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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- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic ’80s (41–50)
Equator Girl: Dokki!Yamashita Kumiko
“Ecuador Komachi Doki” is the sixth single by Kumiko Yamashita, released in 1982.
It reached No.
2 on the Oricon charts and was used in a Kanebo Cosmetics TV commercial.
Kumiko Yamashita was known for her intense live performances and was nicknamed “Kumiko who gets everyone on their feet.”
Single AgainTakeuchi Mariya
Mariya Takeuchi’s “Single Again” was released in September 1989, reached No.
2 on the weekly Oricon chart, and ranked No.
22 on the Oricon year-end chart.
It placed No.
8 on The Best Ten, and the following year, in 1990, it ranked No.
50 on the Oricon chart.
FriendsRebekka
This song features an uptempo dance-rock sound with heavy use of synthesizers and the captivating, transparent vocals of NOKKO.
Written based on bittersweet heartbreak experienced in adolescence, it boasts a distinctive, dynamic melody that makes it highly addictive.
Released as a single in 1985, it was used as the ending theme for the Nippon TV drama “Half Potato na Oretachi,” reaching No.
3 on the Oricon weekly chart.
In the late 1990s, a new remix version was produced as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Lipstick,” winning overwhelming support from a younger generation.
It’s perfect for nighttime drives or moments when you want to reminisce about youthful memories, and its positive message, which blows away feelings of heartache, is deeply moving.
memory glasseshorie atsushi
Memory Glass is the debut single by Jun Horie, released in 1981.
It sold 500,000 copies and reached No.
3 on the Oricon chart.
Horie’s androgynous looks and voice drew attention.
Although he had no other standout hits and is sometimes labeled a one-hit wonder, this song is a masterpiece.
BohemianKatsuragi Yuki
“Bohemian” is the 8th single by Yuki Katsuragi, released in 1983.
It reached No.
3 on the Oricon chart.
The song is a cover of “Bohemian,” originally sung by Yuko Otomo.
It became a hit and her signature song because Katsuragi’s powerful, husky voice suited it well.
Close your eyes and come here.BARBEE BOYS
The male-and-female vocals—and the slightly mature, back-and-forth, dialogue-like lyrics—made my heart race.
Their music started gaining popularity in the late ’80s, and even before releasing this song, the vocalist KONTA was appearing in TV dramas and actively working outside of music.
Thanks to those efforts, “Me o Tojite Oide yo,” released after the drama ended, became a huge hit.
High School LullabyImokin Torio
This group, Imo Kin Trio—Yoshio, Waruo, and Futsuo—consists of these three members and is known as Imo Kin Trio.
In August 1981 they released “High School Lullaby,” which became the biggest hit among novelty projects, achieving million-seller status with a total of 1.6 million copies sold.
Stardust StageChekkāzu
The title track was used as the theme song for the TBS serial drama “Uchi no Ko ni Kagitte…”.
It was released as the fourth single in August 1984.
In the spring of 1985, it was also selected as the entrance march for the 57th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
Street-corner TwilightShaneruzu
It’s their third single, released in February 1981.
I believe it was also included on the album “Heart & Soul.” The a cappella intro wasn’t originally planned, but it was reportedly inserted on the spur of the moment during recording at Masayuki Suzuki’s suggestion.
Only for youShonentai
It was their sixth single, released in June 1987.
I believe it was Shonentai’s first slow ballad.
It served as the theme song for the Toho film “19—Nineteen,” starring Shonentai, as well as the theme for “PLAYZONE ’87 TIME-19.”