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 (41–50)
Blue Coral ReefMatsuda Seiko
It’s a classic with a striking intro that seems to carry the sparkle of the sun and the scent of the sea breeze.
You can picture a summer day by the ocean with someone you love—the racing heartbeat and the little burst of boldness that comes with it.
It evokes scenes of a sweet and dazzling romance.
This song, which propelled Seiko Matsuda to the status of “eternal idol,” was released in July 1980 as her second single and is also included on her debut album, SQUALL.
As the theme for Glico’s ice cream commercial, it brightened living rooms across the nation and topped The Best Ten for three consecutive weeks.
It’s a refreshing track that instantly paints listeners’ hearts in summer hues.
Flashy!!!Nagayama Miho
This track layers Miho Nakayama’s powerful vocals over an uptempo dance tune woven from synthesizers and drum machines.
Released as a single in July 1987, it became a hit, peaking at No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
With lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, music by Tsugutoshi Goto, and arrangement by Motoki Funayama, it brilliantly fuses ’80s synth-pop with glamorous dance music.
Although it had no commercial tie-ins, its captivating performance and vibrant sound won over many fans.
Featuring an energetic melody and positive lyrics, it’s perfect for dance parties or driving.
It’s a great pick both for those who spent their youth in the ’80s and for listeners who want to enjoy a fresh take on a retro sound.
A slight fever, maybeitō maiko
She’s often associated with variety shows, but she originally debuted as an idol singer and also worked as an actress.
In her signature drama, “Bad Girl,” she gave a compelling performance as a delinquent—a role you wouldn’t expect from her baby-faced looks.
She’s known as a hard worker and for her intellect, having entered Waseda University in 2010.
“Mild Fever Kana” is her debut single.
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!
Fairy AgeIshikawa Hidemi
She made her entertainment industry debut through the “Hideki Saijo’s Little Sister” audition.
She was active as one of the so-called fiercely competitive ‘Flower 1982 Cohort.’ After marrying Hirohide Yakumaru of Shibugakitai, she retired from show business.
“Yosei Jidai” (Fairy Days) was her debut single, and her fresh, innocent vocals and almost-bursting cheeks left a strong impression.