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 (1–10)
Second LoveNakamori Akina
As a masterpiece of 80s idols, today we’re introducing a certain classic song.
Sung by Akina Nakamori, this work expresses the bittersweet feelings of love through delicate lyrics and melody, making it truly a timeless anthem of youth.
Released in November 1982, the song became Nakamori’s first number one on the Oricon charts and was a huge hit, selling approximately 770,000 copies.
Written and composed by the Kisugi siblings, it brings out Nakamori’s charm to the fullest and remains one of her signature songs, loved by many to this day.
The lyrics, which brilliantly portray the feelings of a woman troubled by love, will deeply resonate with listeners.
It’s recommended for times when you want to heal the pain of heartbreak or when you find yourself touched by a wistful longing for love.
Smile for MeKawai Naoko
When it comes to classic idol hits from the ’80s, you can’t leave out this song by Naoko Kawai.
Its positive message about the importance of a smile must have resonated with many people.
Released in June 1981 as her fifth single, it was a milestone that became her first to break into the Oricon Top 10.
It peaked at No.
4, sold 260,000 copies, and led to her first appearance at the 32nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year, as well as winning the Golden Idol Award at the 23rd Japan Record Awards.
Kawai’s refreshingly clear vocals and the upbeat lyrics are a perfect match in this track—truly a quintessential ’80s idol song.
It’s the perfect pick-me-up when you’re feeling down or need a boost of energy.
SWEET MEMORIESMatsuda Seiko
This is a song whose sweet melody, filled with nostalgia for past love, deeply resonates in the heart.
Seiko Matsuda’s clear, soaring vocals gently wrap youthful, bittersweet memories.
Released in August 1983, it was originally a B-side, but gained popularity after being featured in a Suntory CAN Beer commercial.
There’s also an interesting anecdote that lyricist Takashi Matsumoto and composer Haruomi Hosono completed it in about an hour.
If you want to feel the poignancy and beauty of love, give it a listen—it will surely speak to your heart.
Sailor Suit and Machine GunYakushimaru Hiroko
This work, which marked Hiroko Yakushimaru’s debut single, was released in November 1981 as a movie theme song and became a major hit.
With its pure image and clear vocals, it offered a fresh impression amid the idol boom of the time.
The lyrics, themed around a girl’s growth and a new departure, were also embraced as an anthem that draws out the hidden strength of youth.
Thanks in part to the movie tie-in, it became a blockbuster on the Oricon charts, selling about 1.2 million copies.
It is a landmark 1980s idol song—one to be listened to alongside memories of one’s youth.
Love Won’t StopWink
Their song “Ai ga Tomaranai” (Can’t Stop Love) was the catalyst for their big breakthrough.
Their momentum continued into the 1990s, and their songs kept lighting up the charts through the mid-’90s.
It was even said that the new headquarters of their then-record label was built on the back of their many hits.
Lips NetworkOkada Yukiko
She entered the entertainment industry after appearing on Star Tanjō! and joined Sun Music Production, the same agency as her idol Seiko Matsuda.
Kuchibiru Network was her eighth single, with lyrics written by Seiko Matsuda, who was pregnant at the time and on hiatus from show business.
The song was also used in a Kanebo cosmetics commercial, but she died by suicide two months after its release.
Subtly flashy (bling-bling, but nonchalant)Kondō Masahiko
A quintessential idol song from the 1980s that needs no introduction! This single, which defined Masahiko Kondo’s career, features lyrics depicting the romance of a cool, urban young man and a catchy melody.
Released in September 1981 and used in commercials for House Foods and Fujifilm, it became an anthem of youth culture at the time.
With this track, Kondo won the Best New Artist award at the 23rd Japan Record Awards and made his first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year.
It’s highly recommended for those nostalgic for youthful days swayed by love, or anyone interested in the music culture of the ’80s.
A perfect blend of flashiness and subtlety—truly the essence of 1980s idol pop.