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 kayōkyoku songs from the nostalgic 1960s (31–40)
Song of the DawnKishi Yoko
This is a song released by Yoko Kishi in 1964, and in the following year, 1965, a Nikkatsu-produced musical film of the same title based on the song was released.
Known as one of Kishi’s signature songs, it earned her the Vocal Performance Award at the 6th Japan Record Awards, and she made her first appearance at the 15th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 1964.
Only youSaigō Teruhiko
This is Teruhiko Saigō’s debut song, released in 1964.
The record jacket shows a young Saigō, whose distinctive singing style and good looks gradually boosted his popularity, and he was known as one of the “Big Three” alongside Yukio Hashi and Akira Mita.
Even now, Saigō energetically performs concerts, and it’s said he goes on walks for about two hours almost every day to build his stamina.
To Marie on Fifth AvenuePedoro & Kapurishasu
Pedro & Capricious is a music group that, despite several changes of lead vocalist, has consistently remained popular.
They’ve produced many famous singers, but perhaps the most memorable era is when Mariko Takahashi served as the vocalist.
“To Mari on Gobangai (Fifth Avenue)” is a wonderfully heartwarming song sung by Mariko Takahashi.
Although the lyrics are bittersweet, the melody is relaxed and bright, making it a perfect piece for looking back on memories and creating a lively, nostalgic mood.
Miracle of LoveHide to Rozanna
This footage, released in 1968, shows both Hide and Rosanna when they were young.
In those days, male-female duos were often asked about whether they were dating, and it seems Rosanna secretly had a crush on Hide.
The song truly embodies a miracle of love in real life, and after she married Hide, she devoted herself to him with great dedication.
Waltz of StarlightSen Masao
Released in 1966 as Masao Sen’s sixth single.
It sold over 1.7 million copies, reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart, and achieved total sales of 2.5 million.
Although sales were sluggish at the time of its 1966 release, it is said to have caught on through local cable radio broadcasts, which led to its hit status.