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 Era of Idols and Kayōkyoku (111–120)
A Dangerous Pairsawada kenji
This is Kenji Sawada’s sixth single, a signature song that was a huge hit and represents the pop scene of the 1970s! He’s also famous by the nickname “Julie,” and his popularity never waned, even from his Group Sounds days with The Tigers.
This track perfectly suits him—a man who embodies a dangerous aura and the word “sexy.” No wonder it sold explosively.
My Dear EllieSazan Ōrusutāzu
This is the third single by Southern All Stars, released in 1979.
It became a major hit as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Fuzoroi no Ringo-tachi” (Uneven Apples).
Written and composed by Keisuke Kuwata, the song expresses love and regret toward a woman named Ellie, along with the desire to deepen their relationship.
Its lyrics, which skillfully portray bittersweet expressions and complex emotions, resonated with many listeners.
It reached No.
2 on the Oricon charts and held the top spot on The Best Ten for seven consecutive weeks.
It is regarded as the song that propelled Southern All Stars to superstardom.
Blending the sweetness and bitterness of love, this moving classic is one you’ll want to listen to when you wish to strengthen the bond with someone special.
School HeavenFingā 5
Speaking of Finger 5’s signature songs, this one is it.
Released in March 1974, its lyrics vividly capture the excitement and flutter of school life.
It has a charm that brings back bittersweet memories from our student days, and it continues to be loved by many.
The song portrays students competing for the seat next to the most beautiful girl in class, conveying pure feelings and desires over a light, catchy melody.
Finger 5’s songs often center on school romance, and this track is one of them.
Perhaps because of its familiarity, it’s still frequently heard today.
With an easy-to-follow call and response and a fun vibe, it’s a great choice when you want to liven things up at karaoke.
foreignerKUBOTA Saki
This was Saki Kubota’s debut single, released in 1979.
Its exotically tinged intro is striking, and it was featured in a Sanyo Electric color TV commercial.
While depicting the pain of heartbreak and the loneliness of starting over in a new place, it carries a hopeful message that time will heal emotional wounds.
Inspired by the Silk Road, the song—paired with Kubota’s beautiful vocals—captured the hearts of many and became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.
It’s a perfect track for when you want to immerse yourself in an exotic atmosphere or soothe the pain of a broken heart.
You May DreamSHEENA&THE ROKKETS
This is Sheena & The Rokkets’ second single, released in December 1979.
The song, which was also used in a Japan Airlines commercial, is a rock ’n’ roll track with a slightly punk vibe.
Sheena’s vocals, Ayukawa’s guitar, and the looks of the two of them—all of it felt incredibly cool.