Iconic and hit songs by Johnny’s from the 1980s
Hikaru GENJI, Masahiko Kondo, Shonentai, Shibugakitai, Otokogumi…
Top idols who were active in the ’80s and delivered countless classic songs to us.
In this article, we’ll introduce standout and hit songs from Johnny’s acts in the 1980s Japanese music scene.
From timeless tracks still covered by their junior Johnny’s groups to nostalgic hits that bring back memories of that era.
Those old feelings will flare up again—you’re sure to feel your heart swell! These are tracks we especially want today’s Johnny’s fans—who may not know much ’80s music—to hear!
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Johnny’s iconic songs and hits of the 1980s (1–10)
Subtly flashy (bling-bling, but nonchalant)Kondō Masahiko
Released in 1981, ‘Gingiragin ni Sarigenaku’ is the song that propelled Masahiko Kondo—“Matchy”—to the pinnacle of idol stardom.
That year, he won three major newcomer awards: the Japan Record Awards’ Best New Artist, the Japan Kayō Awards’ Broadcast Music Newcomer Award, and the FNS Music Festival’s Best New Artist.
With its impactful lyrics and Matchy’s powerful voice, ‘Gingiragin ni Sarigenaku’ captivated the youth of the Showa era.
It’s a song that will continue to be sung across generations.
High-Teen BoogieKondō Masahiko
Masahiko Kondo was a major sensation during the golden age of idols.
He quickly became the face of Johnny’s right after his debut.
This is a representative Johnny’s song from the 1980s.
There’s no doubt it will continue to be sung by younger members in the future.
It originally came from the hugely popular manga High Teen Boogie, which was adapted into a film starring Kondo himself, and both were big hits.
Johnny & Associates’ strategy was brilliant!
Only for youShonentai
Among the Johnny’s groups, they were known at the time for their exceptionally sharp dance moves and cool style; this is their slow ballad “Kimi Dake ni.” Everyone focused on their gently gliding steps and choreography, and the finger-snapping performance during the song became popular.
While the Johnny’s troupe usually danced briskly to up-tempo numbers, Shonentai, who perfected this dancing ballad, earned special recognition in the dance scene, didn’t they?
Johnny’s classic and hit songs from the 80s (11–20)
STARLIGHTHikaru GENJI
Released in 1987, this debut single was a hit that debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon Singles Chart, beating out Onyanko Club’s final single, “Wedding Dress.” With this song and the success of “Garasu no Jūdai,” Hikaru GENJI captured the hearts of kids across Japan at the time, and towns everywhere were filled with boys racing around on roller skates.
The music was composed by Chage & Aska, with lyrics by Ryo Asuka—no wonder it became a massive hit.
The Legend of the DecameronShonentai
For a moment it sounds like a flurry of nonsensical words, but each line and chant actually has meaning.
Even among Johnny’s songs, it was hugely popular as a track that really hypes you up.
And their dancing—so good! I feel like the energy of this song captures what idol pop was all about at the time.
Autumnotoko
The second single by Otokogumi, a rock band from Johnny’s Entertainment.
Although the title is “Autumn,” it was released in winter.
Even so, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart and is one of Otokogumi’s most popular songs, alongside their 1988 debut track “DAYBREAK” and 1990’s “TIME ZONE.” The double-time feel in the chorus is very evocative of its era, and those who experienced it in real time can’t help but feel nostalgic.
DAYBREAKotoko
A four-member group that debuted in 1985, presenting a strong, masculine image as part of Johnny’s.
Centered on band performances, Otokogumi won the Best New Artist Award at the 30th Japan Record Awards, broadcast on TBS on New Year’s Eve in 1988, with their song “DAYBREAK.” Since most Johnny’s talents focused on dance, their debut track earned a reputation for having both a “cool” sound and lyrics!