Singer-Songwriter/Artist Rankings of the 1980s [2026]
The 1980s were an era when artists like Eiichi Ohtaki, Miyuki Nakajima, and Shinji Tanimura—names even younger people may have heard—were active.
Here, we’re introducing songs by singer-songwriters from the 1980s, including those artists.
What kind of music did singer-songwriters from the bubble era create?
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
- Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- Masterpieces and hit songs of 80s Japanese pop (kayōkyoku)
- 1990s Male Singer-Songwriters: Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s
- Ranking of Popular Songs by Female Singer-Songwriters of the 1990s [2026]
- 1970s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Ranking]
- A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 1980s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese pop idols of the 80s
1980s Singer-Songwriter/Artist Rankings [2026] (31–40)
Ro-Ro-Ro-Russian RouletteNakahara Meiko36rank/position
Dirty Pair, which began airing in 1985, is an anime set in a futuristic world.
It follows Kei and Yuri, a pair of beautiful trouble consultants with the codename “Lovely Angels,” as they solve a variety of problems.
The opening theme, sung by Meiko Nakahara—who also scored a big hit with “Kimitachi Kiwi Papaya Mango da ne”—is a track richly infused with late-1980s pop sensibilities that really captures the spirit of the era.
Riverside HotelInoue Yosui37rank/position
This song, released as a single in 1982, only reached 54 on the charts and fell short of being a hit.
Later, it was chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “New York Love Story” and was re-released in 1988, becoming a major success.
Its bewitching, jazzy sound and lyrics that create a strange, almost wordplay-like world give it an addictive charm.
An adult, luxurious love song.
X’mas PartyHarada Shinji38rank/position
This is an original Christmas song by Shinji Harada, a singer-songwriter who achieved idol-like popularity in the 80s and sings in a piano-and-vocal style.
It depicts the hustle and bustle of the city at Christmas.
The urgent-sounding piano fits the song perfectly.
CHRISTMAS CHORUSKomuro Tetsuya39rank/position
This song—written, composed, arranged, and produced by Tetsuya Komuro himself—features Naoto Kine’s acoustic guitar and the Suginami Children’s Choir adding a touch of warmth.
Released in December 1989 as a solo single from EPIC/Sony Records, it’s a romantic ballad that expresses sincere feelings for a lover amid fantastical imagery like a silver messenger and moonlight.
The chorus includes phrases celebrating both Christmas and the New Year, cleverly designed to be sung throughout the holiday season.
Peaking at No.
2 on the Oricon weekly chart, the track charms with its warm blend of acoustic sounds and synthesizers—perfect for those winter nights when you think of someone special.
While shining…Tokunaga Hideaki40rank/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.
Singer-Songwriter/Artist Rankings of the 1980s [2026] (41–50)
Come back.Matsumura Kazuko41rank/position
Under the catchphrase “The Return of the Men’s Enka (Yanshū),” Kazuko Matsumura made her debut with this song in 1980.
Her long hair and the striking way she handled the Tsugaru shamisen like a guitar left a strong impression.
Despite being a debut song, it became a hit and won the New Artist Award at the 22nd Japan Record Awards.
WaveKadamatsu Toshiki42rank/position
The final track from their debut album “SEA BREEZE,” released in 1981.
It’s a beautiful ballad you’ll want to listen to on a summer sunset beach.
Its bittersweet, mellow chord progression and melody feel luxurious and bubbly, evoking both the buoyant spirit of the booming ’80s and the poignancy of a summer romance’s end.
A hidden summer gem cherished by fans.