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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 (41–50)

forbidden zoneNakamori Akina

[With Lyrics] Kinkyū (Forbidden Zone) / Akina Nakamori
forbidden zoneNakamori Akina

It’s one of my personal all-time favorite songs.

The title “Kinku” is brilliant, playing on the idea of a “forbidden zone” rather than just a “taboo.” In the chorus, the flailing arms vividly capture the feelings of a woman being led astray, and the song itself is so good that I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had it on repeat.

Watching it in the video makes its appeal even clearer.

Akina Nakamori’s classic and popular songs (51–60)

Gypsy QueenNakamori Akina

This is Akina Nakamori’s 15th single.

Although the song carries a somewhat exotic atmosphere, the way Akina can transform it into a country-like vibe truly makes her deserving of the title “songstress.” The stylish, slow progression from the A verse to the B verse is superb, and the chorus’s enveloping melody is memorable—I really love this song.

Homecoming ~Never Forget~Nakamori Akina

Cold Moon “Homecoming ~Never Forget~” Op
Homecoming ~Never Forget~Nakamori Akina

Personally, this is my top candidate for Akina Nakamori’s best ballad.

The moment I heard it, I was captivated, and the mystical melody in the intro of “Kisei Never Forget” is truly extraordinary.

Urban yet soothing like an oasis, I’m convinced this masterpiece is one of Akina’s finest works from her later period.

I definitely want you to give it a listen.

Allegro vivaceNakamori Akina

D404ME, Akina Nakamori’s eighth studio album, was released in 1985.

The album was not only a hit that won the Excellence Album Award at the Japan Record Awards, but also a work that showcased her growth as a vocalist.

Among its tracks, Allegro Vivace is packed with charm that highlights her languid, ennui-tinged voice—truly a song that only Akina Nakamori could deliver.

OpheliaNakamori Akina

This is Akina Nakamori’s 38th single.

It’s a striking song with a mysterious intro that begins with added spoken narration.

It’s also well-known among fans because Akina herself starred in the TV drama.

With its mature atmosphere, it makes me want to listen at night or on rainy days, and I still replay it a lot even now.

The Ten CommandmentsNakamori Akina

Akina Nakamori Live: The Tenth Commandments · 1984
The Ten CommandmentsNakamori Akina

This is definitely a song you should watch in video form.

I even have an embarrassing memory from back then of not being able to read the title “Jikkai” (The Ten Commandments).

In the intro choreography, there’s a scene where she stamps her heels on the ground while stepping, and she even strikes a pose like an Ina Bauer.

That flexible, fluid movement made me think, as expected, Akina—who has ballet experience—really stands out.

DESIRENakamori Akina

Akina Nakamori - DESIRE (Passion)
DESIRENakamori Akina

Speaking of Akina Nakamori, this is the song! A mega-hit single with an undeniable, iconic presence.

On music shows, DESIRE thrilled audiences with its kimono-inspired costumes and bold bob haircut.

It became so popular that it frequently tops rankings of past songs people want to hear again.