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 (31–40)

LA BOHEMENakamori Akina

[Official] Akina Nakamori / LA BOHEME (Live on NHK Young Studio 101, 1986/4/20) [4K] AKINA NAKAMORI / LA BOHEME (NHK Young Studio)
LA BOHEMENakamori Akina

Speaking of Akina Nakamori’s signature songs, “DESIRE” comes to mind.

This track was released as the B-side to “DESIRE.” Not only is the tempo great, but the melody is too, making it popular among fans and a song she often performs live.

Moonlight Shadow ~ Howl at the MoonNakamori Akina

“MOONLIGHT SHADOW – Howl at the Moon” was released in 1996 as Akina Nakamori’s 33rd single.

The album “SHAKER,” released the following year, includes an album version that differs from the single.

Toshihiko Takamizawa of THE ALFEE wrote the lyrics, with Tetsuya Komuro brought on for composition and arrangement.

The lyrics, which sing of the loneliness and emptiness felt on a full-moon night, perfectly match Akina’s mature aura.

Akina Nakamori: Live in ’87 – A HUNDRED daysNakamori Akina

[Official] Akina Nakamori / “Tears Aren’t Just for Show” (Live in ’87: A HUNDRED days at Tokyo Kosei Nenkin Kaikan, 1987-10-17) AKINA NAKAMORI
Akina Nakamori: Live in '87 - A HUNDRED daysNakamori Akina

Akina Nakamori’s “Live in ’87: A HUNDRED days” is a recording of her concert held at the Tokyo Kosei Nenkin Kaikan on October 17, 1987.

The tour primarily featured songs from Bitter and Sweet and Fushigi, showcasing the full range of her appeal.

It includes performances of major hits such as “Kazari Janai no yo Namida wa” and “Nanpa-sen,” as well as “OH NO, OH YES!” written by Mariya Takeuchi.

This video work delivers her vocal prowess and expressive power throughout the entire live performance.

Star XMAS-BERRY: A Tender StarNakamori Akina

A Christmas song released during the peak of singer Akina Nakamori’s career—she remains a legendary top idol of the 1980s and ’90s.

At the time, she was putting out singles with a sassy, mature vibe, so this gentle ballad is a bit of a rarity.

Girl ANakamori Akina

With Lyrics: Girl A / Akina Nakamori
Girl ANakamori Akina

It’s Akina Nakamori’s second single.

I remember that at the time, both I and those around me said the title was suggestive.

But the chorus is crafted so meticulously that it’s truly overwhelming.

In the end, when Akina sings out “Shōjo A,” it’s incredibly captivating—no wonder it’s such a hugely popular song.

Akina Nakamori’s classic and popular songs (41–50)

ShipwreckNakamori Akina

Among Akina’s singles, the grandeur of this song stands out as especially exceptional—it’s a masterpiece that unfolds a breathtakingly vast world.

Although Akina had already been dubbed a diva before this song was released, it was Nampasen that further cemented that status beyond question.

TANGO NOIRNakamori Akina

It’s read as Tango Noir, and it’s an up-tempo masterpiece with incredibly sharp, striking dance moves.

If you saw it on TV, you were probably captivated by Akina’s gorgeous steps and graceful performance.

I was completely enthralled by how, across various videos, Akina expressed both her individuality and the beauty of this song to perfection.