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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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.
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.
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.
Masterpieces and Hit Songs of Nostalgic 80s Japanese Pop (61–70)
DadPRINCESS PRINCESS
A masterpiece that captures the father–daughter relationship from a warm perspective.
Centered on the episode of a daughter introducing her new life partner to her father, it carefully depicts the bond between parent and child from birth through adolescence to the present day in adulthood.
Packed with the charm of PRINCESS PRINCESS, this work was included on the album “LOVERS,” released in November 1989, and became familiar as the song used in KDD’s “001” commercial.
With its warm vocals and melody, it has been embraced across generations and is beloved by many as a song to express gratitude to fathers at weddings.
Limit LoversSHOW-YA
This song resonates with the heartfelt desires of a woman seeking passionate, exhilarating love, carried by a powerful heavy metal sound.
Featuring commanding vocals and fierce guitar work, it was released as a single in February 1989, peaking at No.
13 on the Oricon charts and selling over 300,000 copies.
It was also used in a commercial for Showa Shell Sekiyu and became one of SHOW-YA’s signature tracks.
Embracing both the strength and vulnerability of women, it speaks to anyone who wishes to rediscover their true self, and is sure to strike a chord.
Ah, heartlessAn Ruisu
This song expresses a passionate, heartrending love story set to a powerful rock sound.
Released as a single in April 1986, it features lyrics by Reiko Yukawa and composition by NOBODY.
Considered the culmination of Ann Lewis’s kayō-rock style, it has captivated fans across generations with the artist’s powerful vocals.
In July 2006, it returned to the spotlight as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Thursday drama “Time of Distrust: Woman Wars.” The fusion of hard-hitting sound and richly emotive melody is striking, and its irresistibly danceable beat makes you tap along.