Timeless classics only! Showa-era hit songs perfect for acoustic sing-alongs
When you hear “solo acoustic performance,” many people probably picture Showa-era folk songs.
In recent years, thanks to the influence of social media and streaming services, many beloved classics have seen a revival, making it easier for people of all generations to enjoy timeless songs.
This time, we’re introducing a selection of Showa-era tracks that are perfect for solo acoustic performances.
Each song features the warm, resonant tones of the acoustic guitar that truly touch the heart—so be sure to find your new favorite!
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- A roundup of classic Showa-era kayō songs: a comprehensive introduction to timeless tracks loved across generations.
- A classic Japanese folk song passed down through generations of acoustic performances
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- Songs I'd love to hear on acoustic guitar! Reiwa-era masterpieces perfect for sing-alongs
- Popular Showa-era pop. Timeless hit songs.
- When you can’t decide what to sing at karaoke: Easy-to-sing classic hits from the Showa era
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- A Showa-era song that had a revival hit on YouTube Shorts
Nothing but timeless classics! Showa-era hit songs recommended for acoustic self-accompaniment (1–10)
loveMatsuyama Chiharu
Known as one of Chiharu Matsuyama’s signature songs, this piece portrays the pain of heartbreak and the emotions of a woman.
It delicately expresses the complex feelings of a woman who continues to love despite being weary from romance.
Released in 1980 as his eighth single, it has since been included on various albums.
It appears on albums such as “Kishōtenketsu II” and “Tabidachi,” holding an important place throughout Matsuyama’s musical career.
Resonating with those who have experienced heartbreak or struggle with love, it’s a perfect choice for karaoke or acoustic guitar performances.
Sugarcane fieldMoriyama Ryoko
Known as a classic that colors the Showa-era pop scene, this piece carries lyrics that weave sorrow over war and a wish for peace, resonating with many hearts.
The melody, sung over the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar, evokes deep emotion.
First recorded in 1969 on the album “Ryoko Moriyama College Folk Album No.
2,” it has been cherished ever since.
Performed as a solo with guitar, it would surely become a song that deeply touches listeners.
Let me have that wonderful love once moreKatō Kazuhiko, Kitayama Osamu
A masterpiece woven from wistfulness and beauty, this gem was created by Kazuhiko Kato and Osamu Kitayama.
With the remarkable backstory of having been completed in just two days, it was released in April 1971 and has continued to capture the hearts of many for decades.
The lyrics, which sing of a powerful desire to reclaim a lost love, resonate deeply with listeners.
Its beautiful scenic imagery is also striking.
Covered by various artists and featured in choral competitions, it remains a beloved song across generations.
It’s a perfect choice when you want to look back on memories with someone dear, or when you long to hear a voice that truly touches the heart.
Nothing but timeless classics! Showa-era hit songs (11–20) recommended for sing-and-play performances
Imperial Regent Declarationsadamasashi
A song that skillfully portrays the complex feelings of a man on the verge of marriage, laced with humor.
In the lyrics, he declares himself the boss at home, yet they are imbued with deep love and respect for his wife.
Released in July 1979, the track captured many hearts, reaching as high as No.
2 on TBS’s The Best Ten.
At concerts, it’s customary for the audience to sing along during the ending.
It’s a heartwarming number that depicts a charmingly clumsy form of love and is great for karaoke.
It’s a perfect piece for solo acoustic performance, brimming with the appeal of Masashi Sada.
If I’m wrapped in kindnessArai Yumi
A timeless classic cherished across generations for its warm melody and heartening lyrics.
Released in April 1974 as Yumi Arai’s third single, this song gently sings of gratitude and the importance of love.
It drew renewed attention when it was used as the ending theme for the film Kiki’s Delivery Service, and has since been embraced by a wide audience.
Wrapped in the soothing tones of acoustic guitar, it’s a perfect song to revisit when you want to remember your feelings of gratitude for someone special.
Goodbye, Humanitytama
This song captured the hearts of many with its fantastical worldview and distinctive melody.
The lyrics, depicting environmental destruction and changes in ecosystems, ignite the listener’s imagination.
Its themes, which suggest cycles of human evolution and degeneration, invite deep reflection.
Released on May 5, 1990, the track reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was also performed at that year’s 41st NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, thrusting it into the spotlight.
Additionally, it was used in a commercial for Takara Shuzo’s “Jun Aleph,” helping it gain popularity across a wide audience.
When performing it as a solo acoustic piece, consider preserving its unique atmosphere while singing in a way that resonates deeply with listeners.
cosmos (flower)Yamaguchi Momoe
A classic hit by Momoe Yamaguchi that portrays the tender love between parent and child.
Released in 1977 as her 19th single, this gem was written and composed by Masashi Sada.
The lyrics, in which a daughter about to be married expresses gratitude to her mother, use the fragile cosmos flower as a symbol to convey delicate emotions.
The song received high acclaim, with Yamaguchi winning the Vocalist Award at the 19th Japan Record Awards.
Combining her gentle voice with Sada’s heartwarming words, it is often performed at weddings and other life milestones.
Beloved across generations, it’s a perfect number for a simple voice-and-guitar rendition.