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!
- Iconic and hit songs by Johnny’s from the 1990s
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese pop idols of the 80s
- [Johnny's Classic Hits] Carefully Selected Popular Songs That Are Sure to Liven Up Any Karaoke Session!
- [Johnny's Medley] A selection of popular songs that continue to captivate many fans!
- Masterpieces and hit songs of 80s Japanese pop (kayōkyoku)
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- Iconic Johnny’s songs from the 2000s onward. Nostalgic hits that bring back memories.
- Autumn songs that were hits in the 80s. Classic and popular tracks from Japanese music.
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
- Including global hits! 80s songs popular on TikTok
- Great enka masterpieces and hit songs of the 1980s
- Now’s the time to listen! Uplifting Showa-era songs that brightened Japan
Johnny’s classic and hit songs from the 80s (11–20)
Sneaker BluesKondō Masahiko
This is Masahiko Kondo’s biggest hit song.
It’s not just a Johnny’s tune that instantly captivates everyone around—it’s a perfectly crafted classic! Even now, it still draws you in.
That retro vibe at the beginning is irresistible, right? All of his songs from back when he was a top idol had such incredible power.
Aishuu de Ito (New York City Nights)Tahara Toshihiko
This is the long-awaited debut single from the thoroughbred “Shun-chan,” who shot to fame in “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3-B.” The original song is “New York City Nights” by American singer Leif Garrett.
I was a bit surprised at the time that he debuted with a cover, but it fit his wistful image so well that it became hugely popular.
The choreography in the chorus was especially memorable.
ABCShonentai
This is Shonentai’s seventh single.
Known for their dancing, they often use stand microphones, and in this song, “ABC,” you can see their perfectly synchronized moves around the mic.
The highlight is in the third chorus, where all three of them kick their mic stands away with their feet—a must-see performance! The detailed choreography is also noteworthy, showcasing just how technically skilled their dancing is.
foolKondō Masahiko
This song, one of Matchi’s signature tracks after shedding his idol image, became a big hit thanks to his acclaimed vocal performance and won numerous music awards.
Many fans must have thought, “Who would have imagined that the guy who used to say ‘I’m Matchi!’ could deliver such an emotionally charged song?” ShoKen—Kenichi Hagiwara—also released a version of this track, and each has its own unique flavor.
Longing for AndalusiaKondō Masahiko
This is the solo debut single by Masatoshi Mashima, guitarist of the band THE BLUE HEARTS, who enjoyed peak popularity, and it is also the 32nd single by Masahiko Kondo—known as Matchy—one of the flagship idols of Johnny & Associates.
Andalusia is a region in southern Spain, and both the lyrics and the melody are wrapped in an exotic atmosphere.
Although the lyrics depict mafia conflicts and are by no means lighthearted, they possess a universality that appeals to the hearts of boys across generations.
100%…That might be the case.Shibugakitai
It was their second single and also the song that won them numerous newcomer awards that year.
Its energetic performance and sing-along lyrics made it popular.
Many fans imitated and sang the parts where the trio’s roles were clearly defined.
Their cute “mischievous kid” image had an irresistible charm that, like a phrase from the song, made you say, “It’s addictive!”
Iconic and Hit Songs by Johnny’s from the 1980s (21–30)
Diamond HurricaneHikaru GENJI
Their fourth single, and their popularity has shown no signs of slowing since their debut.
Their roller-skating performances became even more polished, and so many kids looked up to them.
Anyway, that huge, hyped-up presence is quintessential Johnny’s—an idol group like no other! The members were incredibly athletic, too! But why were they always shirtless…? (lol) This was the classic Johnny’s formula of the time.