[50s] Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings [By Generation]

Don’t give upZARD43rank/position

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

A signature ZARD song known for its powerful, heart-touching message and warm vocals.

Released in January 1993 as the theme song for the drama “Reiko Shiratori desu!” this piece beautifully sings of feelings for a cherished person working hard far away.

Izumi Sakai’s gentle voice conveys encouragement and deep love for a beloved, resulting in a song that feels close to the listener’s heart.

It has been used as the entrance march for the Spring High School Baseball Tournament and in the 24-Hour TV charity marathon, becoming established as a cheering anthem.

It’s a reliable companion when you want to support someone striving toward their dreams—or to rouse your own spirits.

Love Doesn’t Stop ~Turn It Into Love~Wink44rank/position

Love Won’t Stop ~Turn it Into Love~ / Wink [Official Music Video]

A gemlike love song that captures the bittersweet feelings everyone experiences at least once—the unstoppable stirrings of romance that sprout from friendship.

Released in November 1988 and gaining attention as the theme song for the drama “I Want to Chase You!”, the track reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart the following year, selling approximately 645,000 copies.

With a swelling premonition of love in one’s heart and emotions that can’t be contained even after learning the other person already has a partner, this timeless classic speaks to all who resonate with that poignant ache.

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi45rank/position

Cheers

This is one of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s signature works, carrying a warm message of blessing to celebrate new beginnings.

Loved by many as an anthem cheering on those stepping onto life’s big stage, it’s a heartwarming piano folk ballad that gently stands by you and gives you the courage to move forward.

Released in September 1980, the song was born from the feeling of congratulating a friend on their wedding, then re-recorded in 1988 and became a major hit.

It also became familiar as the theme song for Kirin Lager Beer commercials in the 1990s.

It’s a powerful song of encouragement that stays close when you or your friends are at life’s milestones or starting anew, and when you need a lift yourself.

Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji46rank/position

Kenji Sawada – Do As You Please (1977 TMF)

This was Kenji Sawada’s (Julie’s) 19th single overall, released in May 1977.

By now—as of 2023, when I’m writing this—it’s an undisputed masterpiece of Showa-era pop for anyone in their 50s! The moment in the chorus where Sawada throws off his hat was unforgettable.

I still vividly remember putting on makeup to look just like Julie and singing this song at my elementary school party.

It’s a very singable, upbeat number, so by all means try copying the choreography and have fun singing along.

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Kei Takahata

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Slow motionNakamori Akina47rank/position

[Official] Akina Nakamori 'Slow Motion (from “Hajimemashite”)' [1st Single (Released May 1, 1982)] Akina Nakamori / Slow Motion

A gem of a love song that portrays a fateful encounter on the beach as if time itself had stopped.

Its delicate lyrics and harmonious melody leave a striking impression, letting the protagonist’s pounding heartbeat seep into the listener’s own.

Released in May 1982 as Akina Nakamori’s debut single and included on the album “Prologue ,” the song is elevated by Nakamori’s vocals, which blend innocence with allure.

It’s a track perfect for the season of refreshing spring breezes, and anyone who has ever felt the thrill of budding romance is sure to relate.

Why not surrender to the pleasant early-summer wind and bask in those bittersweet memories?

metropoliskurisutaru kingu48rank/position

Daitokai – Crystal King

Speaking of Crystal King, it’s all about the high notes.

Vocalist Masayuki Tanaka’s high-tone voice was very striking.

In the song “Daitokai,” the high-pitched hook right at the start is crucial.

In fact, if you can get through that opening high hook, the rest should be fine.

But suddenly belting out high notes can strain your throat, so it’s better to warm it up beforehand.

I think it’s best to sing a few songs first and then tackle this one.

If you’re confident in your high range, definitely give it a try!

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo49rank/position

Dogwood – Yo Hitoto (Full)

A warm song filled with feelings for a loved one.

Released in February 2004, this track was featured as the theme song for NTV’s “Tuesday Suspense Theater” and used in commercials.

It was also the theme song for a film of the same name starring Yui Aragaki, and has been loved by people of all ages.

Hitoto Yo’s gentle vocals and the heartfelt lyrics are especially captivating.

With wishes for peace and prayers for the happiness of loved ones woven into it, it’s perfect for expressing your feelings to someone special.

It’s also recommended for special occasions like weddings and anniversaries.