Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese pop idols of the 80s
The 1980s were truly the “golden age of idols,” a decade that saw the rise of many legendary Japanese idols who left their mark on music history, such as Seiko Matsuda and Akina Nakamori.
Not only did they spark a social phenomenon, with many young people emulating their hairstyles and fashion, but we also can’t overlook the fact that countless hits and timeless songs were born in that era—songs that are still sung today in the 2020s.
This article brings together and introduces the classic and hit songs performed by the idols of the 1980s.
Whether you’re from that generation or a younger music fan curious about idol songs from this era, be sure to check it out!
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Classic and Hit Songs by Nostalgic Japanese Idols of the 80s (51–60)
NAI・NAI 16Shibugakitai
Speaking of Shibugakitai, many people may still instantly think of “Sushi Kuinee,” but their debut single “NAI NAI 16” drew a lot of attention at the time: girls would scream, and boys would imitate and sing along starting from just before the chorus.
A maiden who came runningMita Hiroko
She made her entertainment debut after working as a model for the magazine Seventeen.
She debuted as an actress in the TV drama “2-nen B-gumi Sen Hachi Sensei.” Her relaxed Kyoto dialect left a strong impression, and she is also known for her natural, airy persona.
In 1991, she married kabuki actor Nakamura Hashinosuke.
Her debut song was “Kakete Kita Shojo,” composed by none other than Yosui Inoue.
uniformMatsuda Seiko
Seiko Matsuda has an enormous number of hit songs.
The reason she’s still active on the front lines is largely due to her vocal prowess and her continued streak of hits.
There’s no need to introduce the major songs that have been passed down for so long, but Seifuku is an absolute gem among graduation songs!
Nice to meet you, melancholy.Gō Hiromi
Hiromi Go, who has been active on the front lines for many years.
Has he already hit the big 6-0? Without relying solely on his classic hits, he continues to show us a new side of Hiromi Go in every era.
Still, if I had to pick just one song, I’d go with “Yoroshiku Aishū.”
Sexy NightMihara Junko
Junko Mihara, who is now active as a member of the House of Councillors, actually started out as an idol.
She broke out with the TV drama “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3-B,” and in addition to acting, she also made her debut as a singer.
Known as part of the tsuppari (delinquent) crowd, she stood out by taking a slightly different path from other idols.
Her song “Sexy Night” is a track she delivers in a low, powerful register.