Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Ranking]
We’re excited to present the latest Top 100 ranking of classic Japanese pop songs, all in one go, ordered by most views!
We’ve picked out nostalgic hits from the 1980s!
Listening back, you’ll notice many of these tracks are still enjoying a revival today.
Be sure to check them out.
The playlist is updated weekly.
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Popular Oldies and Classic Songs Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Rankings] (81–90)
My RevolutionWatanabe Misato85rank/position
This song, imbued with a powerful, forward-looking message, sings of reevaluating oneself and sparking an inner revolution.
It portrays the feelings of a protagonist who, along with a sense of loneliness, discovers a strength that is uniquely their own, appealing to the importance of the strength to chase dreams and to find a way of life that is true to oneself.
Released in January 1986 and reaching No.
1 on the Oricon charts, it is also known as the theme song for the TBS drama “Sailor-fuku Dori.” When you need courage to dive into a new environment, this is a track that will give you a push.
With Misato Watanabe’s powerful vocals, why not take the first step into a new chapter of your life?
BE MY BABYCOMPLEX86rank/position
This song shocked the Japanese rock scene in the late 1980s.
It was the debut single by COMPLEX, the unit formed by Koji Kikkawa and Tomoyasu Hotei, released in April 1989, and it reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
Featuring lyrics themed around love and a distinctive sound that fuses digital rock with rock, it showcases a perfect harmony between Kikkawa’s glamorous vocals and Hotei’s inventive guitar work.
The track was widely used across various media and was even featured in 1991 as the commercial song for Toyota’s Sera.
As a signature classic of the ’80s, it remains beloved by many to this day.
Dancing All Nightmonta & burazāzu87rank/position
A classic that swept through Japan’s 1980s music scene, depicting a sweetly romantic story.
Its nostalgic melody and lyrics that capture delicate emotions resonate deeply.
Yoshinori Monta’s distinctive husky voice beautifully expresses its romantic worldview.
Released in April 1980, it held the No.
1 spot on the Oricon charts for 10 consecutive weeks and won the Gold Prize at the 22nd Japan Record Awards.
Built mainly on three chords—Em, Am, and B7—with just a single Em/A appearing once, it’s a perfect song for mastering guitar fundamentals.
I LOVE YOUOzaki Yutaka88rank/position
Released in 1991 as Yutaka Ozaki’s 11th single, this classic has since been covered by numerous musicians, including Hikaru Utada and Kobukuro.
It’s a ballad with a piano-centered, acoustic sound that strikes a chord, weaving a poignant love story between a young man and woman.
As you listen, it may bring back fragile yet beautiful memories of an awkward youth.
It’s also recommended to immerse yourself in the version now carried on by his son, singer-songwriter Hiroya Ozaki, and experience its unique world.
You are more beautiful than a rose.Fuse Akira89rank/position
It sings of that dramatic feeling when you’re suddenly taken aback by the beauty of someone you haven’t seen in a long time.
Released in January 1979 as Japanese singer Akira Fuse’s 42nd single, the song features a very urbane sound crafted by Godiego’s Mickey Yoshino that blends perfectly with Fuse’s overwhelming sustained notes.
At the time, it was used in a Kanebo cosmetics commercial and drew attention for featuring Olivia Hussey.
The lyrics can be read as a paean to women, making it perfect for moments like a bride’s re-entrance after a costume change, when you want to highlight her radiant presence.
It will instantly brighten the whole venue.
Goodbye to sorrowanzenchitai90rank/position
This is one of Anzen Chitai’s signature songs, depicting a heartrending love story.
The lyrics, which intertwine the sorrow of heartbreak with the dawn of a new romance, resonate with many listeners.
Koji Tamaki’s vocals and the band’s sound blend beautifully, giving the piece a timeless appeal.
Released in June 1985, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts and marked their first appearance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year.
It’s the perfect song for anyone trying to overcome the pain of a breakup or take a step into a new love.
Listen to it, and you’re sure to find courage.
Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Songs Ranking] (91–100)
TIME ZONEotoko91rank/position
You can feel the determination that “even after graduation, this love, this friendship won’t end!” in Otokogumi’s “TIME ZONE.” Released in 1989, this song stands out from other graduation songs with its cool rock sound.
The lyrics convey the feeling that even if you graduate and never see each other again, the bonds forged over these past years will never break.
While the central theme is the emotions of facing a breakup with a lover, it can also be interpreted as an unbreakable friendship with dear friends.
