Masterpieces and hit songs of 80s Japanese pop (kayōkyoku)
The ’80s were full of hit songs, weren’t they?
Here are some especially recommended classics and hits from the era’s signature kayōkyoku tunes.
It’s a timeless, legendary playlist that rewrote the history of Japanese music—one we want both those who spent their youth back then and those who didn’t to listen to.
We feature a wide range of artists, from bands and singer-songwriters to idols.
A karaoke contest limited to this decade would be a blast, wouldn’t it?
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- Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- Recommended youth songs for people in their 80s: A collection of nostalgic classics
- A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s
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- Classic nostalgic summer hits from the ’80s. A roundup of summer songs.
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Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Kayōkyoku (11–20)
Parting HighwayNEW!otoko
A rock number that surges with the exhilaration of tearing down a national highway at dawn, while the unique aches of youth press against your chest.
Featured on their landmark debut album “Otokogumi,” released in September 1988, this track has long been cherished by fans as a crucial opening song on a classic record packed with the raw energy and youthful drive of a freshly debuted band.
The lyricist’s highly narrative writing sets the sorrow of parting to a propulsive sense of speed, and the song was later selected for the ballad compilation “BEST OF BALLADS.” It’s perfect not only as driving BGM, but also for anyone who wants to soak in bittersweet memories and draw strength for tomorrow.
Blue Jeans MemoryNEW!Kondō Masahiko
This is the third single by Masahiko Kondo, created by the Showa-era hit-making duo of lyricist Takashi Matsumoto and composer Kyōhei Tsutsumi.
A classic that captures the headlong rush of youth and the bittersweet resolve of a young person setting off for the big city.
Released in June 1981, the song became a major hit as the theme for the film of the same name, in which Kondo himself starred.
The soul-shaking shouted line near the end was actually Kondo’s own idea! It took the top spot on the Oricon Weekly Chart and on “The Best Ten,” sending Japan into a frenzy at the time.
Why not listen to this song when you want to rekindle that fiery feeling from back then, or when you need to psych yourself up for a big moment?
Yokohama teakNEW!Kondō Masahiko
Set against the nightlife of Yokohama, this work portrays a slightly grown-up lovers’ escapade.
It’s Masahiko Kondo’s second single, released in March 1981.
At the time, it became a hit that found its way into living rooms through music shows, even reaching No.
1 on “The Top Ten.” It has long been cherished as a local Yokohama song, evoking a bittersweet page from youthful days.
The catchy chorus riding on a jive rhythm leaves an unforgettable impact after just one listen.
It’s perfect as background music for a nighttime drive or for anyone who wants to feel the heat of those days and get a boost of energy.
Love = Do!NEW!Tahara Toshihiko
This is the third single released in January 1981 by Toshihiko Tahara, who led the idol scene of the ’80s.
Set to a lively disco- and funk-inspired beat, the cheerful sound is highlighted by the catchy “cha-cha” shouts.
The lyrics, which capture the excitement and flutter of a budding romance, are enough to lift your spirits just by listening.
In addition to topping the Oricon weekly chart, a unique TV performance featuring backup dancers dancing with dolls delighted viewers at home.
The irresistibly catchy choreography will have your body moving—perfect for livening up a karaoke session with friends! Be sure to give this timeless classic a listen.
Fall in LoveKobayashi Akiko
This song became a massive hit as the theme for the TV drama “To Friday’s Wives III: Falling in Love,” which drew a lot of attention at the time.
As the drama shows, in the 1980s, affairs—though unquestionably wrong—were also wistfully romanticized.
Countless women must have been moved to tears and found empathy in her heartrending voice.
A love song that captures the flow of its era, it’s still sung today as a classic from the Showa period.
