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 songs by nostalgic Japanese pop idols of the 80s
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- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- Popular Showa-era pop. Timeless hit songs.
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- [1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80's Best Hit Songs
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
Masterpieces and Hit Songs of Nostalgic Japanese Pop from the ’80s (51–60)
MonicaYoshikawa Koji
It became Kōji Kikkawa’s debut single and also served as the theme song for the film Sukampin Walk, in which he appeared.
Even now, it’s often performed at his concerts and is one of the songs that really gets the crowd going.
He showcases his cymbal kick during concerts, and his leg still goes way up—it looks as cool as ever.
Second LoveNakamori Akina
It was released in November 1982 as the third single.
Nakamori was deeply moved by the song; the delicate lyrics and melody shook her so much that she wondered whether she should be the one to sing it.
She was convinced that even if another singer performed it, it would become a major hit, and she reportedly felt she would be doing the song a disservice if it didn’t become a success.
My loverGorin Mayumi
This is the 18th single, released in August 1980.
Initially, “Joker,” which is included on the B-side, was planned to be the A-side, but during recording, “Koibito yo” was better received, so they changed it.
It’s a very mature song.
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.
Masterpieces and Hit Songs of Nostalgic 80s Japanese Pop (61–70)
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.
After all, I’m an idolKoizumi Kyoko
I was surprised when I first saw the title of this song.
After all, it’s quite something for an idol to sing a song that pokes fun at herself with a title like “Nantettatte Idol.” But I think it was a song only Kyon Kyon could truly pull off.
Goodbyeofukōsu
This is the 17th single, released in December 1979.
It was used on TBS’s “Christmas Promise.” In a commercial for Daihatsu Motor’s “Eco-Car Subsidy Campaign ‘The End’ Version ‘Goodbye’,” aired in July 2010, it is said that Kazumasa Oda recorded a new version of “Sayonara” specifically for the CM.