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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Best City Pop Classics: Recommended Popular Songs [Classics & Modern] (21–30)
city; urban areaOhnuki Taeko
A song with an urbane musical sensibility that was popular from the late ’70s through the ’80s.
It’s one of Taeko Onuki’s signature tracks, included on her album “SUNSHOWER,” released in July 1977.
Ryuichi Sakamoto’s meticulous arrangement shines, featuring a sound characterized by elements of jazz and fusion.
Its appeal lies in the way it expresses the bustle and loneliness of city life.
Onuki’s delicate aesthetic and transparent vocals beautifully capture the complex emotions of urban living.
Highly recommended for those who want to savor a sophisticated atmosphere.
Tokyo TowerKadamatsu Toshiki
A single released in 1985.
The track is also included on the album “GOLD DIGGER ~with true love~,” which came out the same year, but the album version differs from the single version.
Since the album’s concept was “night and the city,” this song likewise evokes the nightscape of a big city.
Both the vocals and the performance are cool.
AliensKirinji
A single released in 2000 and one of Kirinji’s signature works.
While it evokes a languid, somewhat decadent mood, it also carries a dry, urban sensibility, making it quite a rare blend.
The lyrics, which stimulate the listener’s imagination, are also outstanding.
Two Red Starskinmokusei
Kinmokusei’s second single, following their 2000 debut.
Released in January 2002, it broke into the Oricon Top 10 and became one of their signature songs, with total sales of 230,000 copies.
Having identified themselves as city pop artists since their debut, their music has contributed to the recent resurgence of city pop within J-pop.
There’s no show as wonderful as love.Iwasaki Yoshimi
It may not be very well known, but it’s actually a classic by Yoshimi Iwasaki that strongly embodies city pop elements.
The natural flow of the melody, the lavish arrangement, the skillful key changes—every aspect is masterfully done.
You could also say that only Yoshimi Iwasaki, who had exceptional vocal ability for an idol singer of the time, could truly pull it off.
RIDE ON TIMEYamashita Tatsuro
When it comes to city pop, Tatsuro Yamashita is the name that comes to mind.
This was the lead single from his 1980 album “RIDE ON TIME.” It was his first single to enter the Oricon Top 100, peaking at No.
3, with total sales of 417,000 copies.
In 2003, it was re-released after being chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “GOOD LUCK!!” and has become a song loved across generations.
SeptemberTakeuchi Mariya
Standing alongside Yumi Matsutoya as a leading female artist in city pop is Mariya Takeuchi.
“September” is her third single, released in August 1979.
It peaked at No.
39 on the Oricon charts, sold a total of 100,000 copies, and won the New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards that year.