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)
Sneaker BluesKondō Masahiko
It was released as his debut single in December 1980.
This was Masahiko Kondo’s debut single as a singer, following his acting debut in the TBS TV drama “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3B” (aired from October 1979 to March 1980).
It was the theme song for Toho’s Tanokin Super Hit Series Part 1, “Youth Graffiti: Sneaker Blues.”
High-Teen BoogieKondō Masahiko
This is the seventh single, released in June 1982.
It’s the theme song for the Toho film “Highteen Boogie.” Apparently it was composed and arranged by Tatsuro Yamashita, which I didn’t know.
I was in elementary school at the time, but it was on the Best Ten almost every week, and I watched it!
Masterpieces and hit songs of nostalgic Japanese pop from the 80s (101–110)
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.
First loveMurashita Kōzō
“Hatsukoi” (First Love) is the fourth single by Kozo Murashita, released in 1983.
It reached No.
3 on the Oricon charts.
The song has a folk style and sings about the bittersweetness of first love.
At the time the song became a hit, Murashita was suffering from hepatitis and was unable to appear on television.