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 kayōkyoku masterpieces sung by female vocalists. Beloved nostalgic songs passed down through the years (11–20)
Everyone in a dreamTakada Kyoko
The single “Minna Yume no Naka” was released in 1969 by Kyoko Takada, the second vocalist of The Mikes, led by Mike Maki.
It was her first work under her solo name, earning her the New Artist Award at the 11th Japan Record Awards and her debut appearance at the 20th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
The song poignantly depicts the beloved who appears in a dream and fades away as the dream ends.
It has also been covered by Koji Tamaki and Saori Yuki, so be sure to give it a listen.
A cold morningYoshinaga Sayuri
Actress Sayuri Yoshinaga has appeared in numerous films and TV dramas and was awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon in 2006.
She made her debut as a singer with the 1962 single “Samui Asa” (Cold Morning).
A hit song chosen as the theme for the film “Akai Tsubomi to Shiroi Hana” (Red Buds and White Flowers), it also marked Yoshinaga’s first appearance at the 13th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
True to its title, the song features an impressive shift in sound from a minor-key part that evokes a cold winter to a major-key part that suggests the arrival of spring.
Let yourself go with the flow of timeTeresa Ten
Among the many masterpieces that sing of deep love, this is a particularly moving song.
It deftly depicts the evolving landscapes of love over time, and through its exquisite melody and exceptional expressiveness, it showcases Teresa Teng at her very best.
The song beautifully portrays unconditional love for someone dear, along with the self-sacrifice that springs from it, gently enveloping the listener’s heart.
Released in February 1986, it was also included on the album “Toki no Nagare ni Mi o Makase” (I Only Care About You).
It achieved the remarkable feat of winning the Grand Prix at the 19th Japan Cable Radio Awards for the third consecutive year, and it also received the Gold Award at the 28th Japan Record Awards.
Even today, it is widely covered by many artists and cherished across generations.
It is a recommended listen when you are thinking of someone special or wish to spend time in a calm, peaceful mood.
Why not immerse yourself in memories with a loved one and enjoy a heartwarming moment?
Beyond the GoodbyeYamaguchi Momoe
A gemlike ballad by Momoe Yamaguchi that portrays parting and gratitude on a grand scale.
Though it runs over six minutes, its expansive arrangement and deeply expressive vocals blend beautifully, stirring the listener’s heart.
Released in August 1980, this work came out just before Yamaguchi’s retirement, and at her final concert at the Nippon Budokan that October, many remember her singing it through tears.
While it conveys the impermanence that nothing lasts forever, it also suggests hope for new beginnings.
It is a song that deeply resonates with those who have experienced a farewell with someone dear or who find themselves at a turning point in life.
atonementTeresa Ten
One of the signature songs by Teresa Teng, the Taiwan-born singer who was hugely popular and known as the Diva of Asia, is “Tsugunai.” Covered by many artists, this song is likely something not only seniors but also younger people have heard somewhere.
It’s a number that conveys the regret and heartache of a couple who have decided to part ways, told from a woman’s perspective.
It can be nice to sing it and lose yourself in memories of past love in a gentle, reflective mood.
A classic karaoke song that’s great to sing and great to listen to!
cherry blossom frontKoyanagi Rumiko
It’s a poignant song with a cherry blossom theme.
It delicately portrays the scenes of a journey around Japan and the subtle shifts of the heart, where feelings for what’s been lost intersect with hopes for a new season.
Released in January 1976, the song features Rumiko Koyanagi’s warm vocals that speak gently to the heart.
It’s sure to be a strong companion both when you’re starting anew with the arrival of spring and when you feel the loneliness of loss.
Rumiko Koyanagi’s tender, heartrending melody will soothe your soul.
Classic Showa-era Kayōkyoku Masterpieces Sung by Female Vocalists: Beloved Nostalgic Songs Passed Down (21–30)
The last spring breakMatsutōya Yumi
This is a famous song by Yumi Matsutoya, known as a leading female singer-songwriter of the Showa era.
It delicately portrays the complex feelings of a girl on the verge of graduation, resonating deeply with listeners.
Included on the album OLIVE released in July 1979, the song was later used in the TBS drama “Rouge no Dengon,” and has been loved by people of all generations.
Carried by Matsutoya’s gentle voice and melody, it carefully expresses the emotions of a girl swaying before the season of farewells, giving it a universal appeal that anyone can relate to.
A heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to with the arrival of spring.