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 Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic ’80s (41–50)
Riverside HotelInoue Yosui
Riverside Hotel is a single by Yosui Inoue released in 1982.
It’s still frequently sung at karaoke today.
While the lyrics are complex and open to various interpretations, the song itself is favored for its moody, laid-back style.
Masterpieces and Hit Songs of Nostalgic Japanese Pop from the ’80s (51–60)
Goodbye to sorrowanzenchitai
It is the ninth single, released in June 1985.
In 1993, it was chosen as the theme song for Kirin Beer’s “Aki Aji” commercial.
Later, in 2006, an arranged cover version by Donna Burke was used in an NTT West commercial.
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.”
Christmas EveYamashita Tatsuro
“Christmas Eve” is the 12th single by Tatsuro Yamashita, released in 1983.
Although it initially performed modestly, peaking at No.
44 on the Oricon charts, it became a huge hit after being used in a JR Tokai commercial in 1988 and went on to reach No.
1 on Oricon in 1989.
It has since become a classic Christmas song.
white parasolMatsuda Seiko
It’s the seventh single, released in July 1981.
Apparently, it was the first song in The Best Ten’s history to debut at No.
1.
It was also the first single with lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto, and later Kazuo Zaitsu covered it.
I had no idea at the time who had composed it, but it turns out the song was by some really amazing people.
Red Sweet PeaMatsuda Seiko
When you think of the quintessential idol, it has to be her, right? I think she really stood out, for better or worse.
An illustrious lineup of creators have written and composed her songs.
This track was the first one Yumi Matsutoya provided to Ms.
Matsuda, and it became one of her signature songs.
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.