Popular Oldies and Classic Songs Ranking: 1970s Japanese Music
We’re excited to present the latest top 100 ranking of nostalgic Japanese pop songs, introduced all at once in order of most views!
We’ve picked out beloved classics that were hits in the 1970s.
Listening again like this, you’ll notice many songs are still enjoying revivals today.
Be sure to check them out.
The playlist is updated every week.
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Popular Oldies and Classic Songs Ranking [1970s Japanese Music Ranking] (11–20)
Lullaby of a Serrated HeartChekkāzu15rank/position
The debut single by The Checkers, a band emblematic of the 1980s, is popular on Instagram as well.
Featuring lyrics that capture the feelings of rebellious youth and a rock-inspired sound, this track stands out.
While it didn’t make a big splash at the time of release, it was later reappraised after subsequent hits.
Released in September 1983, it ranked 20th on the Oricon year-end chart the following year.
It was also used in the TV drama “Uchi no Ko ni Kagitte…,” making it beloved by many.
With a distinctly Showa-era vibe, it’s perfect for nostalgic posts.
Try using it in your Instagram Reels.
Sonnet of the Clownsadamasashi16rank/position
A signature work by Masashi Sada, born as the theme song for the film “Fly, Wings of Icarus.” The sorrow hidden behind a clown’s smile and the belief that bringing smiles to others can also save oneself are expressed through gentle yet aching vocals and melody.
Released in February 1980, the song reached No.
2 on the Oricon chart and was later used in commercials for Japan Post Bank and U-Can correspondence courses.
It has become an indispensable part of Sada’s concert repertoire and continues to resonate with many people.
It’s a heartwarming song to listen to when you’re struggling in life or want to encourage someone.
There’s always tomorrowSakamoto Kyu17rank/position
It’s a classic song that sings of the clumsiness and hope of youth.
It portrays the protagonist’s feelings in love and the courage to take on challenges without fearing failure.
Kyu Sakamoto’s warm vocals enhance its positive message.
Released in 1963, it later gained renewed attention when it was used in a Japan Coca-Cola commercial.
In 2002, it was also selected as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
It’s a recommended track for those stepping into a new environment or struggling with love.
Each listen is sure to stir up hope.
Lingering Snowiruka18rank/position
A signature song by Iruka that portrays a farewell in the falling snow.
Beneath its understated lyrics lies a poignant emotion that resonates with many listeners.
Released in 1975, it became a massive hit and cemented Iruka’s status as a singer.
Packed with the charm of folk music, this piece features a pleasantly warm acoustic guitar sound and a melody that’s easy to enjoy across generations.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to as spring approaches, and it’s an easy pick for karaoke.
Perfect for anyone who wants to sing a classic folk tune.
Plastic LoveTakeuchi Mariya19rank/position
This song portrays the feelings of a woman wounded by a sweet romance.
The image of the protagonist distracting her loneliness by dancing the nights away at the disco is striking.
It was included on Mariya Takeuchi’s sixth album, VARIETY, and released in 1984.
Produced and featuring guitar by Tatsuro Yamashita, it stands as one of the defining tracks of 1980s Japanese city pop.
It gained renewed attention overseas in the late 2010s, and a new music video was created in 2019, showing how it continues to be loved across generations.
It’s a perfect track for nighttime drives or as background music when you’re troubled by love.
Use it in an Instagram Reel to evoke a nostalgic vibe.
Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji20rank/position
When it comes to Kenji Sawada’s signature songs that dominated the music scene of the ’70s, this is the one.
It portrays the complex emotions of a man after a breakup, expressing a free-spirited mindset alongside resignation and loneliness.
It held the No.
1 spot on the Oricon weekly chart for five consecutive weeks, ranked No.
4 for the year, and sold an impressive 890,000 copies.
Released in May 1977, the song features lyrics by Yū Aku and composition by Katsuo Ōno.
Its bold structure—shifting from ballad to hard rock—is a defining trait, strongly reflecting arranger Motoki Funayama’s influence.
The sophisticated, bittersweet lyrics capture the youth culture and views on love of the time with vivid clarity, and it’s sure to resonate just as powerfully even today.
Popular Oldies and Classic Songs Ranking [1970s Japanese Music Ranking] (21–30)
Until we meet againOzaki Kiyohiko21rank/position
Known as one of Kiyohiko Ozaki’s signature songs, this piece is a masterpiece that, while centered on parting, conveys a sense of forward-looking resolve.
Yu Aku’s carefully woven lyrics portray a mature breakup that spares each other pain, while Kyohei Tsutsumi’s melody resonates deeply in the heart.
Released in March 1971, it won both the Japan Record Award and the Japan Kayō Award.
It was also selected as the entrance march for the 1972 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, and it continues to be cherished across generations.
It’s a moving song that I hope you’ll listen to not only if you’ve experienced a farewell, but also when you want to feel the bond with someone important to you.