Ranking of Popular Oldies and Classic Songs [1960s Japanese Music Rankings]
We present the latest top 100 ranking of classic Japanese pop songs, all at once, ordered by the highest number of plays!
We’ve picked out nostalgic hits from the 1960s!
Listening again, you’ll notice many songs are still being revived today.
Be sure to check them out.
The playlist is updated weekly.
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Popular Oldies and Classic Songs Ranking [1960s Japanese Music Ranking] (91–100)
foreignerKUBOTA Saki92rank/position
From an intro that exudes an exotic atmosphere, Saki Kubota’s debut single draws you in before you know it.
The lyrics, suffused with loneliness and a sense of loss, are sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of heartbreak.
Released in October 1979, the song was also featured in a Sanyo Electric commercial and sparked a huge response, reaching No.
1 on the Oricon chart in December.
It’s a track that fully showcases her talent as a singer-songwriter, perfect for times when you want to heal the wounds of a broken heart or take a hard look at yourself.
A Member of the Fire BrigadeRattsu & Sutā (Suzuki Masayuki)93rank/position
Rats & Star, who also performed at the 2022 Fuji Rock Festival, continue to broaden their activities to this day.
Debuting in 1975 as Chanels, they played a key role in bringing Black music such as soul and doo-wop into living rooms across Japan, and “Me Gumi no Hito” was released in 1983.
Kumi Koda covered the song in 2010, and a sped-up version went viral on TikTok in 2018, drawing attention from younger audiences as well.
Their deep, resonant, and suave chorus has only grown more refined with time, evolving into an even richer masterpiece.
SPARKLEYamashita Tatsuro94rank/position
With its striking, shimmering guitar cutting, this piece stands as one of Tatsuro Yamashita’s foremost summer anthems.
Even without lyrics, its sophisticated sound vividly evokes the urban summer skyline and the liberating feel of resort getaways, lifting the listener’s spirits.
The meticulous arranging and layered vocal overdubs are truly the work of a sonic craftsman.
This classic is included on the masterpiece FOR YOU, released in January 1982, which topped the Oricon charts and sold about 700,000 copies; the album also earned a Best 10 Albums Award at the 24th Japan Record Awards.
It’s perfect not only as BGM for a summer drive date, but also for a stylish, leisurely afternoon—an enduring gem that can be enjoyed across generations.
Stranger – Theme of the Silk RoadKUBOTA Saki95rank/position
An intro with an Oriental phrase that leaves a strong impression.
As the subtitle “Theme of the Silk Road” suggests, the melody line evoking the Middle East was a shock at the time.
This exotic image is said to have been inspired by producer Masatoshi Sakai’s barefoot journey through the South Pacific.
The arrangement, which changes dramatically between the so-called A and B sections, also feels fresh.
It creates the atmosphere of wandering on a camel through an endless desert, and even now you can enjoy the sensation of embarking on a mysterious journey when you listen to it.
Message of RougeMatsutoya Yumi96rank/position
This is a song distinguished by its lively rhythm and refreshing melody.
The story of a woman who discovers her boyfriend’s infidelity, leaves a message written in lipstick on the bathroom mirror, and boards a train to visit his mother is bold and humorous, making it especially appealing.
While it carries a cautionary message about cheating, it also presents a positive, strong female figure—one of Yumi Matsutoya’s masterpieces.
Released in February 1975 and included on the album COBALT HOUR, the track features chorus contributions from Tatsuro Yamashita and others, resulting in a vibrant sound.
In 1989, it was chosen as the opening theme for the film Kiki’s Delivery Service, and it has continued to be loved across generations.
With its bright and cheerful tone expressing powerful feelings toward a lover, this song gently encourages women struggling with romance and is highly recommended to many listeners.
Love is overŌyō Fifi97rank/position
Ouyang Feifei’s classic “Love Is Over.” It’s a timeless hit cherished by a wide range of generations, from adults to younger listeners.
I’ve heard the song was created with the image of “a woman who finally runs out of patience with her younger, unemployed boyfriend,” but it doesn’t just depict her giving up—it beautifully conveys lingering attachment and affection as well.
Perhaps the charm of Showa-era songs lies in how they gently evoke such deep emotions without being too direct.
There are many cover versions too, so it can be fun to compare them with the original and enjoy the unique flavor of each.
wicked womanNakajima Miyuki98rank/position
Still beloved today as a classic from the Showa era, this work features Miyuki Nakajima’s soul-stirring vocals and a poignant love story that resonates deeply.
Released as a single in October 1981, it is known as one of Nakajima’s signature songs.
The lyrics, which portray a woman’s feelings as she sacrifices herself for the one she loves, strike a chord with listeners.
Covered by numerous artists, it has been cherished both in Japan and abroad.
It’s a song recommended for listening alone on a quiet night.
A gem that accompanies those suffering in love or harboring a bittersweet longing.