RAG Musicartist
Lovely artist

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.

Akina Nakamori’s classic and popular songs (21–30)

full moonNakamori Akina

The full moon slowly wanes over time… This is a heartbreak song that likens that change to a fragile romantic relationship.

It’s a track by singer Akina Nakamori—known for hits like “DESIRE -Passion-” and “Tears Aren’t Just for Show”—included on her 17th album, SHAKER, released in 1997.

The sound arrangement has a dreamy, atmospheric quality that leaves a strong impression.

It feels as if you can see the dynamics between the two unfold.

Give it a careful listen alone at night.

Dear FriendNakamori Akina

I think the life of the female idol Akina Nakamori, with all its twists and turns, could truly be made into a movie or drama.

Despite her overwhelming vocal talent and string of hit singles, she somehow always seemed unhappy, and her life continued to be tumultuous.

That’s why this song makes me feel nostalgic.

Akina Nakamori’s Classic and Popular Songs (31–40)

I hope soNakamori Akina

Akina Nakamori – “I Hope So” Finale
I hope soNakamori Akina
JR Group TV commercial - Akina Nakamori version

The travel program “Tōku e Ikitai,” which has been on the air since 1970, is known as the longest-running travel show in Japan.

Interestingly, it is also the only program for which the JR Group provides commercial sponsorship.

The reason is that the show’s sponsor at the time it began airing was Japanese National Railways (JNR), and after JNR was split up and privatized, the JR Group inherited the role of sponsor.

The commercial song used in this context was “I hope so” by Akina Nakamori, one of Japan’s most celebrated divas.

It’s the title track from the album of the same name released in 2003, and it became a hot topic because Nakamori herself wrote the lyrics.

Musically, it has the feel of a simple, mid-tempo rock ballad, but Nakamori’s voice—tempered by a wealth of life experience—conveys a comforting, all-enveloping warmth, while the positive lyrics strike a chord with listeners.

As for the origin of the title, please do look it up for yourselves.

Adolescence (with an autumnal/reflective nuance)Nakamori Akina

Akina Nakamori, a female idol singer who represents the 1980s and is loved across generations.

Her appeal lies not only in her singles but also in the exceptionally high quality of her albums.

Among them, Shishūki is a classic you’ll want to hear in a graduation scene, included on her cover album Diva.

It’s a cover of Hiromi Iwasaki’s song, and Nakamori’s more wistful vocal approach gives it a fresh impression that’s quite different from bright, upbeat graduation songs.

Be sure to pay attention to the profound lyrics, which capture that feeling of realizing the preciousness of youth only after becoming an adult.

YOU ARE EVERYTHINGNakamori Akina

YOU ARE EVERYTHING Akina Nakamori (Akina Nakamori)
YOU ARE EVERYTHINGNakamori Akina

Akina Nakamori’s love songs resonate deeply with people in their forties.

Among them, “YOU ARE EVERYTHING” is a mature love song about reuniting with a former lover and deciding to start over from the beginning.

Many people in their forties have likely experienced meeting an ex or someone they once cared about and feeling something special again.

A Little Bit ScandalousNakamori Akina

It’s a song that really evokes a passionate summer fling.

The signature Akina Nakamori style kicks in the moment you hear it, making you want to start dancing.

It portrays a very mature, passionate love affair.

It might be nice to play this track, dance as much as you like, and blow off some stress.

TATTONakamori Akina

[Stage Mix] Akina Nakamori – TATTOO [1988]
TATTONakamori Akina

Back when there were many music shows, didn’t you also look forward to the singers’ outfits? This is the song that became a hot topic for its red dress and Akina Nakamori’s great style.

Many young people dress up for Halloween, and it’s also a fun idea to sing this song in a costume you’d normally only wear for Halloween.