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 from the 1980s (21–30)
MarionetteBOØWY
A single from the sixth album by BOØWY, the legendary rock band that has had a huge impact on today’s Japanese rock scene and still enjoys enduring popularity.
It became the band’s first No.
1 on the Oricon charts, and it’s widely known for the many cover versions by various artists, including a self-cover by vocalist Kyosuke Himuro.
Starting with an intro that plays the chorus melody on guitar, the song features a structure and energy that recall the prototype of rock sound in J-pop, shining with a timeless brilliance even today.
It’s a classic that any fan of Japanese rock should know.
Linda LindaTHE BLUE HEARTS
One of the signature songs by the punk rock band THE BLUE HEARTS, who debuted in the late 1980s.
Many listeners are likely moved by Hiroto Kōmoto’s powerful vocals.
The song’s appeal remains undimmed over time—it even lent its name to a film.
With lyrics that, though simple, sing of the will to protect what’s important, layered over an energetic sound, its exhilarating drive feels especially satisfying.
Released in May 1987 as their major-label debut single, it continues to be used in commercials and TV dramas more than 30 years later.
HURRY UP MODEBUCK-TICK
BUCK-TICK debuted in 1987.
Their signature songs include “Aku no Hana” and “JUPITER.” “HURRY UP MODE” is a track they released during their indie days, and fans had been calling for it to be reissued.
Even though this song is 30 years old, it still sounds incredibly cool, doesn’t it?
A flawless rock ’n’ rollerarajin
A self-proclaimed rock star youth, obsessing over looks and behavior, portrays his not-so-successful love life with a unique sense of humor.
The world evoking the youth culture of the time—complete with tsuppari delinquents and Harajuku’s Takenoko-zoku—lovingly depicts rebellion against society and bold self-assertion.
Featured on the album “ALADDIN VS Aladdin,” the song reached No.
5 on TBS’s The Best Ten in February 1982.
Later, a parody version of the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Ijiwaru Otetsudai-san,” cementing its status as a cross-generational favorite.
Limit LoversSHOW-YA
In the late 1980s, SHOW-YA brought a fresh wave of female power to Japan’s rock scene.
This song is one of their signature tracks; it was also used in a Showa Shell Sekiyu commercial, which helped catapult the band to major popularity.
Released in February 1989 as their eighth single, it is also included on the album “Outerlimits.” The sound balances intensity and delicacy, highlighted by Terada’s expansive vocals.
The protagonist’s passionate yearning for love blends brilliantly with the band’s heavy metal style.
It’s a perfect track for a drive or for singing at karaoke.
I’M GETTIN’ BLUEZIGGY
ZIGGY debuted in 1987.
They celebrated their 30th anniversary last year and are still active today.
The only member remaining from the original lineup is vocalist Juichi Morishige.
It seems there were quite a few disputes within the band as well.
Close your eyes and come here.BARBEE BOYZ
From the very beginning, the soothing sound of the saxophone starts to fill the space.
Over it, Kyoko’s soulful voice layers in, guiding listeners into the world of BARBEE BOYS.
Released in January 1989, this song was also used in Shiseido’s “TREND·Y” commercial, cementing the band’s popularity.
It peaked at No.
8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and sold approximately 168,000 copies.
The lyrics, themed around passionate love, are characterized by a blend of poignancy and intensity.
Phrases that express emotional fervor, along with words symbolizing the sweetness and transience of romance, resonate deeply with listeners.