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.
Masterpieces and Hit Songs by Nostalgic Japanese Idols of the ’80s (21–30)
DESIRENakamori Akina
Akina Nakamori, who debuted after being discovered on Star Tanjō, is renowned for her exceptional vocal ability.
She released one hit after another, and DESIRE -Jounetsu- won the Japan Record Award, making it her second consecutive win following the previous year’s Mi Amore.
The song is also notable for its distinctive costume: a kimono styled with a bob wig and paired with high heels—a bold, innovative look.
The choreography is also a highlight.
Dancing HeroOginome Yōko
She was scouted when she appeared on “Chibikko Utamane Best Ten” and entered the entertainment industry.
At first, she formed a three-member elementary school group called “Milk.” She later debuted as a solo artist, with “Dancing Hero” being her seventh single release.
At the time, the style of singing while dancing was rare, and her skill in dance stood out.
Temptation Beam: Clak!Hayami Yū
When it comes to Yū Hayami’s signature songs, “Natsuiro no Nancy” comes to mind, but this track, “Yūwaku Kōsen: Clap!,” was also used in a Shiseido commercial at the time and was one of the songs that was particularly popular with women.
Rather than a polished idol, Yū-chan was loved for her slightly awkward dancing and her down-to-earth, ordinary manner.
Even looking back now, her dancing is still awkward.
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
Yoshimi Iwasaki, the younger sister of Hiromi Iwasaki.
She later said that she went through considerable hardship at the time of her debut, overshadowed by her sister’s vocal ability and name recognition, but this song, “Touch,” is still being sung today and has become a special piece for her as well.
Currently, in addition to her singing career, she has long served as the narrator for the NHK Educational TV broadcast of the animated series Curious George.
Stop fightingKawai Naoko
I’m sure many people were fans of her slightly glamorous look.
Her ever-present smile was memorable.
This is her 10th single release, with lyrics and music by the one and only Mariya Takeuchi.
It beautifully captures a heart swaying between two men.
She turns out to have surprising vocal chops, delivering the song with a smooth, heartfelt touch.
GraduationKikuchi Momoko
She gained popularity as a pure and innocent idol with an adorable smile.
“Graduation” was her fourth single release and became her biggest hit.
The way she gently sways her body to keep the rhythm as she sings is her distinctive style.
In her personal life, she was unfortunate and went through a divorce.
ribbonHori Chiemi
Speaking of Chiemi Hori, she became a huge star with the drama Stewardess Monogatari, famous for the lines “Instructor!” and “I’m a clumsy, slow turtle!” Kids back then all used to imitate them.
Her song Ribbon portrays a girl’s feelings of getting a little jealous of her boyfriend, and Chiemi-chan’s little “Sorry” in it was so cute.