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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- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- Debut song of an 80s visual-kei band
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- Cool band: A rock band that represents Japan
- 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.
A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s (’81–’90)
romanticTHE STALIN
A signature song by THE STALIN, known for its fierce guitar riffs and aggressive vocals.
The lyrics leave a strong impression with their sharp criticism and biting satire of society, listing various “-ists” to highlight the gap between ideals and reality.
Released in 1982, the track was performed under the title “Shugisha (Ist)” during their indie era.
A music video directed by filmmaker Sogo (Sōgo) Ishii was also produced, visually portraying THE STALIN’s worldview.
It’s a must-listen for anyone troubled by social contradictions and the disconnect between ideals and reality.
Special BoyfriendGO-BANG’S
GO-BANG’S is a three-woman band.
Their signature song—and biggest hit—is “Aini Kite I NEED YOU!” but the track that sparked that success was this one, “Special Boyfriend.” Kaori Moriwaka’s vocals were coquettish and captivating.
1974 (Visitor from 16 Light-Years)TM NETWORK
Released on July 21, 1984 as TM Network’s second single.
As many of you know, TM Network is the group that included the renowned producer Tetsuya Komuro, who would later go on to create a string of million-selling hits.
I think you can already sense a glimpse of his knack for memorable, catchy melodies in this early work, “1974.” When this song was released, I first heard it on a music TV program, and I still vividly remember how I was immediately captivated by its pop sound, laden with synthesizers.
Impossible!bakufū suranpu
Bakufu Slump debuted in 1984.
Their signature songs include “RUNNER” and “Under the Big Onion.” While they’re often associated with breezy or fiery tracks, they originally had the vibe of a comic band, and among those, the song “Muri da!” really stands out.
For many people, when you think of Bakufu Slump, this is the song that comes to mind.
KOME KOME WARkome kome CLUB
It was released in 1988 as Kome Kome Club’s seventh single.
A strongly funk-influenced track, this release marked the first time in the band’s history that, in addition to EP and cassette tape formats, a CD single was also issued.
The first-press CD edition featured a specification that let buyers design the jacket freely, and the overall look was unified in a monochrome black.
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.
Classic and Hit Songs Special by Bands Active in the 1980s (91–100)
YES-YES-YESofukōsu
Off Course, regarded as a leading Japanese folk band, was active from 1967 to 1989 and released numerous hit songs.
Among their many classics, their 24th single, “YES -YES-YES,” was released in 1982.
Chosen as a single from the album “I LOVE YOU,” this track remains a beloved masterpiece that continues to be covered by many artists.
Sung by vocalist Kazumasa Oda in his clear, soaring high tone, “YES-YES-YES” is still cherished today as a timeless and captivating love song.
