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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- 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.
Featured Classics & Hit Songs by Bands from the 1980s (31–40)
Private HeroineREBECCA
This is a signature song by REBECCA, a band that was active in the late 1980s.
The lyrics, which portray the pain of heartbreak and the struggles of love, are particularly memorable.
NOKKO’s lively vocals and the danceable melody are very appealing.
It was included on the album REBECCA IV ~Maybe Tomorrow~, released in November 1985, which became a million-seller.
If you experienced that era in real time, you can probably still hum it today.
With its cool performance and vocals, this is a great chance to give it another listen.
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.
On Lucian HillRED WARRIORS
The legendary band RED WARRIORS led by Diamond Yukai.
They were really cool back then, and they’re still cool even now! Their biggest hit, “On Russian Hill,” remains a beloved number to this day, even being covered live by GLAY.
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.
Time BombUP-BEAT
Released in September 1987 on the album “inner ocean,” this track drew particular attention as one of its most striking songs.
It’s an energetic rock number whose lyrics channel a spirit of defiance against the times and a strong will for self-expression.
With distinctive turns of phrase, it conveys the importance of holding on to dreams and ambition.
Showcasing UP-BEAT’s musicality that brought a fresh breeze to Japan’s rock scene of the era, it’s a perfect recommendation for those who want to stand by their convictions or make a bold statement to the world.
Classics and Hit Songs by Bands from the 1980s (41–50)
DEAR FRIENDSPERSONZ
PERSONZ was formed in 1983 and debuted in 1987.
They have never disbanded and have continued their activities to this day.
Their signature songs include ‘Dear Friends’ and ‘7COLORS.’ ‘Dear Friends’ in particular was a big hit.
Mary AnnTHE ALFEE
Formed in 1973 and debuting the following year, Japanese rock band THE ALFEE’s 16th single, “Merī Ann” (“Mary Ann”), is the band’s longest-running hit.
It’s a song that most people in Japan have likely heard at least once.
THE ALFEE consists of three members: Sakurai on vocals and bass, Sakazaki on vocals and acoustic guitar, and Takamizawa on vocals and electric guitar.
Featuring lyrical, poetic lyrics and beautiful choral work, “Mary Ann” was released in 1983 and has since been cherished as a song that continues to be widely loved to this day.
