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] (71–80)
Blue ChateauJakkī Yoshikawa to Burū Komettsu76rank/position
It is a song released in 1967 by Jackie Yoshikawa and the Blue Comets.
It originated while composer Tadao Inoue was writing a piece to offer to Nana Kinomi, and it went on to sell 1.5 million records, becoming the group’s biggest hit and winning the 9th Japan Record Award.
MakebaJAIN77rank/position
A genre-defying track that skillfully fuses African rhythms with electronic sounds.
It’s a song that showcases the talent of Jain, who rose from France to global acclaim.
Created as an homage to the legendary South African singer Miriam Makeba, it was released in October 2016.
Carrying a universal message that transcends racial and cultural boundaries, it moves the hearts of listeners.
In 2023, it exploded on TikTok, inspiring as many as 9 million videos.
This up-tempo, energetic song is perfect for anyone looking to be moved.
With dance-floor-igniting rhythms, it’s sure to get your body moving before you know it.
Midnight DoorMatsubara Miki78rank/position
When it comes to city pop that’s gone viral on TikTok, many people probably think of “Mayonaka no Door – Stay With Me.” It’s a song released in 1979 by singer Miki Matsubara.
Set to a moody, chorus-tinged sound, it portrays the loneliness of a woman spending the middle of the night alone.
The sophisticated vibe—featuring elements like a trumpet solo—may be one reason for its enduring appeal.
Incidentally, on TikTok, a cover by Indonesian singer Rainych has also been drawing attention.
stationTakeuchi Mariya79rank/position
This is the 16th single by Mariya Takeuchi—an iconic singer-songwriter in the city pop genre, which has seen a global revival.
It’s a self-cover of a song she originally wrote for the legendary idol singer Akina Nakamori, released as a double A-side with “AFTER YEARS.” The bittersweet lyrics set to a wistful melody evoke the complex emotions of a breakup you thought you’d moved past but still lingers somewhere in your heart.
Also used as the theme song for the film “Goodbye Mama,” it is one of Mariya Takeuchi’s signature tracks.
You are in full color.Ohtaki Eiichi80rank/position
This is a masterpiece by Eiichi Ohtaki, who left a profound mark on the history of Japanese pop music.
Released in March 1981, the song was also included on the album “A LONG VACATION” and captured the hearts of many.
Its delicate lyrics depict the sweetness of romantic memories alongside the premonition of parting.
The striking chorus line, “Memories are monochrome,” is said to have been inspired by lyricist Takashi Matsumoto’s personal experiences.
Ohtaki’s rich, layered production—often called the Japanese version of the Wall of Sound—beautifully brings the lyrical world to life.
It’s a recommended track for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or wants to bask in nostalgia.