A classic Showa-era kayōkyoku song sung by a female vocalist. A nostalgic tune passed down through the years.
When you think of the Showa era, it was the golden age of kayōkyoku (Japanese pop).
Countless songs by both male and female artists were released, and many timeless classics are still loved today.
In this article, we’ll focus on songs by female singers from among those masterpieces.
We’ve selected not only the massive hits of the time but also many tracks that continue to enjoy enduring popularity across generations.
Take this opportunity to savor them—sing along or simply listen—as you reminisce about those days.
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Classic Showa-era kayokyoku hits sung by female vocalists. Beloved nostalgic songs passed down through generations (1–10)
Rainbow-colored lakeNakamura Akiko
Since her debut in 1965, Akiko Nakamura has created numerous classic songs that have colored the times.
Among the most memorable—also marking her first appearance on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen—is “Niji-iro no Mizuumi” (Rainbow-Colored Lake).
Set to a wistful melody, the song asks what happiness in life truly is.
This universal theme is surely one reason it continues to be cherished across generations.
Although it went unreleased on CD for many years and was even called a “legendary hidden gem,” it is now available in physical form.
Drops of LoveItō Yukari
Yukari Ito is known for popularizing pop music in the 1960s, when it was still unfamiliar to many Japanese listeners.
Among the songs she worked on, Kois no Shizuku drew attention for its distinctive vocals that seem to blend enka with pop.
The title is said to refer to tears, and the song portrays the sorrow of a woman after a heartbreak.
It’s undeniably melancholic, yet part of its appeal lies in lyrics that also convey a sense of sentiment and even humor.
Blue Light Yokohamaishida ayumi
Ayumi Ishida’s Blue Light Yokohama was released in 1968.
The song has become a local anthem for Yokohama, and for people from the city it’s about as familiar as the children’s song Red Shoes.
Incidentally, she made her first appearance at the 20th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1969 with this song.
Also, Kyōhei Tsutsumi, who composed it, won the Composer’s Award at the 11th Japan Record Awards.
You can tell how highly it was regarded at the time!
Classic Showa-era kayōkyoku masterpieces sung by female vocalists. Beloved nostalgic songs passed down through the years (11–20)
Drinks for twoAzusa Michiyo
“Futari de Osake o,” released by Michiyo Azusa in 1974, features a bouncy rhythm centered on the theme of adult romance.
Her husky, rich vocals make you feel relaxed and at ease as you listen.
By the way, she also appeared with this song on the 25th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
She has many other classics as well, such as “Konnichiwa Akachan” and “Melancholy.” Each song has its own distinctive flavor, so definitely give them a listen!
Keiko’s Dream Opens at NightFuji Keiko
Keiko’s Yume wa Yoru Hiraku is a captivating song released in 1970 that showcases Keiko Fuji’s dark, moody aesthetic.
Starting at a very slow tempo, her rich, husky low voice grips you from the intro.
The lyrics, which feel like a sorrowful reflection on one’s life, can easily bring you to tears.
By the way, this song is based on Mari Sono’s 1966 release Yume wa Yoru Hiraku.
Since then, it has been loved and performed by many artists over the years.
hopeKishi Yoko
“Hope” is a single released in 1970 by Yoko Kishi, who was one of Japan’s leading chanson singers.
It reached No.
2 on the Oricon Singles Chart and earned her the Vocal Performance Award at the 12th Japan Record Awards.
The song was originally composed for a musical starring Chieko Baisho, but it was reportedly never recorded because it was too long.
Kishi’s version was used in a segment of the variety show “Matsuri da! Wasshoi!” and also served as the entrance march for the 43rd National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
At the tavernEri Chiemi
Chiemi Eri, known as a “prodigy since Hibari Misora,” released Sakaba nite (At the Bar) in 1974.
Although it peaked at No.
22 on the Oricon charts, it became a long-selling hit.
It’s a track where you can fully appreciate the rich vocals and technique she cultivated singing jazz at U.S.
military camps, and the lyrics—about a lonely woman drinking alone at a bar after a broken romance—are deeply affecting.
It’s a classic that has been covered by many enka singers, including Sayuri Ishikawa, Yoshimi Tendo, and Fuyumi Sakamoto, so be sure to give it a listen.