Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
When you hear the phrase “moving songs,” what kind of tracks come to mind?
In every era, music that stirs the emotions has enriched people’s hearts.
That said, the shape of what moves us today in the Reiwa era likely feels a bit different from what moved us in earlier times.
So this time, we’re introducing some moving songs that colored the Showa era.
From pieces with grand themes and sweeping ensembles to songs that sing of single-hearted devotion, we’ve compiled a wide-ranging list.
We hope you’ll enjoy these timeless tunes while feeling the breeze of their era.
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Evokes the good old days. Beloved even today: Moving Showa-era songs (11–20)
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
The song included on Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s third album is known as a moving anthem often sung at life’s milestones such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.
Characterized by powerful vocals and a grand arrangement, it’s a number that resonates deeply with listeners.
Released in September 1980, the track later became a hit again with a re-recorded single version in 1988, and it has been featured on numerous television programs with special performances.
The lyrics, filled with support and congratulations for those stepping onto a new stage in life, teach the importance of moving forward with love and conviction no matter the difficulties.
It’s a heartwarming song perfect for celebrating a fresh start.
A Tearful RequestChekkāzu
The Checkers were an idol group that enjoyed immense popularity among women.
Because they were aimed at a slightly younger audience, they might not be a perfect fit for women in their 60s; still, many will have heard their songs often.
Among their tracks, Namida no Request is a particularly crowd-pleasing piece.
Although it’s categorized as a ballad, it isn’t subdued; rather, it features an upbeat melody.
The vocal range is somewhat broad at mid1 F# to high D#, but since the midrange is the focus, it’s exceptionally easy to sing.
Only My LoveMatsuda Seiko
A hidden gem by Seiko Matsuda that evokes the crisp air of winter.
Featured on the album “North Wind,” released in December 1980, this song has retained strong popularity, often ranking high in fan polls.
Many listeners have surely found comfort in her pure voice, which sings of single-hearted love over a gentle and elegant melody.
It was once used as the opening theme for a segment on a SONY program.
Frequently performed at New Year’s countdown live shows, it’s a special track for fans.
Listen to it on a quiet night while thinking of someone dear, and its tender world will softly permeate your heart.
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.
One day, suddenlyToa e moa
A gem of a love song woven by the crystal-clear unison of a man and a woman.
The graceful melody spun by Towa Tei et Moi delicately depicts, with subtle touches, the feelings of two young people shifting from friendship to love.
Paired with its quietly emotive tone, it becomes an outstanding piece suffused with urban lyricism.
Released in 1969, it reached No.
4 on the weekly Oricon chart and became a springboard for many of their signature songs.
Gently singing of emotions blooming from the depths of the heart, it’s a track I can recommend to anyone experiencing the first stirrings of love.
That wonderful love once moreKatō Kazuhiko, Kitayama Osamu
A gem of a folk song, filled with longing and nostalgia in search of a lost love.
It gently embraces shifting emotional distances and reflections on youth gone by.
The warm sonic world woven by the soothing resonance of the acoustic guitar and a refined arrangement beautifully captures the farewells and hoped-for reunions we all encounter in life.
Since its release in May 1971, it has been beloved as a staple for school events and graduation season, and has been widely used as incidental music in dramas and variety shows.
When you want to linger in memories with someone dear, why not immerse yourself in its soul-stirring vocals and poetic world?
In conclusion
How was it? This time, we introduced some moving songs that colored the Showa era.
Each track captures the unique atmosphere of its time, yet remains an unfading classic.
There are many more timeless songs from the Showa period beyond the ones we featured today, so if you’re interested, be sure to dig deeper!