Can't Stop the Sentimentality! Emo Songs Released in the Showa Era
“Emoi,” a youth slang term that describes a state of tender, bittersweet, or nostalgic feeling.
The word itself is modern, but songs that could be called emoi have surely existed in every era.
So this time, we’re introducing emoi songs released in the Showa period.
We’ve selected tracks from various angles—songs with emotional lyrics distinct from today’s style, and arrangements that reflect the era—so we hope you enjoy them.
- Heart-touching, tear-jerking masterpieces from the Showa era
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- When you can’t decide what to sing at karaoke: Easy-to-sing classic hits from the Showa era
- Guaranteed to move your emotions! Emo songs released in the Reiwa era
- Now’s the time to listen! Uplifting Showa-era songs that brightened Japan
- A heart-wrenching story that tightens the chest! A Showa-era unrequited love song
- Timeless classics only! Showa-era hit songs perfect for acoustic sing-alongs
- Just listening to it purifies the heart... A healing song born in the Showa era.
- Showa-era masterpieces roundup: A must-listen collection of nostalgic oldies and hit songs
- [Showa-Era Graduation Songs] Nostalgic? Emotive? A curated selection of timeless classics loved across generations
- Showa-era love songs: A roundup of timeless love songs cherished across generations
Can't stop the sentimentality! Emo songs released in the Showa era (1–10)
Give Up on SummerNaoko Ken
It’s a ballad that depicts the bittersweet scenes of summer’s end, delicately expressing the emotions of lovers.
Released in September 1982, the song achieved high acclaim, reaching No.
5 on the Oricon weekly chart and winning the Gold Prize at the Japan Record Awards.
Naoko Ken’s uniquely languid vocals beautifully convey the loneliness and frustration of late summer.
Closely associated with the imagery of Shonan and Enoshima, this piece is perfect to listen to as the season turns toward summer’s close.
Why not listen to it thoughtfully while recalling that last day you spent on the beach?
A street corner where even lovers get wetNakamura Masatoshi
This is a song that portrays a mature romance set against the backdrop of Yokohama.
Masatoshi Nakamura’s deep, rugged vocals are a perfect match for the erotic lyrics crafted by Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars.
Released in September 1982, the track vividly reflects the atmosphere of Yokohama at the time, with iconic scenery woven into the lyrics as part of its charm.
The lyrics delicately capture the bittersweet emotions of lovers on a rainy street corner, resonating deeply with listeners.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to feel the complex emotions unique to adult relationships and the passion sparked by a fleeting, one-night encounter.
Goodbyeofukōsu
A signature work by Off Course, whose emotive lyrics and translucent melody resonate deeply.
Released in December 1979, this song weaves a poignant tale of parting with a lover.
Kazumasa Oda’s delicate vocals beautifully capture the pain of heartbreak and the fragility of love, striking a chord with many listeners.
The track reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and ranked No.
9 on the 1980 year-end chart.
It was later used in a Daihatsu commercial and continues to be loved across generations.
It’s a comforting song to listen to when you want to heal the pain of a breakup or after experiencing a farewell with someone dear.
SWEET MEMORIESMatsuda Seiko
Seiko Matsuda is known as a representative idol of the 1980s and is still an active and prolific singer-songwriter today.
Originally included as the B-side to her 14th single “Glass no Ringo” (Glass Apple), this song became widely popular after being featured in a Suntory CAN Beer commercial.
With lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Haruomi Hosono, it was released in August 1983.
The lyrics, which look back on a past romance and sing of its bittersweet pain and beauty, resonate deeply with listeners.
Expressing the feeling of overcoming the pain of heartbreak and accepting the past as a sweet memory, it stands as an emotional ballad emblematic of the Showa era.
Graduation PhotoArai Yumi
A song filled with memories of youth.
It’s an eternal masterpiece created by Yumi Arai.
Released in June 1975 on her third album, COBALT HOUR, this track continues to move people’s hearts across generations.
The lyrics, which seem to revive the precious memories of the protagonist’s high school days lying deep within, are sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners.
It’s a poignant youth anthem to play when you feel nostalgic and want to take a fresh look at yourself.