Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
A special feature on Japanese hit songs that colored the 1980s! These include hits by artists who went on to have a major impact on later eras and by idols who enjoyed charismatic popularity—songs so beloved that many people can still sing along today.
Many timeless classics remain popular, especially revival hits and Showa-era kayōkyoku that have gained traction among younger generations even in the Reiwa era and beyond.
That said, when you think, “I want to listen to Japanese music from the ’80s,” it can be hard to decide where to start.
We’ve put together a selection focused on massively successful hits that we recommend you listen to first in those moments.
Use this as a companion to reminisce about memories from back then or to discover new music!
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Classic and Hit J-Pop Songs from the Nostalgic ’80s (91–100)
RunawayShaneruzu
It was a debut single released in February 1980.
It was originally recorded with only one verse as the commercial song for Pioneer’s boombox “Runaway,” but after it was decided to be released on record, it was produced as a single.
Strawberry TimeMatsuda Seiko
This is the 23rd single, released in April 1987.
Seiko Matsuda, who married Masaki Kanda and gave birth to their daughter Sayaka, drew attention by releasing it for the first time in one year and ten months since 1985’s “DANCING SHOES.”
Sentimental and DearTahara Toshihiko
It was released in June 1980 (Showa 55).
It’s the debut single.
The original song is said to be “NEW YORK CITY NIGHTS,” included on American singer Leif Garrett’s 1978 album “Feel The Need” (released in Japan as “Prince no Shūmatsu”).
dragonflyNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s “Tonbo” was released in October 1988 and became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 on The Best Ten and holding the No.
1 spot on the Oricon charts for five consecutive weeks.
It ranked third on Oricon’s year-end chart, with Nagabuchi’s momentum showing no signs of slowing down.
Runnerbakufū suranpu
Originally, they were a band with more extreme songs and performances, leaning toward a comic-band style.
However, when the record label pushed for “songs that would sell a bit more,” one member rebelled and left the band.
This song was directed at that member.
It went on to become a remarkable hit.
FUNK FUJIYAMAkome kome CLUB
Kome Kome Club’s “FUNK FUJIYAMA” was released in October 1989 and reached No.
2 on the weekly Oricon chart.
In the 1990 year-end Oricon rankings, it placed 93rd.
“FUNK FUJIYAMA” is a knockout blow from Kome Kome Club themed around quintessential Japan.
Happy! Fun! I love it!DREAMS COME TRUE
It was featured as the CM song for Ezaki Glico’s “Pocky” and also became the theme song for the film “Yamada Baba ni Hanataba wo.” It’s the third single, released in September 1989.
It’s a very cute song—I love it—and back then everyone used to sing it a lot at karaoke.