Best City Pop Classics: Recommended Popular Songs [Timeless & Modern]
City pop has been gaining momentum, especially overseas, after Mariya Takeuchi’s “Plastic Love” exploded in views on YouTube.
Originally, it referred to songs from the late 1970s to the 1980s that emphasized a sophisticated, urban vibe, but over time its definition and interpretation have gradually expanded.
Since the 2000s, it’s also been discussed in terms of its stylish, moody image, and perceptions vary from person to person.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of tracks—from classic, beloved city pop that laid the foundations of modern pop music to songs that capture a fresh, contemporary feel.
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- From Japan! Technopop masterpieces and recommended popular tracks
- Popular Showa-era pop. Timeless hit songs.
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- A Classic of Korean City Pop [KOREAN CITY POP]
- Nothing but iconic hits that defined an era! 2000s classics popular on TikTok
Best City Pop Classics: Recommended Popular Songs [Timeless & Modern] (71–80)
ODD TAXIsukaato to PUNPEE
This track features a sophisticated lo-fi beat that flows like the hustle and bustle of the city and the scenery of the night.
Skirt’s acoustic guitar and the saxophone crafted by PUNPEE beautifully capture the urban views you glimpse on a nighttime drive.
While portraying urban solitude and complex human relationships with a distinctive touch, the city as seen from a taxi driver’s perspective resonates deeply with listeners.
Released in April 2021 as the opening theme for the TV anime Odd Taxi, a re-recorded version was included on the album SONGS in November 2022.
It’s a piece that carries a mature afterglow, perfect for late-night drives or quiet moments in a nighttime café.
I want to be honest. Don’t you tell him?haifaisetto
A single released in 1984.
The lyrics and composition are by Masamichi Sugi.
For a Hi-Fi Set song, it has a notably strong pop sensibility—perhaps because Sugi, a devoted Beatles fan, let that influence shine through.
The key-changing chorus is filled to the brim with the feelings of a woman in love, making it irresistibly cute.
COBALT HOURArai Yumi
A light, fusion-tinged track.
The word “cobalt” gives the song a stylish flair, and its vibrant, dynamic sound still feels fresh today.
It was included on the self-titled album released in 1975.
The star-studded lineup—Haruomi Hosono on bass, Shigeru Suzuki on guitar, and backing vocals by Tatsuro Yamashita, Minako Yoshida, and Hi-Fi Set—also drew attention.
Dancin’ With Your LiesSing Like Talking
A song that showcases the vocal prowess of Sato Chikuzen, the singer of the three-piece band.
It was their debut single in 1988.
The track was also included on their 1989 album “Try And Try Again.” Although the band never had a major breakthrough, they continue to be supported by a dedicated fan base.
GRAVITATIONSInoue Akira
A song with a cool guitar riff in the intro.
All the lyrics are in English.
The sound is mostly fusion.
Released in 1981, this track was used at the time in a TV commercial for tires.
The strong sense of speed likely comes from the imagery of a car driving down the highway.