[Showa-Era Classics] A carefully selected collection of uplifting anthems that empower people across generations
Even after all this time, the classic songs of the Showa era still resonate with many people and give us strength, don’t they?
In this article, we’ll introduce uplifting songs from among the many beloved Showa hits!
We’ve gathered a variety of anthems: songs with powerful messages that fire you up, gentle tunes that give you a soft “you can do it” push, and tracks that fill you with energy and smiles.
Whether you lived through the Showa era or belong to a generation that didn’t, you’re sure to find at least one song that speaks to you!
Be sure to add one of these to your personal collection of motivational songs.
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[Showa-era Masterpieces] A carefully selected collection of uplifting anthems that empower all generations (11–20)
In the Great Sky and on the Vast EarthMatsuyama Chiharu
Some of you may picture the majestic nature of Hokkaido.
This is an encouraging song about life by folk singer Chiharu Matsuyama.
After being included on the album “A Song Made for You,” released in June 1977, a newly recorded version was produced in 1998 as the B-side to the single “I Love You Most in This World.” Its powerful message—grab happiness with your own two hands—continues to spur on those who are trying to take on a challenge.
Featured on the soundtrack of the drama “The Ugly Duckling” and used in numerous commercials, it has become a long-loved standard.
As the school admission season brings a leap into new environments, be sure to give this classic a listen to blow away those anxious feelings.
Life’s journeyMisora Hibari
A signature song by a diva who epitomized the Showa-era pop scene continues to resonate in many people’s hearts.
With its powerful message and Hibari Misora’s overwhelming vocal performance, this uplifting anthem offers courage and hope to face life’s hardships.
Released in January 1970, the piece was created as the theme song for the Shochiku film “Hibari Misora and Shinichi Mori: Flowers, Tears, and Flame.” It holds special meaning for Hibari Misora and was also performed at her 1988 Tokyo Dome concert.
It’s a song that gently supports those about to embark on a new challenge or facing difficult times.
My RevolutionWatanabe Misato
“My Revolution,” a song that stands out as one of the most famous J-pop anthems and one of Misato Watanabe’s signature tracks.
Released as a single in 1986, it topped the Oricon charts and won the Gold Prize at the 28th Japan Record Awards, earning high acclaim and becoming one of the quintessential hits of the ’80s that many people immediately think of.
Watanabe’s straightforward vocals at the age of 19 and the powerful lyrics penned by Masumi Kawamura offer the courage to take a step forward.
Interestingly, the composer of the song is none other than Tetsuya Komuro.
At the time, he was active with TM Network, but wasn’t yet widely known to the general public.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the success of this track sparked Komuro’s emergence as a hit-making songwriter.
Furthermore, the arrangement was handled by Masaaki Omura, who deepened J-pop with innovative ideas and produced numerous hits.
It’s fascinating to think that if even one of these key people had been missing, this masterpiece might never have come into being.
March of 365 StepsSuizenji Kiyoko
It’s one of those classic Showa-era hits that you can recognize the moment the first phrase plays—and it’s still loved today in the Reiwa era! Released in 1968 by Kiyoko Suizenji, who remains active as both a singer and actress, the Showa kayō masterpiece “365-Step March” became a million seller.
Coming out in the midst of Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, the song is marked by a breezy, robust energy and an overwhelming positivity that seems to embody a time when the whole country was brimming with vitality.
Although Suizenji, known primarily as an enka singer, was reportedly initially reluctant about this more pop-style number, it goes without saying that her voice is what makes it a true classic.
If you’re looking to lift your spirits or need a little push forward, belt out this song and get your energy back!
Say Yes!Kikuchi Momoko
Say Yes! was released in September 1986 as Momoko Kikuchi’s ninth single, representing the quintessential ’80s idol sound.
This refreshing up-tempo track is also known for its creators: lyrics by Masao Urino and music by Tetsuji Hayashi.
As the title suggests, it carries a positive message that affirms everything, blowing away listeners’ anxieties.
It topped the Oricon charts and The Best Ten, and was later included on the album ESCAPE FROM DIMENSION.
It’s also famous for having been performed on 24-Hour Television prior to its release.
As the season of new school admissions brings a major turning point filled with both anticipation and nerves, her gentle voice and sparkling melody will give you the courage to take that first step!
Oneway GenerationHonda Minako
Minako Honda, during her idol days, was striking for her cute looks and sparkling smile.
Her song “Oneway Generation” is a pep number with a Showa-style rhythm that sticks in your ears.
I feel like Showa-era songs often have elements that somehow lift your spirits.
Maybe it’s that pleasantly light feeling—like Minako Honda in this track, singing and dancing as if she’s having fun.
The lyrics layered over the rhythmic sound deliver cheers to anyone with a dream.
When a song fits your heart, doesn’t your mood gradually rise?
[Showa-era Classics] A carefully selected set of uplifting anthems that empower people across generations (21–30)
YOUNG MAN (Y.M.C.A.)Saijō Hideki
Armed with his handsome looks and unusually tall figure for a Japanese singer, Hideki Saijo was hailed as one of the “New Big Three” and enjoyed immense popularity, with his powerful vocals and performances also highly acclaimed.
When he sadly passed away in 2018, it became national news and many fans mourned his loss.
Among the many hit songs sung by “Hideki,” perhaps the definitive cheer song is Young Man (Y.M.C.A.), released in 1979! It’s a cover of the Village People’s hit Y.M.C.A., a disco group popular in America, reimagined as a kind of anthem to youth—many of you have probably tried imitating its distinctive choreography.
It was even chosen as the marching song for the 52nd National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, making it, just as its Japanese title suggests, Hideki’s own cheer song for young people.
Whether you’re studying for exams, playing sports, or dealing with romance, if you’re a young person struggling with worries, listen to Saijo’s voice and break out of your shell!