Thrilling to Cool Showa-Era Tunes! Classic Songs from Female Singers and Artists of the Showa Period
Showa-era songs are now loved by the younger generation too.
Many people probably think they’re “cool,” don’t they?
No wonder—there were so many timeless hits by female stars radiating overwhelming charisma, like Momoe Yamaguchi and Akina Nakamori.
Beyond their outstanding vocal ability, you can’t help but be drawn to their astonishing allure.
From Showa kayō and enka to rock and city pop, and more.
This is a playlist featuring cool Showa-era tracks across genres!
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Thrilled by cool Showa-era tunes! Classic Showa hits by female singers and artists (11–20)
vibrationKasai Kimiko
This is a classic that lets you fully savor Kimiko Kasai’s lustrous vocals.
Its light, rhythmic sound stands out, with a superb blend of jazz-funk and city pop elements.
Released in September 1977, the track drew attention as the lead single from the album “TOKYO SPECIAL.” Composed by Tatsuro Yamashita, it exudes an urban, sophisticated vibe that symbolizes Japan’s 1970s music scene.
It’s also highly regarded in club circles and has been enjoying a resurgence among DJs and music fans.
A perfect song for a nighttime drive or whenever you want to revel in a chic, metropolitan mood.
Lament of ResentmentKaji Meiko
Meiko Kaji’s song, released in June 1973, is distinguished by lyrics themed around a woman’s vengeful grudge.
Its powerful vocals interwoven with a plaintive melody resonate deeply with listeners.
Used as the theme song for the Female Convict Scorpion film series, it became a piece emblematic of Meiko Kaji’s identity.
Although classified as enka, it has been praised for bringing a fresh breeze to the traditional musical style.
Kaji’s passionate performance and vocals greatly contributed to the films’ success, making this work an important milestone in her career.
Boy And GirlWada Akiko
Released in April 1969 as the B-side to Akiko Wada’s second single “Doshaburi no Ame no Naka de,” this track showcases Wada’s powerful vocals.
With lyrics by Toshiko Obinata and music by Ryochi Ozawa, the song’s words—centered on the joys and pains of love—leave a strong impression.
Strongly influenced by overseas soul music, Wada’s truly “dynamite” singing combined with a rhythmic melody brought a fresh sensation to the music scene of the time.
Known as one of her early signature works, it captures the allure she exuded soon after her debut.
Angel’s TemptationMayuzumi Jun
This is a signature work by Jun Mayuzumi, known as one of the leading songstresses of the Showa era.
Its lyrics, which portray the pain of heartbreak and a wistful longing, continue to resonate with many.
Released in February 1968, it won the 10th Japan Record Award that same year.
It was also used as the theme song for a film of the same title, cementing Mayuzumi’s status as a singer.
Blending a punchy, captivating voice with rich emotional expression, the song remains beloved by many fans today.
It’s recommended for those trying to overcome the pain of heartbreak and for anyone wanting to experience a classic of the Showa era.
You’ll surely be moved by Mayuzumi’s soul-stirring vocals.
HOLD ME TIGHTraji
Known as a landmark of late-1970s city pop, this work was created with composition and arrangement by Yukihiro Takahashi and lyrics by Machiko Ryu.
Its urbane, sophisticated sound blends beautifully with Raji’s clear, translucent vocals.
It was released as a single in September 1977 and was also included on the album “Heart To Heart,” which came out around the same time.
The B-side features “Ai wa Tabun,” which was used in a Nissan Skyline commercial.
The lyrics delicately portray the ache of love and the loneliness of the night, resonating deeply with people living in the city.
It’s a classic that’s perfect for a nighttime drive or for relaxing with music on a quiet evening.
Just a JokeKokubu Yurie
The urbane, sophisticated sound and the lyrics that sing of heartbreak blend exquisitely, embodying the aesthetics of city pop with a charm that grips the listener’s heart and never lets go.
YurIE Kokubu’s transparent, crystalline vocals brilliantly convey the ache of a bittersweet love.
Released in 1983 and included on the album “Relief 72 hours,” this song was highly regarded even at the time.
In recent years, it has also drawn attention from overseas listeners, helping ignite the city pop boom.
It’s especially recommended for adults troubled by love.
When you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak, why not give this song a listen?
Thrilled by cool Showa-era tunes! Classic Showa songs by female singers and artists (21–30)
Simple LoveOhashi Junko
Released in 1977, this work incorporates elements of city pop while achieving a refined pop sound.
At the time, music on television was dominated by enka and folk, so its urban character felt fresh and garnered support, particularly among young people in major cities.
It received high praise both domestically and internationally, including a third-place finish at the 3rd Mallorca World Music Festival in 1977.
A pivotal turning point for Junko Ohashi, this piece has continued to be loved across generations, and the recent revival of city pop has brought it new attention from younger listeners.
It’s a highly recommended track for anyone who wants to savor a pleasant, metropolitan atmosphere.