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 Showa-era pop. Timeless hit songs.
- Popular Japanese songs among men in their 60s: recommended masterpieces and classic tracks
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Popular Oldies and Classic Songs Ranking [1960s Japanese Music Rankings] (41–50)
EnchantedJudi Ongu43rank/position
This is one of Judy Ongg’s signature songs, which became a massive hit with total sales of two million copies.
It was used in a commercial for an underwear brand, and at first the singer’s name was withheld at the production company’s request.
After the commercial aired, record stores were flooded with inquiries asking, “Who’s singing that song?” Her name was later officially announced.
Speaking of Judy Ongg performing this song, the striking image is her pure white costume that spreads like wings when she extends her arms.
It’s been frequently parodied on impression and comedy shows, and as both a piece of music and a performance, it remains a beloved classic across a wide audience.
A Man’s Badge of HonorYokohama Ginbae44rank/position
A masterpiece that portrays the fiery spirit of a young man forging his own path with a rebellious heart.
Released in April 1982, it is known as one of Daisuke Shima’s signature songs.
Written and composed by Johnny of Yokohama Ginbae, the work features powerful vocals and a strong sense of justice, emblematic of the 1980s tsuppari (delinquent) youth culture.
The song was used as the theme for the Nippon TV drama “Ten made Agare!” and reached No.
3 on the weekly Oricon charts.
Its lyrics carefully depict the protagonist’s resolve to stay true to his beginnings despite facing adversity, resonating deeply across generations.
It was also covered as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “From Today, It’s My Turn!!,” which boosted its popularity among younger audiences.
For example, it’s beloved as a cheer song in high school baseball and has been used as a walk-up song by professional baseball players—an anthem that pushes forward those striving toward their dreams.
Scat at DawnYuki Saori45rank/position
It’s one of the signature songs of the late 1960s, and you can’t help but feel excited when you hear it.
The melody, sung briskly in scat style, has a refreshing quality that evokes the crisp air just before dawn.
After its release in 1969, the song became a massive hit and catapulted Saori Yuki to stardom.
She made her first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year, and the song earned a Lyrics Award at the Japan Record Awards, among other remarkable achievements.
Listening to it on your morning commute or on the way to school will set a positive tone for the day.
Why not welcome the start of a new day by listening to this energetic song that seems to break the stillness before dawn?
If I Could Play the PianoNishida Toshiyuki46rank/position
Marked by lyrics imbued with a bittersweet longing, this work remains one of Toshiyuki Nishida’s signature songs, continuing to move many people to this day.
Released in April 1981, the track was originally produced as an insert song for the drama “Ikenaka Genta 80 Kilos,” but its popularity led to its promotion to the main theme.
That same year, Nishida made his first appearance at the 32nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, performing this song.
With lyrics that delicately capture the feelings of a clumsy man and a melody that resonates with the heart, it is a captivating piece.
A quintessential Showa-era ballad, it is recommended for anyone struggling with love or human relationships.
Drifters’ Zundoko BushiZa Dorifutāzu47rank/position
The cheerful song by The Drifters is a classic that portrays the bittersweet romance of youth with a lively rhythm.
Its lyrics are filled with memories of young love, like a kiss in the shade of the woods after school and heartwarming moments in the school cafeteria.
Released in November 1969, the song captured the hearts of young people at the time and became a major hit.
It was also performed on the TV show “It’s 8 o’clock! Everyone Gather,” making it a household favorite.
It’s a perfect track for those who want to reminisce about the past or lift their spirits with something bright and fun.
Forever with youKayama Yūzō48rank/position
When it comes to summer songs, many of them evoke clear blue skies, don’t they? That’s why I’d like to introduce “Kimi to Itsumademo.” This song, created by Yuzo Kayama, is well known for winning the Japan Record Award and being used as a movie theme song.
Its lyrics tell a love story set against a summer dusk, depicting the deep love and bond between a man and a woman.
Be sure to listen to it at twilight and let yourself drift into that mood.
Since it’s a song that has been sung for many years, you can also enjoy comparing performances from its original era to more recent renditions.
White Swingbiriibanban49rank/position
Debuting in the 1960s as pioneers of folk music, Billy BanBan’s first single captivated many with its warm melody and heartfelt lyrics.
Showcasing the seamless harmonies unique to a brother duo, the song entrusts a swing with the memories and emotions the two shared in days gone by.
Released in 1969, it became a major hit, selling 150,000 copies and marking a turning point in their musical career.
While rooted in folk, Billy BanBan’s music features a distinctive style that also incorporates elements of Japanese kayōkyoku.
It’s a perfect song for when you want to bask in nostalgia or reflect on relationships with those you hold dear.