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 (51–60)
Dream-colored MessageNishimura Tomomi
This is the debut single of Tomomi Nishimura, known for her natural airheaded charm.
She made her entertainment debut after winning the Grand Prix at the 1st Miss Momoko Club.
“Yume no Message” is the theme song of her debut film, Don Matsugorō.
The song was written by the husband-and-wife team Etsuko Kisugi and Takao Kisugi.
Her singing voice is fresh and crystal clear.
waiting in vainHori Chiemi
She entered the entertainment industry after winning the Horipro Talent Scout Caravan.
She is well known for having married three times and having many children.
Her song “Machibōke,” written and composed by Mariya Takeuchi, won the New Artist Award at the 24th Japan Record Awards.
She also appeared in dramas and rose to prominence in Stewardess Monogatari, which popularized the catchphrases “Kyōkan” (Instructor) and “Doji de noroma na kame” (a clumsy, slow turtle).
wailing in griefKudō Shizuka
She won an award at the 3rd Miss Seventeen Contest and subsequently became active as a member of Onyanko Club.
After forming Ushirogami Hikaretai with fellow Onyanko members Akiko Ikuina and Makiko Saito, she made her solo debut.
With her powerful, punchy vocals, she scored a string of hits.
In 2000, she married SMAP’s Takuya Kimura.
Her signature song “Dōkoku” (Wailing), with lyrics by Miyuki Nakajima, was the theme song for the prime-time Monday drama “Ano Hi ni Kaeritai” (I Want to Return to That Day).
Nancy of Summer ColorsHayami Yū
She spent her childhood in Guam and Hawaii, and is also known for her fluency in English.
She is part of the celebrated “Class of ’82,” whose members are a who’s who of stars.
Her signature song is Natsuiro no Nancy, which was used in a Coca-Cola commercial in which she herself also appeared.
At the time, her tanned skin was striking, giving her a lively, energetic image.
Famous and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese pop idols from the 1980s (61–70)
They are lovers.Moritaka Chisato
She entered the entertainment industry after winning the Grand Prix at the 1st Pocari Sweat Image Girl Contest.
Her seventh single, “17-sai,” drew attention as a remake of Saori Minami’s song.
She also wrote lyrics herself, and her distinctive words were well received.
Her cosplay-style outfits also became famous.
Her husband is the actor Yosuke Eguchi.
“Futari wa Koibito” is her top-selling single.
Swaying ShonanIshikawa Hidemi
Later, there’s “Yu-re-te Shonan,” the signature song of Hidemi Ishikawa—who became the wife of Shibugakitai’s Yakkun—captured in the background of this photo.
So nostalgic! These days they’re often featured as a big, harmonious family, and it makes me think I’d love to hear her singing again.
Valentine KissKunikyo Sayuri
Kokushō! At the height of Onyanko Club’s popularity, even back then a lot of guys cheered for her by shouting “Kokushō!” rather than “Sayuri-chan!” “Valentine Kiss” is one of her signature songs, of course, and as someone from the generation that copied that choreography and danced it, I’d pick it as one of my top songs—even if it’s not exactly a hidden gem.