Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 1960s
Japan in the 1960s was a tumultuous era: right in the midst of the so-called “period of rapid economic growth,” hailed as the Miracle of the East, with developments like the Tokyo Olympics and the Osaka World Expo.
In the music scene, beyond the frenzy surrounding The Beatles’ visit to Japan, there were many epoch-making events—such as Kyu Sakamoto’s classic “Ue o Muite Arukō” topping the U.S.
charts under the title “SUKIYAKI.”
In this article, we’ll introduce nostalgic Japanese pop songs that colored Japan in the ’60s.
Enjoy these beloved classics—from kayōkyoku and folk songs to Group Sounds (GS)—that remain popular even with today’s younger generation!
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Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 1960s (1–10)
Blue Light Yokohamaishida ayumi
A hit song that portrays the bittersweet scenes of lovers against the nightscape of Yokohama.
Released in December 1968, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart and sold over 1.5 million copies.
It is the signature song that established Ayumi Ishida’s career, and it marked her first appearance at the 20th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
For composer Kyohei Tsutsumi, it was also his breakout work and his first Oricon weekly No.
1.
The lyrics are memorable for overlaying the night views of Yokohama and Kawasaki’s industrial zones with the beauty of Cannes in France, creating a captivating, exotic atmosphere reminiscent of the Mediterranean.
This classic beautifully expresses the feelings of an adult woman in sweet love, and is recommended for those who want to enjoy a romantic time with a lover while gazing at the night skyline.
Forbidden LoveMoriyama Ryoko
This song is hailed as a masterpiece among 1960s folk numbers.
Its lyrics, which capture the ache of unrequited love, and its moving melody have touched countless hearts and continue to be cherished today.
Released in March 1969, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly singles chart.
It was also performed at the 20th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, swiftly becoming one of Ryoko Moriyama’s signature songs.
Total sales exceeded 800,000 copies, and it won the Lyricist Award at the 11th Japan Record Awards.
It’s the perfect tune for those troubled by love or who believe in pure affection.
It’s also a wonderful choice to listen to alone on a quiet night.
Young PeopleZa Burodosaito Fō
A masterpiece that vividly portrays the hopes and anxieties of young people in the 1960s, this is The Broadside Four’s signature work.
Set to a simple yet powerful acoustic sound, it sings of youth who keep moving forward toward the future.
Released as a single in April 1966, it was also included on an album of the same name in September of that year.
The song was used as the theme for a Fuji TV drama series of the same title and became a major hit.
As a landmark of folk music, it had a profound impact on the music scene that followed.
It’s a highly recommended track for those standing at a crossroads in life or about to take a new step forward.
Classic and Hit Japanese Pop Songs from the Nostalgic 1960s (11–20)
White Swingbiriibanban
Debuting in the 1960s as pioneers of folk music, Billy BanBan’s first single captivated many with its warm melody and heartfelt lyrics.
Showcasing the seamless harmonies unique to a brother duo, the song entrusts a swing with the memories and emotions the two shared in days gone by.
Released in 1969, it became a major hit, selling 150,000 copies and marking a turning point in their musical career.
While rooted in folk, Billy BanBan’s music features a distinctive style that also incorporates elements of Japanese kayōkyoku.
It’s a perfect song for when you want to bask in nostalgia or reflect on relationships with those you hold dear.
Love only for youZa Taigāsu
Are you familiar with the classic hit released by The Tigers, the reigning champions of Japan’s Group Sounds scene in the 1960s? Released in January 1968, this fourth single was created by a stellar team: lyrics by Jun Hashimoto and composition/arrangement by Koichi Sugiyama.
Infused with a pure and passionate message of love, the song remains one of The Tigers’ signature works, cherished by many to this day.
Its lyrics, carried by a sweet and wistful melody, express the mutual trust in love between two people, resonating deeply with listeners.
It’s also a great recommendation for younger generations, as it evokes the innocence of first love.
Love VacationZa Pīnattsu
Let us introduce a classic hit by a beloved singing duo that defined the 1960s.
Its light, joyful melody and lyrics depicting sweet moments of romance are irresistible.
From a passionate kiss on the beach to whispered promises, the song captures a couple’s special time together.
Released in April 1963, it won the Arrangement Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards.
It was also performed at the 14th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year, creating a major buzz.
The era’s growing spread of television and record players may have helped boost its popularity.
It’s a perfect soundtrack for a summer drive or a seaside date.
Hello, baby.Azusa Michiyo
In 1963, a song celebrating love and hope for a tiny life was released.
Michiyo Azusa’s gentle, warm voice expresses unconditional love for a newborn.
With lyrics by Rokusu Eiko and music by Hachidai Nakamura, this piece is widely cherished as one of Azusa’s signature songs.
It was adapted into films with different storylines by Toho and Nikkatsu, with the song used as the theme in both.
It has continued to be loved across generations, appearing in places such as the popular segment “Gochi ni Narimasu!” on the Nippon TV variety show Gurutere Ninety-Nine.
This is a recommended song for families celebrating a baby’s birth and for anyone who wants to feel the preciousness of new life.