In the Reiwa era, short videos like YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Instagram Reels are all the rage.
Among them, music is indispensable.
So this time, we’re introducing Showa-era songs that became revival hits on YouTube Shorts!
If you regularly keep up with social media, I’m sure there are some tunes you’ve heard—so be sure to read to the end!
All of these revival hits are super catchy, so you might just get hooked.
Let’s get started!
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Showa-era songs that made a revival hit on YouTube Shorts (1–10)
Midnight Door ~ Stay With MeMatsubara Miki
A classic city pop song that conveys the atmosphere of the 1980s to the present.
Released in November 1979 as Miki Matsubara’s debut single, it peaked at No.
28 on the Oricon charts.
The song portrays the poignant feelings of a woman waiting late at night for a lover who doesn’t come home, highlighted by Matsubara’s jazzy, sultry vocals.
It was also included on the album “POCKET PARK,” with slight differences between the single and album versions.
The lyrics, depicting emotions that live on in lost love and memories, resonate with many and explain why the song is cherished across generations.
Its emo vibe has regained popularity on YouTube Shorts.
Lullaby of a Serrated HeartChekkāzu
A classic hit from the Showa era is enjoying a revival in today’s times.
This song has been gaining popularity on YouTube Shorts.
Known as The Checkers’ debut single, it features distinctive lyrics that depict the rebellious feelings of youth.
Its 7-5 rhythmic pattern and sharp guitar sound leave a strong impression, drawing attention on YouTube Shorts.
Released in September 1983, the track was reappraised following its success the following year.
It was also used in the TV drama “Uchi no Ko ni Kagitte…,” becoming beloved by many.
On short-form videos, it seems to be trending to post youthful photos accompanied by personal anecdotes.
TATTOONakamori Akina
This song, where nostalgia and freshness coexist, is back in the spotlight thanks to YouTube Shorts.
Akina Nakamori’s powerful vocals and distinctive worldview are captivating a new generation.
Released in May 1988, the track topped the Oricon charts and held the No.
1 spot on The Best Ten for two consecutive weeks.
Its innovative arrangement—fusing big band sounds with jungle beats—is another major draw.
The lyrics, centered on self-transformation and the pursuit of love, carry a message that resonates with today’s youth.
It’s a perfect pick for anyone who wants to express their individuality on social media.
Cotton HandkerchiefŌta Hiromi
A Showa-era classic has become a revival hit in the Reiwa era! This song is hugely popular on YouTube Shorts as well.
Hiromi Ohta’s clear, delicate voice and the bittersweet love story make it a track that truly touches the heart.
Released in 1975, it became a massive hit, selling 867,000 copies.
As a song that bridged folk and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular music), it brought a fresh breeze to the music scene of the time.
The lyrics—evoking the sadness of a long-distance relationship and the contrast between city life and one’s hometown—remain deeply relatable to many even today.
It’s perfect for short videos to create a nostalgic mood.
An ideal pick for fans of love songs or anyone searching for something nostalgically timeless.
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
Classic Shōwa-era songs are enjoying revival hits on TikTok and YouTube Shorts.
The lyrics of Yoshimi Iwasaki’s song for a coming-of-age anime skillfully express feelings of love and heartbreak.
With impactful phrases penned by lyricist Chinfa Kan, it brilliantly captures the deep emotions of youth.
Released in 1985, the song is also included on the album “Touch” and is beloved by anime fans.
Composed and arranged by Hiroaki Serizawa, the intro—especially Ken Yajima’s guitar performance—is particularly memorable.
With its catchy melody and nostalgic vibe, it’s one of the popular tracks on YouTube Shorts.
Runnerbakufū suranpu
Known as one of Bakufu Slump’s signature songs, this track evokes both poignancy and the energy of youth.
It depicts young people who keep on running, with memorable lyrics that dream of a day when we can open our hearts and speak honestly.
Released in October 1988, it was featured as background music on the TV show ‘Tensai! Takeshi no Genki ga Deru TV’ and used in a Hitachi video commercial.
Since then, it has continued to be covered by various artists.
It’s a perfect song for those nostalgic about their youth or anyone striving toward their dreams.
Its catchy melody is likely one reason for its popularity on YouTube Shorts.
A Member of the Fire BrigadeRATS&STAR
This song portrays a “stylish incident” sparked by the appearance of a charming woman on a summer seaside stage.
Released in April 1983, it was the first single after the group changed its name to Rats & Star.
With its catchy melody and distinctive choreography, it topped the Oricon Singles Chart and became a massive hit, selling over 600,000 copies.
It was also loved by many, ranking 10th on the year-end charts.
The track captures a fleeting summer romance on the beach with an upbeat rhythm and has enjoyed a revival through platforms like YouTube Shorts.
It’s the perfect song for those who want to get into a summer mood or enjoy a nostalgic Showa-era classic.