Classic and hit kayōkyoku songs from the nostalgic 1960s
The 1960s are often remembered for Group Sounds and rock, but in reality, the charts were largely dominated by kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs).
It was also still a time when enka remained popular, and even those who were children back then probably have a rich repertoire of enka and kayōkyoku.
This time, we’re spotlighting nostalgic kayōkyoku from the music of the 1960s.
The 1960s were an era when classic, mainstream kayōkyoku drew the most attention.
If you’d like to look back on memories from that time through music, be sure to read this article to the end.
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Classic and hit songs of nostalgic 60s Kayōkyoku (1–10)
Blue ChateauJakkī Yoshikawa to Burū Komettsu
As the GS era dawned with their 1967 release, the Blue Comets were, if anything, musically orthodox, and this song was loved by both children and adults.
The indescribable intro is so iconic that people of that generation could nail it even in a “Super Ultra Intro” round on Doremifadon.
It won the 9th Japan Record Award and is still widely known and beloved, including through parody versions, and the group members were all exceptionally musically tasteful.
Isezakicho BluesAoe Mina
This work, one of Mina Aoe’s signature songs, is a classic themed around the city of Yokohama.
Her husky voice and distinctive “breathy” delivery left a strong impression and became a major talking point at the time.
Released in January 1968, it was a huge hit that earned her the Japan Record Award for Best Vocal Performance.
The song was also featured in the film Waterboys and is beloved across generations.
It vividly captures the nighttime atmosphere of Yokohama and the emotions of its people, encapsulating the charm of Showa-era kayōkyoku.
It’s the perfect track for anyone looking to savor a nostalgic vibe or explore a masterpiece of Japanese pop classics.
Slave of LoveOkumura Chiyo
When it comes to Chiyo Okumura’s signature songs, this is probably the one many people think of.
Released in June 1969, it was a major hit, reaching No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
The lyrics poignantly depict a woman who has fallen in love, and Okumura’s distinctive vocal style is captivating.
While it portrays a sweet and charming feminine image, you can also feel a strong resolve—she’s willing to make any sacrifice for the one she loves.
It’s a lovely, memorable song in the classic Showa kayōkyoku style: brief, yet it lingers in the heart.
Classic and hit kayōkyoku songs from the nostalgic ’60s (11–20)
Thank you, night fog, again tonight.Ishihara Yūjirō
Among Yujiro Ishihara’s signature songs—celebrated for his sweet, wistful vocals—this work stands out.
Sung about a secret love between two people wrapped in the night fog, it was released in February 1967 and also served as the theme song for a film of the same name.
Written and composed by Kuranosuke Hamaguchi, the piece is a Showa-era classic that blends elements of jazz and ballad.
Its gentle atmosphere is imbued with a poignant longing, making it a song you’ll want to listen to while strolling through the city at night.
Recommended not only for Ishihara’s fans but also for anyone who wants to experience the great songs of the Showa era.
The flowers were late.Miki Katsuhiko
I tried to find footage from when it was released in 1967, but I couldn’t.
What left a strong impression back then was that they sang dressed as riders, wearing helmets and such.
It’s a sad song about finally managing to find Kaoru-chan’s favorite crocus only for Kaoru-chan to pass away soon after, but the era was controversial because the final spoken line shouts, “You idiot!”
When the Acacia Rain StopsNishida Sachiko
When it comes to Sachiko Nishida, known for her husky voice and powerful expressiveness, this song is undoubtedly her signature piece.
Released in April 1960, it’s often associated with the U.S.-Japan Security Treaty protests and deeply resonated with the youth of the time.
The lyrics, which evoke loneliness, wistfulness, and the hope of a new beginning through images of acacia blossoms and rain, are particularly striking.
Nishida’s dry, understated vocals further enhance the song’s atmosphere.
It’s also intriguing that the song is said to have been sung with images of Paris in mind.
It’s a perfect track for when you’re feeling down or standing at a crossroads in life.
Give it a listen.
Little Finger MemoriesItō Yukari
This is Yukari Ito in her younger days, from a 1967 release, so the image is in black and white, but she looks cute, doesn’t she? I think it was probably lip-synced at the time, but Yukari Ito’s smooth, resonant voice was very popular.
Later on, she dated Isao Shibata of the Giants, who went on to achieve the V9 streak, causing quite a stir in the media, but in the end they did not end up together.