The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
The Showa era produced countless timeless masterpieces and legendary artists loved across generations.
In recent years, with the rise of streaming services, it’s become increasingly common to see songs from the Showa period enjoy revival hits.
This time, we’re introducing tear-jerker songs that were born in that Showa era.
While the times and social backdrop differ from today, we’ve compiled a wide-ranging list—from moving tracks to heartrending ones—so you’re sure to find something that resonates with you.
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The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at the heartstrings. Shōwa-era tearjerker songs (11–20)
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
A song by Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi known as a tear-jerking, cry-your-eyes-out ballad.
Included on the album “Kanpai,” it’s often sung at life’s milestones such as weddings and graduation ceremonies as an anthem of encouragement.
The lyrics, which sing of the importance of moving forward with love and conviction no matter the hardships, are filled with blessings and support for those stepping onto a new stage in life.
Released in September 1980, the song was even featured in music textbooks.
Covered by numerous musicians, it remains a timeless classic beloved by people of all ages today.
cosmos (flower)Yamaguchi Momoe
This is the 19th single by Momoe Yamaguchi, known as a singer emblematic of the Showa era.
Written and composed by Masashi Sada, the song—released in October 1977—expresses a bride-to-be’s gratitude to her mother.
The lyrics, which use the fragile cosmos flower as a symbol, beautifully capture the delicate emotions of a woman on the verge of marriage.
Blending Yamaguchi’s gentle vocals with Sada’s heartwarming words, it became a classic that has left a deep impression on many.
Frequently performed at weddings and other life milestones, it continues to be cherished across generations.
A woman born in OsakaBORO
Set in Showa-era Osaka, this signature song by BORO gives voice to a bittersweet love and quiet resolve.
The lyrics, reflecting the trends of the time, capture the end of youth while expressing feelings for a beloved.
Released in August 1979, the track became a major hit, selling a total of 179,000 copies on the Oricon charts.
The work portrays a woman whose affection for Osaka intersects with her determination to embark on a new life, making it especially resonant for those who relate to the tug-of-war between hometown pride and romantic love.
Its nostalgic, aching vocals may just bring tears to your eyes.
Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenKawashima Eigo
A signature work by Eigo Kawashima, etched in many hearts as a classic of the Showa era.
The lyrics, which portray the differences between men’s and women’s expressions of sorrow through alcohol and tears, resonate deeply.
Released in June 1976, the song was also used in a commercial for Kizakura Sake Brewery and became a major hit.
Its melody, infused with folk elements, and Kawashima’s powerful vocals are captivating.
It’s a track that offers empathy and solace when you’re feeling life’s hardships and loneliness.
Hugely popular at karaoke, it continues to be sung across generations.
I’ll wait.amin
Released in July 1982 as their debut single, the song is known as the signature work of the female duo Amin.
Its lyrics, depicting a bittersweet love, and its clear, transparent harmonies make it a classic that resonates with many.
The song topped the Oricon annual sales chart and became a massive hit with total sales exceeding 1.2 million copies.
It was also featured in numerous commercials, including Toyota’s “Duet” and SoftBank Mobile’s “ULTRA Wi-Fi,” making it a familiar tune to many.
Delicately expressing the complex feelings of a woman in love, this piece offers solace to those who have experienced heartbreak or harbor unrequited feelings.
ShipwreckNakamori Akina
An emotionally rich ballad depicting a woman’s heart adrift in deep loneliness after losing the one she loves.
Originally released by Tokiko Kato in 1984, the song was covered by Akina Nakamori in 1987 and performed at the 38th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
While her mind tells her to “give up,” her emotions overflow and drive her to want to chase after her beloved—feelings that Nakamori’s sultry vocals express to perfection.
The song won the Gold Prize at the 29th Japan Record Awards and topped the Oricon charts, achieving an astonishing 410,000 copies sold.
It has also inspired numerous covers by renowned artists such as Kaori Momoi and Tomomi Kahala.
A gem of a masterpiece to listen to alone, quietly, when heartbreak leaves you on the verge of breaking.
Listening to OliviaAnri
A melody that gently envelops the lingering ache of a bittersweet romance, paired with refined musicianship, resonates deeply in the heart.
The lyrics, which carefully depict a woman healing her delicate emotions after a breakup while listening to Olivia Newton-John’s songs, have struck a chord with many.
With Anri’s clear, translucent vocals giving the piece a sophisticated, urban feel, it was released in November 1978 and included on the album “Anri.” In 2008, it was also featured as an insert song in the Nippon TV drama “Saito-san,” cementing its status as a timeless classic loved across generations.
This warm ballad offers comfort to those trying to recover from the pain of heartbreak and to anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.
In conclusion
How was it? This time, we introduced tear-jerker songs born in the Showa era. Even if you’re not from that generation, these are all famous tracks you’ve probably heard at least once. I hope you can feel a different atmosphere from the Heisei and Reiwa eras.