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.
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Old songs from the Showa to Heisei eras: A collection of timeless classics loved across generations (41–50)
Boat SongYashiro Aki
One of the quintessential masterpieces of the Showa era, this gem of a ballad resonates in the hearts of many.
Sung by Aki Yashiro, whose unique phrasing and emotionally rich voice are its allure, the song was released in May 1979.
Its lyrics vividly depict the atmosphere of an izakaya, delicately expressing a lingering longing for a former lover.
The piece became even more widely remembered when a scene featuring Yashiro herself singing it was included in the 1981 film “Station.” It’s the perfect song for savoring a quiet drink or immersing yourself in nostalgic memories.
Old songs from the Showa to Heisei eras: A collection of timeless classics loved across generations (51–60)
You Are the One Who Rings That BellWada Akiko
When it comes to classic songs from the Showa era, you can’t leave this one out! Known as one of Akiko Wada’s signature numbers, this was her 11th single, released in March 1972.
With lyrics by Yu Aku and music by Koichi Morita, it’s a powerful kayōkyoku piece highlighted by Wada’s soulful vocals.
While it explores themes of personal inner turmoil and loneliness, it also conveys a strong sense of finding hope.
Over the years, this song has been a source of support for people living through difficult times.
Truly, it’s a masterpiece that has continued to be loved across eras—from Showa to Heisei and now Reiwa.
Surely more than anyone else in the worldNagayama Miho
Released in 1992, this duet by Miho Nakayama and WANDS gained attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Dareka ga Kanojo o Aishiteru” (“Someone Loves Her”).
Their sweet yet heartrending vocals leave a strong impression, and the love story—beginning with imagery that evokes the end of summer—strikes a chord.
Its message of a fateful reunion and the resolve to keep dreaming with a passion hotter than anyone’s blends perfectly with the drama’s narrative.
The song was also a commercial success, topping the Oricon weekly singles chart and selling over one million copies within just 20 days of its release.
Even now, thanks to frequent use on television and numerous artist covers, it remains widely recognized across generations.
Highly recommended for those who want to resonate with powerful feelings for a loved one and the pure determination to pursue one’s ideals.
12th graderFunaki Kazuo
This song, which gained popularity for its vibrant, free-spirited vocals that conveyed the spirited heart of youth, became a pioneering graduation anthem.
It depicts students at the end of their high school days fondly looking back on those times and finding hope as they set out toward a new chapter of life.
My teacher is feverishHarada Jun
Jun Harada, known as a singer and actor.
When it comes to his signature songs, isn’t “My Teacher Is Fever” the one that comes to mind? It also left a strong impression as the theme song for the drama “Netchu Jidai” and the variety show “The Most Useful School in the World.” With that unforgettable, catchy chorus, the song remains beloved by many even today.
Incidentally, in recent years, versions with newly updated backtracks and remix editions have also been released.
Ruby RingTerao Akira
Starting with its light, funky cutting guitar, this AOR-flavored song became popular as sophisticated, urban music for adults.
For the generation that watched The Best Ten, it’s also unforgettable that it set the show’s longest-running record by staying at No.
1 for 12 consecutive weeks.
Sweet MemoriesMatsuda Seiko
When it comes to iconic songs of the Showa era, many people probably think of this one by Seiko Matsuda.
Released in August 1983, the song originally appeared as a B-side, but it quickly became famous after being featured in a Suntory CAN Beer commercial.
Its gentle melody pairs beautifully with Matsuda’s clear vocals, and if you take your time and listen closely, it’s sure to soothe the fatigue of the day.
The lyrics, which recount the memories of a bittersweet romance, are something anyone can relate to.
It’s said that this is one of Seiko Matsuda’s personal favorites, and it is often performed at her concerts and dinner shows.