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.
- Nostalgic yet fresh!? Classic masterpieces of Japanese rock from the 1970s and 1980s
- Debut song of a Japanese band from the 80s
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
- 1980s: Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Classic and Hit Songs
- 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
- Masterpieces and hit songs of 80s Japanese pop (kayōkyoku)
- A collection of nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1980s that still linger in our ears
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
- 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.
Classic and Hit Songs Special by Bands Active in the 1980s (91–100)
MPRINCESS PRINCESS
This is the B-side track to Princess Princess’s single “Diamonds,” released in 1989, but it later became the first song in CD single history to sell over a million copies on its own.
The lyrics, written by drummer Kyoko Tomita based on her experience of heartbreak, are universally relatable.
Combined with Kaori Kishitani’s clear, expansive vocals, the song becomes a deeply moving classic.
The chorus line “You are only in my fantasy” is especially memorable, and every listen brings a surge of bittersweet emotion.
It’s the perfect song for healing the pain of a breakup or when you want to remember someone special.
half run-upTM NETWORK
TM NETWORK debuted in 1984.
Their signature songs include “GET WILD,” but I feel that in their early days they had many songs that were very simple yet profound.
Synthesizers tend to produce a cold, mechanical sound, but this was a warm, gentle song that was popular.
A showcase of classic and hit songs by bands active in the 1980s (101–110)
Chaco’s Seaside StorySazan Ōrusutāzu
Since their debut, Southern All Stars have cemented unshakable popularity with a singular musical style no one can imitate, and they’re also known as a band that symbolizes summer in the J-pop scene.
This is their 14th single.
With a sound that evokes kayōkyoku and 1960s group sounds, and vocals by Keisuke Kuwata delivered with Toshihiko Tahara in mind, the track showcases the band’s playful spirit throughout.
Its wistful melody and vividly picturable lyrics complete the song’s world, making it an essential classic when discussing the Japanese music scene of the 1980s.
To be happyFLYING KIDS
FLYING KIDS, led by vocalist Takashi Hamazaki, is a legendary band that made a triumphant debut after winning the very first Grand Prix on Ikaten.
Their song “Shiawase de Aru You ni” was released in 1990, but you can’t talk about the 1980s Ikaten boom without mentioning it, so I’ve included it here as well.
Tearful BirthdayHOUND DOG
HOUND DOG debuted in 1980.
Their signature songs include “ff (Fortissimo)” and “ONLY LOVE,” but among fans, “Namida no Birthday” has also maintained strong, lasting popularity.
Otomo’s husky voice feels like he’s wringing out his emotions, making it a spine-tingling track to listen to.
Runnerbakufū suranpu
This is the 12th single by the rock band Bakufu Slump, who have produced numerous hits with lyrics that evoke youth and catchy tunes, starting with “Under the Big Onion ~Harukanaru Omoi.” The lyrics were originally written for bassist Hojin Egawa, who left the band due to disagreements over its direction and policies, but—as the title suggests—it also conveys a fresh image with a track-and-field backdrop.
Despite its technically complex structure with multiple key changes throughout, the band’s pop sensibility keeps it from feeling overtly intricate.
With its driving tempo and catchy melody that lift your spirits, it’s a quintessential number representing the 1980s.
I’m smitten with you.Yellow Magic Orchestra
A 1983 YMO track that brought a fresh breeze to the music scene.
While preserving the innovative spirit of technopop, it’s an ambitious work that blends in an idol-like charm.
It was also used in a Kanebo Cosmetics commercial, generating major buzz.
The lyrics lightly portray a summer romance while carrying a tinge of melancholy that leaves a strong impression.
Vivid images—like a line dance of ripples and the voltage of a gaze—resonate with the listener.
The song peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon charts, becoming YMO’s best-selling single.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to feel the flutter of love or reminisce about summer memories.