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
80s Singer-Songwriter Artist Rankings [2026] (51–60)
If I could become the winditō ginji57rank/position
A defining song from Ginji Ito’s early solo career was released as a single in May 1977, serving as the lead single from the album Deadly Drive.
The lyrics were written by Ito himself together with Taeko Onuki, while Ito composed and arranged the music, with Ryuichi Sakamoto contributing the string arrangement.
Marked by a gentle melody and delicate arrangements, the track has an urbane pop atmosphere.
Influenced by West Coast sounds and city pop, it showcases Ito’s rich musicality and melodies that resonate with listeners.
Its intertwined themes of freedom and romance have also struck a chord with many.
Rainbow Sea LineSato Hiroshi58rank/position
Celebrating a longing for the far reaches of the sea and sky, this work is one of Hiroshi Sato’s signature songs.
Its brisk rhythm and refreshing melody leave a strong impression, while the urban, stylish sound is truly appealing.
Released in May 1976, the track was included on the album “SUPER MARKET.” Sato’s gentle vocals blend beautifully with the sophisticated arrangement, making it a pioneering piece of city pop.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to feel liberated—like at a summer beach or on a city drive.
As a side note, pay attention to the lyrics, which were penned by none other than Minako Yoshida!
night after nightKurahashi Yoeko59rank/position
Yoeko Kurahashi is known for a style that blends jazz with Japanese popular ballads.
Her song Yonayona Yona portrays her tossing and turning at night, lost in troubling thoughts.
The psychological state is depicted quite realistically, so anyone who’s had similar experiences will likely feel it’s speaking directly to them.
Her uniquely distinctive vocal delivery is also a highlight.
It’s unlike any other singing style, so please give it a listen yourself.
Although the song expresses despair and may initially feel unsettling, it gradually becomes addictive.
Dream FlowerEn Hiroshi60rank/position
This is Hiroshi En’s debut single, and he is still active as a TV personality today.
It was released in November 1978.
The song won the Grand Prix at both the Yamaha Popular Song Contest and the World Popular Song Festival, and was also used in a JAL commercial for its America campaign.
The chorus, which repeats the phrase “Tonde” (“Fly”), is particularly memorable.
Singer-Songwriter/Artist Rankings of the 1980s [2026] (61–70)
Be my bride.Kayama Yūzō61rank/position
As one of the classic songs that colored the Showa era, it has been beloved by many.
Yuzo Kayama’s gentle, warm voice beautifully portrays a romantic declaration of love set against the sea.
Released in June 1966, the song was also used as the theme for a film of the same name, attracting significant attention.
The symbolic lyric about giving a coral ring expresses a wish for a happy future, and the song is often performed at weddings and anniversary celebrations.
This piece is recommended not only for those who love the sea and adventure, but also for anyone who wants to feel a deep bond with someone special.
Sometimes, old storiesKatō Tokiko62rank/position
This is a ballad for adults that brings back fond memories the moment you hear it.
Created by Tokiko Kato, known as a singer-songwriter, it was included on the album “MY STORY/Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo,” released in September 1986, and was issued as a single the following year.
You may also know it as the ending theme of the 1992 film Porco Rosso.
Set to a beautiful waltz of piano and strings, the song looks back on youthful dreams and setbacks, and conversations with friends.
If you play it at a wedding—on the day of a new beginning—during a moment of gratitude to the parents who raised you, the venue is sure to be filled with warm tears.
Why not choose this classic, which conveys both the weight of life and a sense of hope, for your most meaningful moments?
Love, my deepest apologies for troubling you when you are so busy.Harayuko63rank/position
After its original release in 1983, it was reissued as an 8cm single in 1993, made available for download in 2016, and began streaming in 2019—truly a song that has been “loved across generations.” That song is none other than “Koi wa, Gotabō Mōshiagemasu.” The yellow background with a pink caricature of Haru Yuko is catchy, and everything from the typography of the lyrics to the melody is packed with stylish inspiration.
The joyful lyric about “happy days that continue even after summer ends” also connects to the spirit of Southern All Stars, the band Haru belongs to!