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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A Collection of Nostalgic Hit Songs and Classics from the ’70s (1–10)
As time goes bysawada kenji
A signature song by Kenji Sawada that portrays sweet romance and the passage of time.
It poignantly sings of love and parting between a man and a woman.
Released in August 1975, it was used as an insert song for the TBS drama “Akuma no Yōna Aitsu” (“That Devilish Guy”).
It topped the Oricon weekly chart for five consecutive weeks and became a major hit, selling a total of 916,000 copies.
Sawada’s deeply emotional vocals resonate powerfully with listeners.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear when you need to soothe the pain of heartbreak or reminisce about someone special.
Take a moment to savor this timeless classic that continues to be loved across generations.
Galaxy Express 999Godaigo
Speaking of Godiego’s signature songs, this is the one—released in July 1979 and widely known as the theme for an animated film based on Leiji Matsumoto’s work.
It was commissioned by a film producer who, after seeing their live performance beloved by audiences of all ages, asked them to create it.
The lyrics, interweaving English and Japanese, strongly reflect themes of hope, adventure, and growth.
The shifting melody of the chorus captivates listeners and delivers a fresh sense of wonder in any era.
This piece can be called a song that should be passed down across generations, one that gives us the courage and determination to overcome past hardships and carve out a new future.
Playback part 2Yamaguchi Momoe
In 1978, as a wave of young singers made their debuts, Momoe Yamaguchi’s voice resonated throughout Japan.
This work, which portrays the feelings of a woman living freely and unrestrained, captured many hearts with its distinctive lyrics and staging.
The scene transitions that make use of silent pauses within the song were an unusual experiment at the time.
The “crimson Porsche” is depicted as a symbol of freedom, inviting various interpretations.
Skillfully expressing complex romantic emotions, this song has also become a karaoke staple.
Give it a listen when you want to reflect on your feelings while out for a drive.
Mr. Summertimesaakasu
When it comes to songs that colored the summers of the 1970s, this track by Circus immediately comes to mind.
Adapted into Japanese from French lyrics, it skyrocketed in popularity after being used in Kanebo’s summer campaign.
Though it’s a mood ballad that expresses a woman’s regret over lost love, its refreshing harmonies and melody have become a staple of the season.
Released in March 1978, it was a massive hit, topping the Oricon singles chart.
It’s the perfect song for reminiscing about summer memories or as background music for a drive.
Why not give it a listen and let it take you back to those nostalgic summer days?
Light Blue RainYagami Junko
A number released in September 1978 by Junko Yagami, distinguished by its clear, sweeping melody and crystalline high notes.
The lyrics, which nostalgically recall a lost love, portray memories of gentle, peaceful days alongside the loneliness and sorrow of having lost them.
The shifting emotions, expressed through imagery of rain, leave a strong impression and resonate deeply with listeners.
The song became a major breakthrough following her appearance on the popular TV show “The Best Ten,” marking a turning point in Yagami’s career.
It’s a captivating track you’ll want to add to your karaoke repertoire, and it continues to be loved across generations.
Journey of the Heartchūrippu
Released in 1973, Tulip’s third single brought the band their first major hit.
Featuring guitarist Tatsuya Himeno’s sweet vocals, the song reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart five months after its release and became a smash hit, selling about 870,000 copies.
Its lyrics, depicting a farewell to a loved one and a new departure, resonated with many listeners and beautifully express both the poignancy and hope of youth.
The song has become a staple in encores, known for the audience’s distinctive call-and-response.
It has also been used on TV programs and in commercials, and has been covered by many artists.
A song that captures the feelings of young people pursuing their dreams, it’s perfect for anyone about to take a new step forward.
Suddenly, SinbadSazan Ōrusutāzu
Southern All Stars’ debut single is a youthful love song set on a summer seaside.
Its light, upbeat rhythm and distinctive lyrics playfully portray the romantic back-and-forth of young people.
Released in June 1978, the song, together with Keisuke Kuwata’s unique vocals, brought a fresh breeze to the music scene.
The lyrics, evocative of the Shonan coastline, skillfully capture the quickened heartbeat of youth in love.
It’s also a karaoke favorite.
Perfect for seaside summer dates or when you want to reminisce about your younger days—highly recommended for anyone in the mood for a touch of nostalgia.