Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
In the 1980s, a decade that saw musical diversity in genres like folk songs and pop, singer-songwriters emerged across various styles and left behind numerous classic hits.
Here, we present a ranking of popular songs by male singer-songwriters from the 1980s.
- Singer-Songwriter/Artist Rankings of the 1980s [2026]
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- 1990s Male Singer-Songwriters: Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Recommended Japanese Music Artists and Popular Song Rankings for Men in Their 50s [2026]
- A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s
- A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 1980s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
- Ranking of Popular Songs by Japanese Male Singers from the 1990s [2026]
- Best Songs and Popular Tracks by Male Singer-Songwriters: 2026 Rankings
- Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Ranking]
- Male Singer-Songwriters of the 2000s: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- Masterpieces by male artists known for their captivating high notes. Recommended popular songs.
- Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
Male Singer-Songwriters of the ’80s: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (61–70)
Eyes of the heartSakamoto Kyu61rank/position
When we think of Kyu Sakamoto, songs like “Ue o Muite Arukō” (“Sukiyaki”) and “Miagete Goran Yoru no Hoshi o” come to mind, but this song, “Kokoro no Hitomi,” is also a wonderful piece.
Sakamoto’s works feel less like mere “tunes” and more like true “songs,” don’t they? Lyrics along the lines of “Even if time passes and everything changes, love alone remains the same” can be taken as both a love song and a song about bonds.
The words that gently teach us, “We can face partings without sorrow because there is a bond there,” also evoke a faint image of graduation scenes.
The lyrics and music come from the golden Shōwa-era duo, Toyohisa Araki and Takashi Miki.
It’s a good old Shōwa song we want to keep singing forever.
Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu62rank/position
It’s a ballad whose beautiful yet bittersweet melody sinks into the heart, sung as if offering a modest prayer to the twinkling stars in the night sky.
The lyrics, which believe that any hardship can be overcome as long as the two are together, resonate with the image of a bride and groom who will now join hands and walk through life.
Originally written as a song for a musical premiered in 1960, it was released as a single in May 1963 sung by Kyu Sakamoto.
It won the Composer’s Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards and has been covered and carried on by many artists, including Ken Hirai and Yuzu.
It’s perfect as background music to enhance the magical ambiance of a candle service or to accompany a moving scene expressing gratitude to parents.
Why not let yourself be wrapped in the warm atmosphere exuded by this timeless masterpiece?
To each their own.Ōe Senri63rank/position
Released in 1984, it’s a pop song that hasn’t faded even after more than 30 years.
It was used in a commercial for UHA Mikakuto’s candy “DATE KISS,” and the commercial version’s arrangement was handled by Tetsuya Komuro, who had just debuted with TM NETWORK at the time.
SHADOW CITYTerao Akira64rank/position
Atsushi Terao continues to captivate us with performances brimming with intensity.
Whether in films, TV dramas, or even in brief supporting roles, he leaves an overwhelming presence that elevates every work.
Speaking of Terao’s music career, we remember countless Showa-era legends still talked about today, such as his record-setting consecutive No.
1s on The Best Ten with “Ruby no Yubiwa,” and having three songs simultaneously ranked in the top ten.
“SHADOW CITY,” Terao’s third single, is exceptional for a hit song in that the entire first verse has no lyrics and is sung in scat.
Its cool, composed melody evokes the sophistication of Showa-era adults—and it’s incredibly stylish.
It’s a Showa masterpiece that today’s young people should absolutely hear!
winter groveogura kei65rank/position
Kei Ogura, who has the unusual background of having gone from bank clerk to folk singer, enjoys enduring popularity for his clear, beautiful voice and wistful melodies.
This winter song is included on the album “Kaze no Kagami” (Mirror of the Wind).
It’s very dark, but a good song.
Rainy BlueTokunaga Hideaki66rank/position
Released in 1986 and covered by many artists over the years, Hideaki Tokunaga’s “Rainy Blue” captivates with an intro that seems to capture the sound of rainfall.
It’s a poignant ballad that overlays rainy scenery with a love that has ended, and its lyrics—hinting that the feelings still remain—strike the heart.
Tokunaga’s beautiful voice, gently singing of sorrow, brings tears to the eyes.
It’s a timeless love song that tenderly stays close to the hearts of those who have experienced heartbreak.
While shining…Tokunaga Hideaki67rank/position
Released in July 1987, this song became a huge hit as the theme for a Fujicolor commercial featuring Yoko Minamino.
With its beautiful yet slightly wistful melody, it is the masterpiece that catapulted Hideaki Tokunaga to fame.
Its world steeped in the confusion and resolve of taking the first steps into adulthood makes it perfect for graduation season and new beginnings.
The clear, high-toned vocals vividly bring back the glow of youth.
In Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture—hometown of lyricist Akira Otsu—a monument to the song has been erected, and it continues to be deeply cherished by local residents.
It’s a gentle companion not only for those setting out on a spring journey, but also for anyone wishing to reminisce about days gone by.
Aeolian of the WindTokunaga Hideaki68rank/position
A single released in 1988.
It was used as a commercial song for Panasonic air conditioners.
Amidst the ethereal soundscape, a slightly husky voice resonates with clarity.
It’s a track that evokes a sense of fantasy.
Blue NovemberKisugi Takao69rank/position
A mellow ballad that portrays a bittersweet love, this is an autumn classic delivered by Takao Kisugi.
The lyrics—singing of jade-green memories and the long nights of fall—leave a strong impression.
The lingering attachment and loneliness for a love that has passed are expressed beautifully.
This piece was included on the album “With Time,” released in November 1988, and was issued as a single the following year.
It was also used in a Dai-ichi Life commercial, resonating with many people.
Highly recommended for those spending long autumn nights alone or those troubled by love.
Why not surrender yourself to its gently permeating melody?
Snowbound Party -Tonight Visitors OK!-Hamada Shogo70rank/position
A lively dance number that depicts a single night with a special someone met on a street corner as powdery snow falls.
It was included on the mini-album “CLUB SNOWBOUND,” released in November 1985, and later appeared on the album “CLUB SURF & SNOWBOUND.” The track features layered sounds reminiscent of oldies and doo-wop, with a pop arrangement that weaves in saxophone and backing vocals.
The lyrics intertwine the glamorous atmosphere of a Christmas party with the poignancy of parting, portraying a one-night, dreamlike romance.
Masakazu Itakura’s arrangement creates a three-dimensional sound image that simultaneously conveys the giddy cheer and bittersweetness of Christmas.
Crafted with a playful spirit by Shogo Hamada, this piece is perfect when you’re in the mood for upbeat rock ’n’ roll.