JUN SKY WALKER(S), released on November 10, 1988.
The song begins at a slow tempo and features a charming love song.
Once the tempo picks up, it becomes a real energy booster at live shows.
Before it collapsesTHE MODS
THE MODS is a punk rock band that debuted in 1981.
Their sound, reminiscent of the Pistols and The Clash, is very cool.
“Kuzureochiru Mae ni” (Before It All Collapses) was released as their first single on June 21, 1981.
SUMMER SUSPICIONSugiyama Kiyotaka & Omega Tribe
“SUMMER SUSPICION” is the debut single by Kiyotaka Sugiyama & Omega Tribe, released on April 21, 1983.
It features a refreshing sound that perfectly suits the summer seaside.
Although their active period lasted only five years, from 1980 to 1985, they were a very popular band.
The Wax MuseumSeikima II
“House of Wax Figures” is Seikima-II’s debut single, released on April 2, 1986.
It was issued simultaneously with the grand scripture “THE END OF THE CENTURY.” Both the look and the musical style had a dark vibe—quintessential heavy metal.
A snap in yellow-green (moegi)anzenchitai
“Moegiiro no Snap” is Anzen Chitai’s first single, released on February 25, 1982.
It’s a song often referred to as their lost debut track.
A ballad-style piece, it’s performed with a gentle, heartfelt delivery.
Even from their debut, Koji Tamaki’s sensual, captivating vocals remain unmistakably intact.