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)
Two People’s Summer StorySugiyama Kiyotaka & Omega Tribe
Kiyotaka Sugiyama & Omega Tribe was a band originating from the Popcon contest that was active for five years from 1980 to 1985, with Omega Tribe featuring Kiyotaka Sugiyama as the lead vocalist.
Their song “Futari no Natsumonogatari” was used in an airline’s travel campaign commercial and colored the summer of 1985.
The band disbanded at the end of that same year.
BE MY BABYCOMPLEX
This song shocked the Japanese rock scene in the late 1980s.
It was the debut single by COMPLEX, the unit formed by Koji Kikkawa and Tomoyasu Hotei, released in April 1989, and it reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
Featuring lyrics themed around love and a distinctive sound that fuses digital rock with rock, it showcases a perfect harmony between Kikkawa’s glamorous vocals and Hotei’s inventive guitar work.
The track was widely used across various media and was even featured in 1991 as the commercial song for Toyota’s Sera.
As a signature classic of the ’80s, it remains beloved by many to this day.
BODY TO BODYSOFT BALLET
SOFT BALLET debuted in 1989.
Since I think many people don’t know SOFT BALLET, I deliberately chose this song, “BODY TO BODY.” It’s one of their signature tracks, and even now, the sound and style that were far too innovative nearly 30 years ago still give me chills when I listen to it.
A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s (’81–’90)
TRAIN-TRAINTHE BLUE HEARTS
A track brimming with a sense of speed, carrying emotions that long for escapism and a message to society.
Hiroto Kōmoto’s powerful vocals resonate deeply.
Included on the album TRAIN-TRAIN, released in November 1988, it became one of THE BLUE HEARTS’ signature songs.
The lyrics, depicting a strong desire for dreams and freedom as well as the pain and conflicts of reality, have struck a chord with many.
Expressing the will to move toward one’s goals and the preciousness of life, this song is also cherished as an anthem that gives courage to face hardships.
Street Rock’n Roller44MAGNUM
44MAGNUM made their major debut in 1983.
Among the Japan metal boom, they were one of the Big Three Kansai metal bands.
With flashy looks and eccentric makeup, they were like a Japanese Mötley Crüe.
They have since reunited and are still active, with vocals handled by original member PAUL and his son, STEVIE.
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!
Cats N’ RatsPINK CLOUD
As a song that brought innovation to the rock scene of the 1980s, this track captured the hearts of many fans.
Characterized by philosophical lyrics and a dreamlike sound, it weaves themes such as the passage of time and light and shadow into a profound worldview.
Included on the album “CLOUD LAND — Tōgenkyō,” released in May 1982, it is highly regarded as a signature work by PINK CLOUD.
Centered on themes of nature and reverie, the piece fully showcases the band’s distinctive musicality.
It’s especially recommended for solitary listening on a quiet night.
While immersing yourself in the resonant lyricism, you’re sure to rediscover the allure of ’80s music.