[1970s] Collection of Japanese hit songs. Nostalgic masterpieces of Japan
Japanese music in the 1970s saw incredible evolution across folk songs, Showa-era pop, idols, bands, and more.
From among them, we’ll introduce classic Japanese hits that everyone knows and that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
Many of these songs are still featured on music programs today and are covered by various artists—this song and that song alike.
You might use this list to immerse yourself in fond memories.
Of course, it’s also great for discovering something new.
Please enjoy the many massive hits and wonderful masterpieces that colored Japan in those days!
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[1970s] Collection of Japanese Hit Songs: Nostalgic Classics of Japan (21–30)
DOWN TOWNShugā Beibu
They’re an unforgettable presence in J-pop history as the band that featured Tatsuro Yamashita and Taeko Onuki, but their actual period of activity lasted only three years, from 1973 to 1976.
This song later became the ending theme for ‘Oretachi Hyokin-zoku,’ gaining nationwide recognition.
A Fateful Encounter at Twentyshigunaru
A four-member folk band that debuted in 1975.
Their debut single, “A Fateful Meeting at Twenty,” features delicate harmonies that gently draw listeners in, reaching No.
14 on the Oricon weekly chart and selling 300,000 copies.
Later, they formed a unit with Takao Horiuchi, formerly of Alice, and continued their activities.
[1970s] Collection of Japanese hit songs. Nostalgic Japanese classics (31–40)
Copypurasuchikkusu
They appeared in the late 1970s, when Y.M.O.’s emergence gave birth to the new genre of technopop.
It was an unconventional band made up primarily of members from fields outside music—illustrators, graphic designers, stylists, and more.
This track is their debut single, released in 1979.
trigger (of a gun)Sera Masanori & Tsuisto
Twist, known for Masanori Sera’s powerful vocals, won the Grand Prix at the 1977 Popcon national competition.
It was the first rock band to earn the title at Popcon, which had been centered on folk music.
Their third single, “Hizashi (Trigger),” also reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart.
Main Theme of ‘Taiyo ni Hoero!’Inoue Takayuki Bando
The Inoue Takayuki Band was formed by members of the Group Sounds scene that was popular in the 1960s.
They worked on numerous soundtracks for popular dramas and films of the 1970s, including Taiyo ni Hoero!, The Wounded Angel, and Dear Mother, among others.
The band disbanded in 1980.
Listening to OliviaAnri
A melody that gently envelops the lingering ache of a bittersweet romance, paired with refined musicianship, resonates deeply in the heart.
The lyrics, which carefully depict a woman healing her delicate emotions after a breakup while listening to Olivia Newton-John’s songs, have struck a chord with many.
With Anri’s clear, translucent vocals giving the piece a sophisticated, urban feel, it was released in November 1978 and included on the album “Anri.” In 2008, it was also featured as an insert song in the Nippon TV drama “Saito-san,” cementing its status as a timeless classic loved across generations.
This warm ballad offers comfort to those trying to recover from the pain of heartbreak and to anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.
Please give me wingsakai tori
The classic song that once appeared in music textbooks and was featured as an insert song in the anime K-On! was sung by Akaitori, a five-member folk band active in the 1970s.
After disbanding in 1974, the members each formed new units and continued their musical activities.