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)
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.”
Classic and Hit Songs by Nostalgic Japanese Idols of the 80s (51–60)
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.
CNagayama Miho
She made her debut in the TBS drama “Maido Osawagase Shimasu.” She became known for her deadpan acting in slightly risqué dramas.
While she is now a sultry, mature woman, back then she had a slightly boyish, sun-tanned image.
As a singer, her debut song was “C.” She was someone whose acting shone more than her singing.
Color · White BlendNagayama Miho
The song “Iro White Blend,” written by Mariya Takeuchi.
Influenced by a certain lead-role drama, Miho Nakayama had carried a delinquent (“yankee”) image for a while, but this track helped transform her image at a stroke—elevating her into the realm of a classic, mainstream idol who was also embraced by female audiences.
A girl like James DeanŌsawa Itsumi
She got her start by winning the Grand Prix at the 7th HoriPro Talent Scout Caravan.
Her selling point was her boyish style, and her short hair—rare for an idol—caught people’s attention at the time.
Her debut song, “A Girl Like James Dean,” was also very much in her style.
RomanceIwasaki Hiromi
Hiromi Iwasaki, who later transitioned into a career as a musical theater actress.
Even during her idol years, her vocal ability stood out above the rest.
More than the often-imitated “Cinderella Honeymoon,” the song “Romance” is one that really lets you hear the full expansiveness of her voice.
Take a deep breath.Watanabe Marina
Marina Watanabe, formerly known simply as “Marina,” came from the idol group Onyanko Club.
It was an era when even slightly off-pitch singing was considered cute.
“Shinkokyuu Shite” (Take a Deep Breath) was her solo debut single, and it drew a lot of attention at the time for making her the youngest artist ever to reach number one.