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 Celebration Songs: Showa-Era Birthday Songs (11–20)
The night of my birthdayHarayuko
A single by Yuko Hara, released in March 1982 as her third solo work.
Also known as the keyboardist for Southern All Stars, she delivers a delicate vocal performance that leaves a strong impression.
Centered on the theme of a special night with a loved one, the song paints a scene of yearning while waiting for that person.
The image of the two sharing past memories conveys a warm affection.
Written and composed by Hara herself, the track fully showcases her musical sensibilities.
A nostalgic masterpiece recommended for anyone who wants to cherish time with someone special.
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.
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.
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.
Heart-Pounding ♥ Birthday PartyIwai Sayuri
Iwai Sayuri’s second single, released in 1983 (Showa 58).
It features a classic idol-pop style with a bright, catchy melody.
The lyrics and tune, which capture the excitement and flutter of birthdays, resonated with young people at the time.
Notably, the lyrics make the most of Iwai’s baby-faced look and youthful, innocent vocal tone—she debuted at 14 as the younger sister figure in the “Gin Gae family.” As a song that symbolizes 1980s idol culture, it may be one reason it’s still loved today.
A recommended track for anyone wanting to relive their youth.
Birthday is minus oneWada Kanako
Kanako Wada is a singer-songwriter who enjoys particularly high popularity in the city pop scene.
Released as a single in March 1988, this song is a slightly bittersweet yet charming birthday tune that portrays a relationship with a younger lover.
It rides a sparkling melody to express the worry of growing one year further apart with every birthday, and the gentle words he offers to wrap those feelings in comfort.
The arrangement brims with that signature 80s city pop groove—still so pleasing to listen to today.
Originally included on the acclaimed 1987 album “KANA,” it was also used in a Sunwave commercial.
It’s the perfect number for a special day when you want to celebrate with a sophisticated mood while keeping a touch of sweetness.
In conclusion
This time, we featured birthday songs released in the Showa era—what did you think? Nostalgic as they are, the message celebrating that special day never loses its charm. They’re great picks for karaoke too, so be sure to check them out!