Songs that were popular in the early Showa era, hit songs [Japanese songs]
I want to know the early Showa-era songs! For those who feel the same, we’ve put together a list of hit songs from the early Showa period.
We’ve selected tracks from Showa Year 1 to Showa Year 20.
They have a different charm from the Showa kayō songs that became widely loved from the 1970s onward, even as the times changed.
Many of the pieces have a relaxed tempo and a solid, dignified atmosphere—songs that truly invite you to “listen to the singing.”
As you take it in, savor the profound resonance of the Japanese language, and please listen at your leisure.
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Songs that were popular in the early Showa era, hit songs [Japanese songs] (11–20)
The two are young.Dick Mine, Reiko Hoshi
Futari wa Wakai (The Two Are Young) is a duet song by singer Dick Mine and actress Reiko Hoshi, released in 1935 as the B-side to the theme song of the comedy film The Peeped-at Bride.
A duet between a major pre- and postwar star—who was even labeled delinquent for singing jazz before the war—and a movie star drew widespread attention.
With lyrics by Hachirō Satō and music by Masao Koga, its sweet words and bright, light melody resonated with the public, and it reportedly became a bigger hit than the A-side.
The Path of Suzukake (Tree)Katsuhiko Haida
Katsuhiko Haida was a singer who gained popularity with Hawaiian music, yodeling, and pop songs, and also thrived as an actor.
Released in September 1942 during World War II, “Suzu Kake no Michi” became a hit as one of the rare songs of the wartime era that lacked any noticeable military overtones.
The ensemble featuring ukulele and strings, contrasted with his resonant, deep vocals, has an alluring charm despite its dark atmosphere.
Covered by renowned artists such as Keiko Fuji and Sayuri Ishikawa, it is a quintessential number from the early Showa period.
Yearning for youTeiichi Futamura
Influenced by overseas popular songs, Sadaichi Futamura taught himself vocal techniques and became one of Japan’s leading jazz singers.
His song “Kimi Koishi,” released on December 20, 1928 (Showa 3), became one of the defining hits of the early Showa era and is known as his signature piece.
Its slightly wistful lyrics and melody are suffused with the atmosphere of the transition from the Taisho to the Showa period.
In the latter part of the Showa era, it was covered by various artists, becoming a timeless number loved across generations.
Maiden of the LakesideAkiko Kikuchi
Akiko Kikuchi, a singer who earned full mastery of the biwa at the age of six, made her debut as a vocalist in 1939.
Her single “Lakeside Maiden,” released on November 15, 1942, became a major hit as the theme song for the film Farewell by the Lakeside.
Its clear, soaring high tones and lyrical melody evoke the charm of Japan’s bygone musical era.
It’s an emotional number you’ll want to hear while paying attention to the lyrics, which are steeped in the beauty of the Japanese language.
Habu HarborYoshie Fujiwara
Beloved as “our tenor,” Yoshie Fujiwara was a vocalist who traveled across many countries and enjoyed popularity in the opera world both before and after the war.
His song Habu no Minato, released in July 1928, drew attention at the time for being issued as a high-priced red-label record.
Set against a piano-only accompaniment, his rich, resonant voice evokes vivid images of Habu Port Village, the setting of the piece.
It’s a nostalgic number marked by a melody that leaves a lingering sense of melancholy.
Elegy of SpringShirō Shōji
Shiro Shoji, a singer who epitomized the early Showa era, is known for the classic “Spring Elegy.” It overlays lost love and the transience of spring with falling blossoms.
Composed by Yuji Koseki, the song is memorable for Taro Shoji’s distinctive vocal style.
Set to a leisurely tempo, the lyrics—showcasing the beauty of the Japanese language—resonate deeply.
Released in 1934, the piece went on to have a major impact on the music scene.
It’s a nostalgic yet fresh song you’ll want to hear with the arrival of spring.
Spring of the AccordionTadaharu Nakano
Tadaharu Nakano’s “Accordion no Haru” is a song filled with the charm of early Showa-era popular music.
The light, lively sound of the accordion evokes the arrival of spring.
Nakano’s gentle singing voice seems to tenderly wrap expectations and hopes for the new season.
With a nostalgic Showa atmosphere, it makes you want to head out for a stroll in the cheerful spring weather.
It’s included on the 2021 album “Onko Chishin: Showa no Meikashu Tadaharu Nakano,” so be sure to give it a listen.
Influenced by Western light music, it’s a piece that conveys the breeze of a new era.
In conclusion
I introduced songs that were popular in the early Showa period. I imagine many of you may be hearing them for the first time, but I hope you could feel the unique resonance and weight of the Japanese language. It might also broaden your experience to continue listening by linking hit songs by the same singer.