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!
- Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- A collection of nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1980s that still linger in our ears
- Iconic and hit songs by Johnny’s from the 1980s
- Nostalgic Yet Everlasting: Classic Hits by 1990s Idol Singers
- 80s commercial songs. A roundup of Japanese songs from the 80s that have been used in commercials.
- [Nostalgic] A roundup of anime songs and theme songs that were hits in the 1980s
- Akina Nakamori’s classic and popular songs
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- Masterpieces and hit songs of 80s Japanese pop (kayōkyoku)
- Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Ranking]
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- Recommended for women in their 50s! A curated selection of classic and popular karaoke hits that will get the crowd going
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
Classic and Hit Songs by Nostalgic Japanese Idols of the ’80s (1–10)
Startled! GoodTahara Toshihiko
Known as a landmark song in 80s idol pop, this track was released in September 1980 as Toshihiko Tahara’s second single.
Its lyrics, which vividly and refreshingly capture the flutter of a romance sparked by a chance encounter, leave a lasting impression.
It was also used in a Glico chocolate commercial, and its co-starring appearance with Seiko Matsuda drew considerable attention.
Debuting at No.
1 on the Oricon chart, it sold over 620,000 copies.
As one of Tahara’s signature songs, it continues to be loved by many.
It’s highly recommended for those who want to reminisce about the sweet memories of their youth or savor the essence of 80s idol pop.
C−GirlAsaka Yui
It can be considered one of Yui Asaka’s signature songs, emblematic of the late-’80s idol scene.
Its poppy melody about a breezy summer romance and the catchy lyrics—typical of a commercial tie-in—leave a strong impression.
Released in June 1988, it was a major hit, topping the Oricon chart for two consecutive weeks.
Used as a Kanebo cosmetics commercial song, it captured the hearts of young women.
It’s recommended not only for those who feel nostalgic about their youth, but also for anyone who wants to discover the appeal of 1980s idol pop.
Give me a last kiss on the cheekMatsumoto Iyo
Speaking of Iyo-chan, many people probably think of “Sentimental Journey,” with its line, ‘Iyo is still 16,’ but because that image kept following her around, she tried several times to move away from the Sentimental Journey persona.
One of the songs from that period is “Last Kiss wa Hō ni Shite,” with lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto.
Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese pop idols of the ’80s (11–20)
Rainy NishiazabuTonneruzu
Back then, this song was a hit too.
Lyrics, composition, and production were all by Yasushi Akimoto.
It was Tonneruzu’s “Ame no Nishi-Azabu” during Akimoto’s first golden era.
Around that time, Fuji TV won the triple crown, right? It was an era when Fuji was thriving in both variety shows and dramas.
Heartbroken over JuliaChekkāzu
It’s a classic that sings about the pain of a youthful heartbreak.
Its bittersweet melody and heartfelt lyrics resonated with many listeners.
Released in November 1984, the song topped the Oricon annual singles chart the following year and became a major hit, selling about 700,000 copies.
It was also used in a Mazda Familia commercial, making it popular across a wide audience.
The track brilliantly fuses The Checkers’ pop rock with synth-pop elements, featuring an energetic sound.
As a quintessential 80s youth anthem, it remains beloved to this day.
It’s the perfect song for healing a broken heart or when you feel nostalgic for your younger days.
Monument of SorrowMinamino Yoko
It’s one of the quintessential hits of the ’80s and an indispensable song when talking about Yoko Minamino’s career.
Released in March 1986 as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama Sukeban Deka II: The Legend of the Iron-Masked Girl, it captured the hearts of many young people.
With a quintessentially ’80s idol-pop melody, the lyrics interweave bittersweet love, loneliness, and hope for the future—truly memorable.
Portraying someone who overcomes past sorrows to discover a new self, the song is the very essence of youth.
In harmony with the drama’s worldview, it’s a track that leaves a deep impression on listeners.
It’s recommended not only for those experiencing heartbreak or loneliness, but also for anyone who feels nostalgic for ’80s youth.
ZIGZAG SeventeenShibugakitai
Released in 1982 and peaking at No.
5 on the Oricon charts, this song is known as one of Shibugakitai’s signature tracks—a coming-of-age anthem that portrays the romance of a 17-year-old.
Sung by the trio who had gained popularity as the “Senpachi Trio,” its poppy, catchy sound became emblematic of youth culture at the time.
Its style, influenced by Japonisme, was also distinctive and earned high praise on music ranking programs.
Perfectly matching the youthful image of Toshikazu Fukukawa, Masahiro Motoki, and Hidehiro Yakumaru, the track conveys the energy of youth and a free-spirited view of love through their performance.
It’s a recommended listen not only for those nostalgic for their teenage years but also for younger music fans interested in 1980s music.