A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s
Speaking of the 1980s—especially the latter half—it was a time when many rock bands that would later rise to prominence made their debuts, laying the groundwork for the band boom that swept the early ’90s.
This time, we’ll introduce some classic songs by bands that were active in the ’80s.
If you watch footage of them from back then without having experienced it in real time, you might be surprised by their fashion and hairstyles.
But including their flamboyant “rock fashion,” please enjoy the sounds of the 1980s that led to the golden age of Japanese rock.
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- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- Classic nostalgic summer hits from the ’80s. A roundup of summer songs.
Classic and hit songs by bands active in the 1980s (71–80)
RASPBERRY DREAMREBECCA
REBECCA is a band that defined the ’80s, with NOKKO’s sexy, distinctive vocals and addictive sound.
In 1986, they released Raspberry Dream, which became a massive hit following their signature song Friends.
The sultry lyrics, which seem to bring out the best of REBECCA’s captivating sound, will make your heart race.
Listening to the track feels like time-traveling straight back to the 1980s.
If you want to fully immerse yourself in REBECCA’s one-of-a-kind sound—something you won’t find in the Heisei era and beyond—be sure to give it a listen!
White MiracleSeikima II
This is Seikima-II’s eighth single overall, released on August 2, 1989.
Seikima-II debuted with a fearsome, demonic image and a heavy metal sound that embodied it.
However, starting with their previous single “WINNER!” and then on their fifth album “THE OUTER MISSION,” produced by Akio Dobashi of Rebecca, they boldly incorporated synthesizers and began creating major-key songs, shedding their traditional demonic image and, in my view, making a significant musical leap forward.
The track introduced here, “Shiroi Kiseki” (“White Miracle”), could be called the culmination of their early evolution: a beautiful major-key ballad that lets you fully appreciate His Excellency Demon’s powerful vocal ability.
Even as their music evolved, their visual image has remained unwavering from debut to the present, and that consistency is part of their appeal.
A classic 80s Japanese rock ballad—please enjoy!
MORNING AFTERRED WARRIORS
RED WARRIORS debuted in 1986.
Their signature songs include “Bara to Wine” (Roses and Wine).
While many of RED’S songs feature straightforward, masculine messages when written by Mr.
YUKAI, Mr.
SHAKE’s lyrics tend to be delicate and gentle.
“MORINIG AFTER” is a song created by Mr.
SHAKE.
I’m a LoserUNICORN
UNICORN debuted in 1987.
Their signature songs include “Dai Meiwaku (Big Trouble)” and “Subarashii Hibi (Wonderful Days).” This song, “I’m A Loser,” is included on an album and is a masterpiece that retains the bittersweet, somewhat nostalgic feel seen in UNICORN’s early days.
Get WildTM NETWORK
Released in April 1987, this song is known as one of TM NETWORK’s signature tracks.
It’s a dance number distinguished by its synthesizer-driven sound and was also used as the ending theme for the anime City Hunter.
The lyrics, which evoke images of racing through the city at night and a resolve to solve the puzzle of love, are particularly striking.
The track is infused with the glamorous sound unique to the 1980s, yet it still feels fresh today.
Electronic tones dart about as the upbeat rhythm lifts your spirits.
Listening to this song can stir a longing for that glittering era and even inspire motivation to live fully in the present.
Lovers’ PavementTHE ALFEE
The Alfee (now stylized as THE ALFEE) released their 19th single on October 17, 1984.
The year before, in 1983, they broke through with “Mary Ann,” and this single became the band’s first to reach No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
Featuring Takamizawa on lead vocals, the track is a beautifully crafted ballad brimming with clarity, showcasing his crystal-clear high tones to the fullest.
Naturally, it also highlights one of their key strengths—the exquisite three-part harmonies of the members—through its arrangement and production.
It can rightly be called one of the great ballads of the 1980s.
The Clown’s MelancholyTHE STREET SLIDERS
This track, whose husky vocals sink into your chest, is The Street Sliders’ “Dokeshi no Yuuutsu” (“The Clown’s Melancholy”).
It’s a beautiful ballad with a dry, aching guitar sound.
A classic you’ll want to play in those moments of sudden loneliness on a tipsy walk home.
It’s included on the album “Ganjigarame.”
