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Old songs from the Showa to Heisei eras: a collection of timeless classics loved across generations

These days, thanks to the widespread use of Spotify and Apple Music, people of all ages can easily listen to a wide variety of songs.

Social media platforms like TikTok have also sparked an increase in older songs becoming revival hits among young people.

In this article, we’ll be showcasing a selection of hit tracks from the Showa and Heisei eras all at once!

There are plenty of timeless masterpieces that haven’t lost their charm, so take this opportunity to give them another listen.

Old songs from the Showa to Heisei eras. A collection of timeless classics loved across generations (91–100)

Sōemonchō Bluesheiwa katsuji to daakuhosu

Soemoncho Blues (Katsuji Heiwa and the Dark Horse)
Sōemonchō Bluesheiwa katsuji to daakuhosu

Released in 1972 (Showa 47).

Its popularity gradually grew from the entertainment district in Sakai, Osaka, and it became a hit, selling over two million.

Thanks to this song, Soemoncho became known nationwide, and it’s said that Katsuji Heiwa received a letter of appreciation from the neighborhood association.

I think the crisp singing style favored by people in Osaka and the up-tempo melody resonated with the nightlife crowd.

The singing style somehow sounds similar to the old Shinichi Mori.

Red Sweet PeaMatsuda Seiko

Seiko Matsuda “Red Sweet Pea” (from Seikoland: Budokan Live ’83)
Red Sweet PeaMatsuda Seiko

A classic song depicting love in full spring bloom was released as a single by Seiko Matsuda in 1982.

Composed by Yumi Matsutoya with lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto, this track marked a turning point in Matsuda’s career.

To accommodate her strained voice from a grueling schedule, a slow ballad style was adopted.

The lyrics delicately portray springtime scenes and the bittersweetness of love, resonating with many listeners.

This work has long been cherished as one of Seiko Matsuda’s signature songs.

It’s especially recommended for listening during the season when you can feel spring’s arrival.

Your NameOrii Shigeko

Film: Your Name, Showa 28 (1953) Keiji Sada / Keiko Kishi; Song: Shigeru Orai; Lyrics: Kazuo Kikuta; Music: Yuji Koseki
Your NameOrii Shigeko

This is the theme song from a film that was a huge hit about 60 years ago.

The part about leaving things to fate seems to have something in common with the 2016 film Your Name., but it appears there’s no connection at all.

For people above a certain age, when they hear “Your Name,” I imagine this older film is the one that comes to mind.

Yearning for youFuranku Nagai

The original song dates back to 1922 (Taisho 11), making it very old, but it was given a rhythmic arrangement and released in 1961, becoming a hit.

It has exactly the atmosphere of mood kayō, resulting in a romantic piece.

The two were young.Ozaki Kiyohiko

Released in March 1972, this song is a wonderful piece that lightly conveys the mood of a sorrowful love within a light, cheerful melody.

Kiyohiko Ozaki, who turned “Mata Au Hi Made” into a massive hit with his overwhelming vocal power, has countless hidden masterpieces, in my opinion.

draft (cold air seeping through gaps)Sugi Ryōtarō

This song, with its nihilistic vocals tinged with mature allure and melancholy, is filled with a gentle kindness that softly teaches warmth to those who’ve been betrayed and can no longer trust, so they can live humanly again.

It’s a Showa-era classic that will surely bring solace to modern people who are easily hurt by human relationships.

HERO (The time to become a hero is now)Kai Band

[Kai Band] “HERO (When It’s Time to Be a Hero, That Time Is Now)” Full ver.
HERO (The time to become a hero is now)Kai Band

This is a signature song by Kai Band that was featured in a watch commercial and even reached No.

1.

Back then, there was a trend among rock and new music artists to avoid appearing on music programs.

Kai Band, too, would only appear via remote broadcasts from separate locations and wouldn’t speak directly with the MC—an approach to appearances that seems a bit unusual today.