A classic from the good old days! A famous birthday song born in the Showa era.
In every era, there are so many great songs that celebrate birthdays.
If you listen not only to the latest tracks but also to the gems from the good old days, you might make some new discoveries.
So this time, we’re introducing birthday songs released in the Showa era.
We’ve put together a wide-ranging list, from upbeat numbers perfect for celebrations to nostalgic tunes.
While few of them were A-side singles, you can enjoy hidden masterpieces by famous artists.
- Birthday songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke and dedicate to someone. Lovely songs for a wonderful birthday.
- A roundup of classic Showa-era kayō songs: a comprehensive introduction to timeless tracks loved across generations.
- A moving birthday song to give on someone’s special day. A birthday song so heartfelt it could bring you to tears.
- Songs for birthdays you’ll want to listen to and give—birthday songs with lyrics that touch the heart
- Birthday songs recommended for women: classic and popular Japanese hits
- Brighten your special day with happiness! A birthday song born in the Reiwa era
- Nostalgic yet new! Hit songs from the Showa era you’ll want to use as BGM
- Recommended Japanese birthday songs to give on someone's birthday
- Songs to give for an 88th-birthday celebration (Beiju). Heartwarming classics and popular tunes.
- Songs to gift for longevity celebrations: heartwarming classics and popular tunes about life
- Background music for a birthday party. A roundup of recommended birthday songs
- Make your once-a-year special day dazzling! A birthday song born in the Heisei era
- Showa-era love songs: A roundup of timeless love songs cherished across generations
Chic celebratory song: Showa-era birthday songs (1–10)
Two People’s BirthdaySano Motoharu
Masatoshi Sano’s song, known as a classic from the Showa era, sings about the importance of revisiting dreams and memories that are easily lost in everyday life.
Included on the album SOMEDAY, this pop-rock track was written and composed by Sano.
Characterized by a light, upbeat rhythm and melody, it captures both the excitement of a relationship just beginning with the first exchange of words and the dreams and memories woven into daily life.
Released in 1982 as Sano’s third studio album, SOMEDAY holds a significant place in Japan’s rock scene.
It’s a heartwarming number you’ll want to play when celebrating a birthday or recalling special moments with someone dear.
HAPPY BIRTHDAYGO-BANG’S
This song is included on GO-BANG’S’ major-label debut album “Gobanic Land,” released in May 1988.
Riding on a light, poppy melody, it conveys the joy of celebrating a birthday and feelings of gratitude.
Kaori Moriwaka’s distinctive vocals and energetic performance further enhance the song’s appeal.
The story that Kiyoshiro Imawano discovered the band also seems to have great significance in their career.
It’s a popular track often played live, known for firing up the audience.
It’s perfect not only as background music for a birthday party, but also for times when you want to express your appreciation to someone special.
Happy Birthday in TearsShaneruzu
A heartrending birthday song from The Chanels.
It conveys the protagonist’s complex feelings after falling in love with a friend’s partner, set to a sweet doo-wop melody.
Masayuki Suzuki’s soulful vocals and the group’s signature harmonies truly resonate.
Released in 1982 as the B-side to the single “Weekend Dynamite,” this track is a profound work that depicts the ache of unrequited love, along with the hope and despair within it.
In contrast to the festive atmosphere of the birthday party, you can feel the protagonist’s inner turmoil.
It’s a must-listen for anyone struggling with love or feeling nostalgic for their youth.
Chic Celebration Songs: Showa-Era Birthday Songs (11–20)
Kittens of the Apple ForestIijima Mari
The song, born in 1983 as the ending theme for the anime “Spoon Oba-san,” captivates with Mari Iijima’s light, lively vocals and Takashi Matsumoto’s poetic lyrics.
Its fantastic world—featuring a party of kittens set in an apple forest—leaves a memorable impression.
Kyōhei Tsutsumi’s bright melody is loved by listeners of all ages, from children to adults.
It’s a classic that warms the heart, perfect for relaxing before bedtime or as background music for family time.
Happy BirthdaySazan Ōrusutāzu
This piece, included on the album KAMAKURA released in September 1985, is Southern All Stars’ first-ever birthday song.
Its brisk ensemble and poppy melody create an atmosphere perfectly suited to celebrating a birthday.
Filled with a message that blesses precious moments with a loved one, it continues to shine without fading as a classic from the Showa era beloved by generations.
A catchy number that adds a festive touch to any birthday.
Tears on My BirthdayHOUND DOG
A ballad released in September 1982 by HOUND DOG, a rock band emblematic of the Showa era.
Its lyrics tell a heartrending story of breaking up with a lover on one’s 20th birthday, and Kohei Otomo’s powerful vocals make it a classic that resonates deeply.
The lyrics, expressing the fragility of youth and the pain of heartbreak, struck a chord with listeners.
The track fuses the band’s signature simple yet energetic rock sound with a distinctly Japanese kayō-rock sensibility.
It remains a live favorite and an indispensable song among fans.
A gem of a love song that speaks to the heart, it’s recommended for anyone who has experienced parting with someone precious or who feels nostalgic for their youth.
Happy BirthdayInoue Yosui
A song included on singer-songwriter Yosui Inoue’s album Nishōku no Koma, released in October 1974, representing the Showa-era music scene.
It features unique lyrics that weave in elements of card games and a light, pop sound reminiscent of the Beatles.
While themed around a birthday, it conveys a warm atmosphere that evokes human connection and affection for loved ones.
Its distinctive lyrics and melody have long been cherished by many fans, making it a track you might want to share as a gift with someone special on their birthday.