Akina Nakamori’s classic and popular songs
We would like to introduce songs by Akina Nakamori, a female singer who debuted in 1982.
Akina Nakamori made her debut with the song “Slow Motion” in 1981 after appearing on the popular TV show “Star Tanjō!” which produced many stars at the time.
She received high acclaim not only as a singer—winning the Japan Record Award—but also as an actress, starring in television dramas.
Just before her debut, when discussion arose about what stage name to use, her agency reportedly suggested the name “Mori Asuna.” However, she declined, saying she wanted to sing under her real name, which her parents had given her.
Now please enjoy the songs of Akina Nakamori, who was immensely popular in the 1980s.
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Akina Nakamori’s classic and popular songs (21–30)
Close your eyes for a little excursionNakamori Akina
A mellow love song, “Close Your Eyes for a Little Excursion,” is also recommended.
It’s a track included on their third album, Fantasy (Fantasia).
The lyrics are notably rich in metaphor, depicting a woman looking back on her past memories.
Try singing it while letting your imagination wander about what kind of feelings are being expressed.
Overall, it has a relaxed vibe with few high notes or intense sections, so I think it’s easy to sing.
Naniwa boatNakamori Akina
Released by Tokiko Kato in 1984, this song was covered and released in 1987 as Akina Nakamori’s 19th single, becoming a major hit.
It’s said that Tokiko Kato herself earnestly wished for Akina Nakamori to sing it, which led to the song being offered to her.
Cover versions were subsequently released by prominent artists such as Kaori Momoi, Tomomi Kahala, and Fuyumi Sakamoto, cementing its place as a classic of the Showa era.
My lover has left, and I’ve lost everything, yet the city remains unchanged.
Perhaps it’s important not to put on a brave face, and to allow ourselves to fully grieve a heartbreak.
stationNakamori Akina
A heartrending love song that begins with an unexpected reunion at a station where people pass each other by.
Akina Nakamori’s delicate vocals beautifully capture the complex emotions of a woman bewildered by a chance encounter with her former lover.
Released in December 1986 and included on the album “Crimson,” this gem was written by Mariya Takeuchi.
One of its charms is that you can enjoy both Nakamori’s version and Takeuchi’s self-cover, each with its own captivating voice.
It’s a song that gently nudges those who, while carrying the pain of heartbreak, are trying to lift their heads and move forward.
Lingering SnowNakamori Akina
This song, which is also included on her own cover album, surprises you right from the start: a beat-driven “Nagori Yuki.” Isn’t this, in the truest sense, what a cover song should be? The faint voice that seems as if it might fade away at any moment might seem mismatched with the wistful yet rhythmic arrangement of “Nagori Yuki,” but it fits perfectly, becoming a version that only Akina Nakamori could sing.
Highly recommended.
DESIRE -Passion-Nakamori Akina
Written by lyricist Yoko Aki and composed by Kisaburo Suzuki, this song was released in 1986 as the 14th single.
It’s structured so that the chorus comes right at the beginning, which felt fresh and innovative at the time.
Speaking of innovation, the bob wig and the kimono-inspired outfit also made a strong impression back then.
It was around this time that wearing kimonos casually started to become a trend, wasn’t it? While the chorus showcases her beautiful, expansive vibrato, the melody is relatively easy to remember, so please feel free to give it a try.
GAIA ~Whispers of the Earth~Nakamori Akina
Akina Nakamori is one of the most iconic idols of the 1980s.
She made her debut and gained popularity after appearing on the Nippon TV show “Star Tanjō!” In this song, she draws a parallel between a wounded Earth and her own battered self, yet sings of her determination not to give up on the future.
Goddess of ParadiseNakamori Akina
“Goddess of Paradise” is a song included on Akina Nakamori’s 18th album, “SPOON,” released in 1998.
I believe the song’s greatest appeal lies in its bewitching, passionate lyrics, combined with Nakamori’s whisper-like voice and powerful emotion.