In recent years, subscription-based services and other music platforms have been becoming the new standard for discovering music.
Perhaps as a result, songs from the Showa and Heisei eras have been enjoying revival hits more and more often.
On social media, too, classic gems from the past are being used in dance videos, and it feels like the J-pop scene has changed compared to a decade or two ago.
So this time, we’re introducing beloved Showa-era classics that are popular with Gen Z.
Whether they feel nostalgic to you or totally fresh, there’s something for every generation to enjoy!
- Showa-era songs that went viral on TikTok / revival hit songs
- A revival hit driven by social media! Heisei-era masterpieces that are resonating with Gen Z today
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- Hits that resonate across generations! Popular 1990s songs on TikTok
- [Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
- [Revisited] A roundup of popular and classic Showa-era songs that are trending now [2026]
- Dance music that was popular among Gen Z. A song that went viral.
- Songs from the Heisei retro era that will get any generation excited! Timeless tracks you’ll want to listen to now.
- Nostalgic yet new! Songs that made a comeback and became revival hits on TikTok
- Popular Showa-era pop. Timeless hit songs.
- So nostalgic it feels new? Showa retro classics that colored Japan’s period of rapid economic growth
- Old songs from the Showa to Heisei eras: a collection of timeless classics loved across generations
- Heisei-era hit songs gaining popularity on TikTok
A revival hit centered on social media! Showa-era classics popular with Gen Z (1–10)
Tears aren’t just for show.Nakamori Akina
This is the 10th single by singer Akina Nakamori, known as an emblematic idol of the 1980s whose overwhelming vocal power and expressiveness have kept her enduringly popular.
The impactful lyrics by Yosui Inoue and the catchy melody are outstanding, aren’t they? Released in November 1984, the song debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and became Nakamori’s third best-selling single.
Still loved by listeners across generations, it’s an idol song that’s sure to fire up any karaoke session.
The Door to SummerMatsuda Seiko
This is the fifth single released in April 1981 by Seiko Matsuda, who sparked a social phenomenon as a quintessential idol singer.
The lyrics, themed around summer scenes and romance, are characteristic, making it a quintessential pop work in the idol kayō genre.
When it was performed at the 32nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it became a hot topic that Seiko Matsuda had cut her long hair, worn since her debut, into a short style.
It has become a staple in her concerts, typically performed at the end or near the end, with fans joining in a customary sing-along.
As a refreshing song that evokes the arrival of summer, it is a beloved number cherished by many across generations.
Lullaby of a Serrated HeartChekkāzu
Known as their debut single, this song is characterized by lyrics in traditional 7-5 meter that express the feelings of a rebellious youth.
It was released in September 1983, but received renewed attention following the hit of “Namida no Request” the next year.
It also drew buzz for its frequent use in the drama “Uchi no Ko ni Kagitte…”.
Energetic and resonant, the track captures both defiance and delicate sensitivity, striking a chord with young listeners—and it’s also recommended for those who feel nostalgic about their youth.
Playback Part 2Yamaguchi Momoe
A song known as one of the signature tracks by Momoe Yamaguchi, a leading songstress of the Showa era.
Released in May 1978 as her 22nd single, it is distinguished by its unique lyrics and staging.
Innovative techniques for the time—such as moments of silence within the track and sudden scene changes—are employed throughout, keeping listeners engaged.
The lyrics depict the feelings of a free-spirited woman and deftly convey the complex emotions involved in romantic relationships.
This masterpiece beautifully fuses Yamaguchi’s delicate vocals with lyrics by Yoko Aki and music by Ryudo Uzaki.
It’s a perfect song to accompany a drive.
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
Released in March 1985, this song is the 20th single by Yoshimi Iwasaki, used as the opening theme for the TV anime Touch.
It’s a famous track recognized even by those unfamiliar with the anime.
Its catchy melody, woven with a driving beat and gentle vocals, is perfect for a road trip—and for those in their 40s, it may evoke nostalgia for their youth.
It’s also beloved as a staple for cheering at baseball games, making it a song cherished across generations.
Midnight Door ~ Stay With MeMatsubara Miki
A classic that colored Japan’s music scene in the 1980s is attracting attention overseas across time.
Miki Matsubara’s debut song is known as a quintessential city pop track, and thanks to the surge in city pop’s popularity since 2020, it has captured the hearts of listeners around the world.
With its smooth melodic lines and urbane sound, the piece was released in November 1979.
Revived through covers by overseas artists and its use on social media, this song can be enjoyed by listeners of all generations.
Sinbad on the Shorepinku redii
In the late 1970s, a signature hit that symbolized Japan’s disco boom was one of Pink Lady’s hallmark songs.
With its catchy melody and easy-to-remember lyrics, it quickly gained popularity and reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
Released in June 1977, the song sold an enormous number of records in a short time, propelling Pink Lady to instant stardom.
The lyrics depict a love story set against the backdrop of the summer sea, and together with the buoyant rhythm, they captured the hearts of many.
This is the perfect track for anyone who wants to feel the thrill of summer by the sea and the excitement of romance.