Lovely Christmas

[J-Pop] Showa-era Christmas songs: nostalgic yet fresh Christmas classics

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

As Christmas draws near, we hear Christmas songs everywhere—from city streets to the radio.

What kind of Christmas songs do you like?

In this article, we’re featuring Japanese Christmas songs released in the Showa era!

Focusing on hit songs, we’ve selected a variety ranging from timeless classics that have been passed down for years to tracks with a refined charm.

For those who experienced them in real time, it’s a chance to look back with fond memories.

And for anyone curious about Showa-era Christmas songs, there may be new discoveries in store.

Make them the perfect companion to a wonderful Christmas!

[Japanese Music] Showa-era Christmas Songs: Nostalgic yet Fresh Classics (41–50)

Christmas Dayofukōsu

Christmas Day

Christmas Dayofukōsu

A heartwarming number that evokes the arrival of winter.

It beautifully portrays a Christmas night that makes the hearts of little children and lovers flutter.

Characterized by majestic choral work, it weaves a gentle moment that stays close to the listener’s heart.

Released on December 1, 1981, as the B-side to the single “Ai no Naka e.” The simple arrangement, quintessentially Off Course, is especially appealing.

Perfect for taking a breather in the midst of busy days or for a quiet Christmas night spent with someone special.

Celebrated as a classic that conveys the charm of a Showa-era Christmas to the present day, it continues to be loved by listeners of all ages.

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Sha-la-laSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars Sha La La

Sha-la-laSazan Ōrusutāzu

A moody Christmas song by Southern All Stars, also known as “Southern,” released as a double A-side with “Gomen ne Charlie.” The fact that it came out in 1980 really makes you feel how quickly time flies—and how amazing Southern are.

It’s also unusual that the duet with Haru Yoko becomes the single as is.

The mature lyrics—which can be read as “Since it’s Christmas night, I’d rather not think about anyone but you”—completely seal away Kuwata’s usual sense of humor.

I think this Christmas song is a classic in the tender, mellow side of Southern!

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Taki no namida pin ku

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In conclusion

We featured Christmas songs released in the Showa era.

From timeless classics that have been passed down for years to Christmas songs with a refined atmosphere, there was quite a variety.

Please find the Christmas songs that suit your taste and take your time enjoying them.