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 60s (31–40)
Ruby RingTerao Akira
Mr.
Akira Terao, who has left behind numerous masterpieces as a renowned actor.
For those in their 60s, his image as a singer may be even stronger than his image as an actor.
Many were likely surprised that he wasn’t just a one-hit wonder, but kept releasing hits with an unwavering, cool musical style.
Ruby no Yubiwa is his biggest hit.
While the lowest note drops to a very low low G, there are solid moments of lift within its cool, understated mood—such as a key change toward the end.
Despite the modulation, the piece has a narrow vocal range, so you might even try raising the key on purpose and experimenting with a more powerful delivery different from the original.
First loveMurashita Kōzō
Kozo Murashita was a singer-songwriter who gained popularity for his highly original musical style that mixed New Music and folk songs.
Many men in their 60s were likely captivated by his melodic sensibility, which conveyed smoothness even within a kayōkyoku-like flow.
His song “Hatsukoi” is his biggest hit number.
Although its range is narrow, from mid1 F to mid2 G#, the chorus requires singing the high notes on the “tsu” consonant, so lowering the key by one step from your optimal key will likely give you the most stable pitch.
school daysPegī Hayama
“Gakusei Jidai” (Student Days) is a single released in 1964 by Peggy Hayama.
The song, modeled on Hayama’s own time at Aoyama Gakuin, became a million seller.
It was originally going to be titled “Daigaku Jidai” (University Days), but the title was changed to “Gakusei Jidai” (Student Days) on the grounds that not everyone goes to university.
Pineapple Princesstashiro midori
“Pineapple Princess” is the third single released by Midori Tashiro in 1961.
The original song is a Disney tune sung by American singer Annette Funicello.
Tashiro’s cover featured lyrics adapted to Japanese tastes and became a major hit.
A Sorrowful WishBito Isao
“Kanashiki Negai” (House of the Rising Sun) is a single by Isao Bito released in 1964.
It won the Toshiba Hit Award.
The song was performed by American jazz singer Nina Simone and has been covered by many artists.
The most famous version is by The Animals, which Isao Bito covered.
Ha-ha-haZa Rindo & Rindāzu
A lively pop tune by The Linds & Linders, released in August 1968, carried by a snappy rhythm and bright melody.
As one of the Kansai region’s representative Group Sounds acts, the song was featured in a popular TV commercial for Nobel Confectionery’s “Amand Kiss,” boosting its recognition even in the Tokyo metropolitan area.
As a signature number from a leading Kansai GS group, the single’s B-side includes the lyrical ballad “Four Days’ Love.” This track was later included in the January 2000 album “The Linds & Linders Meets The Youngers: Complete Singles,” winning over a new generation of fans.
Recommended for those who want to feel the spirit of the Group Sounds heyday or bask in the nostalgia of their youth.
With the setting sunZa Wairudowanzu
A refreshing melody that captures scenes shining against the blue sky makes this song especially memorable.
Drummer Yoshiaki Ueda takes the lead vocal, captivating listeners with his distinctive style of singing while playing.
Released in May 1967 as The Wild Ones’ third single, it’s also known for having lyrics written by all the members.
The bright, open sound of the 12-string electric guitar remains unfaded, a classic that symbolizes the golden age of Group Sounds.
It’s a track you’ll want to play on an evening drive or while spending time with friends.
The river flows.Nakasone Miki
“Kawa wa Nagareru” (The River Flows) is a single released in 1961 by Miki Nakasone.
It has become one of her signature songs.
The track won the Newcomer Encouragement Award at the Japan Record Awards.
In 2002, Haruko Hara of Southern All Stars covered the song.
Naples in the MoonlightMoriyama Kayoko
Tsukikage no Napoli (Naples in the Moonlight) is the debut single by Kayoko Moriyama, released in 1960.
It became a hit, selling 500,000 copies.
It is a Japanese cover of the song of the same name by Italian singer Mina.
The opening phrase, “Chintarerari Luna,” was particularly memorable.
Hey, PaulaTanabe Yasuo, Azusa Michiyo
Hey Paula is a single by Yasuo Tanabe and Michiyo Azusa, released by King Records in 1963.
It is a cover of the hit song by the American duo Paul and Paula.
The gentle back-and-forth love song between Tanabe and Azusa gained popularity and became a major hit.