Nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1970s: the golden age of idols and kayōkyoku (Japanese pop songs)
What songs come to mind when you think of Japanese hit songs from the 1970s?
Those who lived through that era in real time probably recall a wide range of hits.
With the spread of color television, people began to enjoy music from a visual perspective as well.
The 1970s are often called the golden age of kayōkyoku and idols.
Even generations who weren’t yet born will find many familiar, approachable songs that make you think, “Hey, I’ve heard this before!”
Please enjoy these captivating hit songs from the 1970s!
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Nostalgic Japanese Hit Songs of the 1970s: The Golden Age of Idols and Kayōkyoku (91–100)
Time, stop.Yazawa Eikichi
It’s an immortal classic from the ’70s, isn’t it? Eikichi Yazawa has pumped out plenty of hits, but this song is definitely one of his signature tracks.
Under the blazing sun, on a hot beach in a quiet summer… even now, when that season comes around, I get an irresistible urge to listen.
He’s the only artist who can sing this song with this vibe—our great “Eiyan.” And of course, it was a million-seller back then.
SEPTEMBERTakeuchi Mariya
Released in 1979, this song became Mariya Takeuchi’s first smash hit, peaking at No.
39 on the Oricon chart and earning her the Best New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards.
The lyrics were written by Takashi Matsumoto, the music was composed by Tetsuji Hayashi, and the chorus and chorus arrangement were by EPO.
While it could be seen as marketing her in the style of a New Music–influenced idol singer, it also helped shape the concept of Mariya Takeuchi as a singer-songwriter.
From the northern innMiyako Harumi
Harumi Miyako, who is now a major enka singer, ranked third in the annual chart for 1976.
Even when she was young, she had a commanding presence and delivered a magnificent singing voice.
That’s probably why she remains popular today.
Her music has a quality that resonates even with young women.
purplemurahachibu
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A track from Murahachibu, a rock band that continues to influence Japan’s underground scene.
It’s also famous that guitarist Char, after listening to the Sex Pistols, remarked, “They’re just like Murahachibu.” The impulsive guitar and the vocals that scream as if scales don’t exist are indescribably rock and incredibly cool.
bridehashida norihiko to kuraimakkusu
One of the classic songs from the 1970s folk era.
It was the group’s debut single and reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts at the time.
At first glance, it seems like a cheerful travelogue about a woman taking a train to get married, but in fact it’s a song about eloping with a lover who was opposed by those around them.
It must be an action taken with a great deal of determination.
Despite that, the bright melody keeps it from feeling sad at all.
