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 & Classic Hits Rankings [1980s Japanese Music Rankings] (11–20)
I can’t stop this sadnessAnri15rank/position
Released in 1983, this is Anri’s 14th single and one of her signature songs.
It also marks a pivotal track arranged and produced by Toshiki Kadomatsu, a leading musician of the 1980s, and it portrays the feelings of a woman whose boyfriend is taken by her friend, leaving her overwhelmed with sorrow.
While the lyrics alone are heartbreakingly vivid, the song somehow radiates a sparkling brightness—a distinctive charm of 80s music.
Frequently covered and widely loved, this is a love song you’ll want to listen to when you’re ready to move on.
Distance of the Starry SkyTHE ALFEE16rank/position
THE ALFEE is a three-piece rock band that, while rooted in classic rock and folk songs, has gained popularity with tracks that incorporate elements of progressive rock, new music, and metal.
Their 17th single, “Hoshizora no Distance,” used as the theme song for the TV drama Innocent Relationship, is still known today as their signature song.
The intro, which evokes the aesthetic beauty of metal, and the gorgeous choral work achieve a level of perfection that other artists can hardly replicate.
With its superb, timelessly catchy melody, it’s a track we’d love younger listeners to discover anew.
First loveMurashita Kōzō17rank/position
A quintessential unrequited-love song of the Showa era, Kozo Murashita’s masterpiece.
Released in February 1983 as his fifth single, it became a major hit, peaking at No.
3 on the Oricon singles chart.
With its lively melody and delicate lyrics portraying the tender feelings of youthful love, this song remains a classic in the hearts of many.
A monument featuring the song has even been erected in Minamata City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Murashita’s hometown, and it continues to be loved today.
It’s a perfect track for those moments when you want to feel the bittersweetness and transience of first love, or to reminisce about your youth.
Chaco’s Seaside StorySazan Ōrusutāzu18rank/position
Released in January 1982 as the Southern All Stars’ 14th single, this track comes from a band that has secured unwavering popularity since their debut thanks to a uniquely original sound no one can imitate, and they’re also known as a signature band of the J-pop summer scene.
With a musical style that evokes kayōkyoku and Group Sounds, and vocals by Keisuke Kuwata delivered in a manner inspired by Toshihiko Tahara, the song brims with the band’s playful spirit.
Its wistful melody and vividly descriptive lyrics complete a fully realized world, making it an indispensable classic when discussing the Japanese music scene of the 1980s.
TRAIN-TRAINTHE BLUE HEARTS19rank/position
This song, brimming with a sense of speed, weaves in feelings of wanting to escape reality and messages to society.
It depicts a powerful longing for dreams and freedom, along with the pain and inner conflict faced in the process.
It was included on THE BLUE HEARTS’ third album and released in November 1988.
Perfect for those who need the courage to dive into a new environment or who stand at a crossroads in life.
Especially recommended for those about to enter school—an empowering anthem that gives you a strong push forward.
Wine Red Heartanzenchitai20rank/position
This sumptuous song portraying the perilous intricacies of adult romance was released as a single by Anzen Chitai in November 1983.
It gained wide recognition as the image song for Suntory’s Akadama Punch commercial and as the opening theme for the Fuji TV drama “Machigai Darake no Otto Erabi” (“Choosing the Wrong Husband”).
With lyrics by Yosui Inoue and music by Koji Tamaki in perfect harmony, it exquisitely captures the delicate nuances of mature love swaying between reason and passion.
Blending a smooth, moody melody line, an irresistibly swaying beat, and lyrics that exude a sense of danger, the track topped the Oricon weekly chart and sold 714,000 copies, becoming one of Anzen Chitai’s signature songs.
It’s an ideal pick for those who yearn for the allure of adult romance or are seeking a bittersweet, passionate love song.
Popular Oldies and Classic Hits Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Ranking] (21–30)
JUST ONE MORE KISSBUCK-TICK21rank/position
They drew attention with their look featuring dramatically spiked-up hair, then shot straight to stardom.
Their songs, infused with the influence of British rock, all have a powerful, robust backbone.
“Trying To See the Invisible Is a Misunderstanding—It’s All a Misunderstanding” also made waves for its long title.
This track, “JUST ONE MORE KISS,” is one of their signature songs and was used in a commercial for a CD radio-cassette player released by Victor.
Many of you may remember the catchphrase, “The deep bass goes bakuchiku (BUCK-TICK).” It’s nostalgic ’80s romance rock adorned with cool words like angel, devil, and momentary.
It would be a shame not to give it a listen!