A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
The 1970s, which began with the Osaka Expo, were a tumultuous decade of change, marked by the reversion of Okinawa, the first oil shock, and the opening of the first McDonald’s and Seven-Eleven stores in Japan.
In this article, we’ll introduce hit Japanese songs that energized the music scene during that dynamic era!
Many of these tracks have continued to be featured in commercials and more long after their release, so even younger listeners may find many of them familiar.
Whether nostalgic for those who lived through the era or fresh for younger generations, please enjoy these hit songs from the 1970s!
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Compilation of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the ’70s (41–50)
At the coffee shopabe shizue
It was released in 1973 as Shizue Abe’s debut single.
The lyrics were written by Yū Aku and the music composed by Takashi Miki, and it became Abe’s biggest hit.
With this song, she won the New Artist Award at the 15th Japan Record Awards, among numerous other newcomer awards in that year’s music award races.
A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s (51–60)
The Splendor of the PrairieAgunesu Chan
It was released in 1973 as Agnes Chan’s third single.
The song’s title is derived from Elia Kazan’s 1961 film “Splendor in the Grass,” and total sales surpassed one million copies.
It won the New Artist Award at the 15th Japan Record Awards and was also chosen as the entrance march for the 46th Spring National High School Baseball Tournament.
Angel’s lipsSakurada Junko
Released in 1975 as Junko Sakurada’s 12th single.
The lyrics were written by Yū Aku and the music composed by Koichi Morita.
It reached No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and won the Broadcast Music Award at the 6th Japan Kayō Awards.
It’s a song that showcases Junko Sakurada’s exceptional vocal ability.
Listening to OliviaAnri
A melody that gently envelops the lingering ache of a bittersweet romance, paired with refined musicianship, resonates deeply in the heart.
The lyrics, which carefully depict a woman healing her delicate emotions after a breakup while listening to Olivia Newton-John’s songs, have struck a chord with many.
With Anri’s clear, translucent vocals giving the piece a sophisticated, urban feel, it was released in November 1978 and included on the album “Anri.” In 2008, it was also featured as an insert song in the Nippon TV drama “Saito-san,” cementing its status as a timeless classic loved across generations.
This warm ballad offers comfort to those trying to recover from the pain of heartbreak and to anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.
Tears of the SunAnzai Maria
“Namida no Taiyo” is the debut single by Maria Anzai, released in 1973.
It is a cover of “Crying in a Storm” by Emy Jackson.
The song won the New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards.
Maria Anzai, who was a quarter German, had a look that matched the song, contributing to its success.
A world without youZa Bībāzu
A masterpiece woven from a psychedelic rock sound and a wistful melody, this is The Beavers’ second single, released in November 1967.
Its heartrending tune vividly portrays the pain of a broken heart.
Showcasing beautifully balanced twin vocals and the twin-guitar virtuosity of Hideki Ishima and Masayuki Hirai, the track reached No.
57 on the Oricon chart.
The band also appeared on the TV program “Young 720” that same year.
It’s a song to play on nights when you want to soothe a love-broken heart, or on a quiet afternoon when you’re nostalgic for your youth.
Song of Hakushon Daimaoshimazaki yuri
Starting with adorable opening sound effects, the friendly lyrics vividly conjure the image of a great demon king emerging from a magic jar.
His character—honest, quick to tears, and full of human warmth—is wonderfully portrayed, making this a heartwarming piece that children and adults alike can enjoy.
Yuri Shimazaki’s bright, soaring vocals further enhance the comedic storytelling atmosphere.
Released by Nippon Columbia in October 1969, it gained popularity as the opening theme for a Fuji TV–broadcast anime airing at the same time.
It’s a perfect track for moments when everyone wants to have fun together—like family time on holidays or children’s events.