Showa Era Popular Artist Rankings [2026]

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi85rank/position

Cheers

In spring, when new chapters begin, it’s reassuring to have music that gently gives a push to backs filled with both hope and anxiety.

This song, one of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s signature works, is one you should listen to especially when starting school or a new life.

It was originally included on the album “Kampai,” released in September 1980, but a re-recorded version released as a single in February 1988 became a massive hit, selling over a million copies.

With a warm backstory—said to have been written to celebrate a friend’s wedding—it has been loved across generations, even being featured as the song for a Kirin Lager Beer commercial in 2010.

The blessings and encouragement woven into the lyrics are sure to be a powerful cheer for those embarking on the journey of life.

It’s truly a Japanese anthem of support, the kind you’ll want to sing arm in arm with friends during cherry blossom season.

heavy rainTHE MODS86rank/position

THE MODS “Heavy Rain” (taken from “Live EPIC 25”) One-night-only screening on Monday, August 21!

A song that expresses passionate feelings hidden in the heart while being battered by heavy rain.

Known as one of THE MODS’ signature tracks, it was released as a single in September 1983.

Its exhilarating, fast-paced melody and powerful vocals are deeply moving.

Chosen for a Maxell commercial, it became a memorable tune for many.

The lyrics convey a desire to escape everyday life and a yearning for change.

Perfect for anyone wanting to feel the exhilaration of racing through the rain.

It might even give you a cleansing sensation when you listen to it while driving.

huge nuisanceUNICORN87rank/position

Unicorn - “Great Nuisance”

This is the debut single by UNICORN, a five-member rock band that disbanded in 1993 and reunited in 2009.

Although the lyrics lament the woes of the office worker, the song’s upbeat, driving feel keeps the melancholy at bay, making it one of UNICORN’s signature numbers both before their breakup and after their reunion.

The guitar solo features very fast phrases; in the band score supervised by UNICORN, while the first half is notated, the latter half is cheekily labeled only as “Demon Right Hand,” showcasing UNICORN’s playful spirit even in their official band scores.

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Asakusa KidBīto Takeshi88rank/position

Beat Takeshi Asakusa Kid 090320

A classic song set in the downtown neighborhoods of the Showa era, portraying youthful dreams and friendship.

Beat Takeshi’s distinctive storytelling style and the simple yet deeply moving melody are truly captivating.

Included on the August 1986 album Asakusa Kid, this piece is said to have been born on the location set of the film Yasha.

Covers by various artists—such as Masaharu Fukuyama and Masaki Suda—also drew attention.

It’s a warm, inspiring anthem that I hope reaches those chasing their dreams or standing at a crossroads in life.

My loverGorin Mayumi89rank/position

Mayumi Itsuwa “My Lover” / Mayumi Itsuwa “My Only Love”

This is Mayumi Itsuwa’s signature song, cherished by many as one of the defining ballads of the Showa era.

Released in August 1980, it achieved the remarkable feat of reaching number one on the Oricon weekly chart.

Beloved in countries such as South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, this work is a poignant love song centered on lost love and parting.

Itsuwa’s clear, pure vocals and the lyrically vivid imagery leave a lasting impression.

The lyrics skillfully portray expressions that evoke the changing seasons and the inability to accept a breakup with a lover.

It’s a highly recommended track for anyone who has lost someone important or seeks to heal the pain of a broken heart.

bullseyeYamamoto Rinda90rank/position

Linda Yamamoto – Shot at the Target (Official Audio)

Linda Yamamoto’s signature song is gaining popularity on Instagram Reels.

It’s known for its memorable phrases and lyrics that exude a mischievous, coquettish charm.

The song portrays a confident woman and sings about the strength to make the most of one’s allure.

Released in February 1973, it reached No.

14 on the Oricon chart and led to her return to the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen in 1991 after 17 years.

It’s also beloved as a baseball cheer song and remains a staple at high school baseball games even after more than 50 years.

This is a recommended track for those seeking a nostalgic vibe or a boost of confidence.

Wax MuseumSeikima II91rank/position

THE HOUSE OF WAX (The House of Wax – Japanese ver.)

Seikima-II’s songs, created as part of their long-running mission to conquer the Earth since the Showa era, are perfect for Halloween.

This particular track, a shocking piece released in April 1986, depicts the terror of a girl being turned into a wax doll in a mansion deep in the forest.

The lyrics hint at a brutal incident and the fear of losing tomorrow within it, sending chills down the listener’s spine.

The song was also used as an insert track in the anime Beelzebub.

It’s a highly recommended pick when you want to create a scary atmosphere at a Halloween party.