[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 Classics] A carefully selected set of uplifting anthems that empower people across generations (21–30)
Runnerbakufū suranpu
Released in 1988 at the end of the Showa era, Bakufu Slump’s “Runner” is a beloved classic that transcends the boundaries of J-pop as a nationwide anthem of encouragement, and it continues to be a staple piece for brass bands cheering at high school baseball games.
Just hearing the famous line from the chorus is enough for even younger generations to instantly recognize the song.
It’s a standout in the band’s signature “youth” vein, and the powerful melody—driven by the band’s robust ensemble and the distinctive vocals of Sunplaza Nakano (now known as Sunplaza Nakano-kun)—fills listeners with so much energy that you can hardly sit still.
Behind “Runner,” however, lies the story of the band’s original bassist, Hojin Egawa, who left the group after this single’s release.
If you listen to the song with the anecdote in mind that Nakano wrote the lyrics while projecting the image of Egawa’s departure onto them, you may discover something new.
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!
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?
Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu
This is one of Kyu Sakamoto’s signature songs; he was active not only as a singer but also as an actor and host.
The piece was created as the theme song for a musical of the same name, and its gentle atmosphere—quietly savoring happiness—leaves a strong impression.
Sakamoto’s voice, combining tenderness and strength, envelops our hearts.
When singing it, cherish a softly conversational feel, and immerse yourself in its world while savoring the moving mood.
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
Speaking of classic Showa-era anime songs, this one has to be it.
It’s the theme song from the wildly popular anime Touch, and it’s still familiar today as a cheer song at high school baseball games.
While it’s a one-sided love song tinged with the heroine’s heartache, the sound is light and accessible pop.
Love inevitably comes with missed connections, frustration, and pain, but it feels like the message is to be bold and “touch”—in other words, take a step forward.
It’s a catchy love song that delights with the thrill and flutter of steadfast, unwavering, deep affection.
