[Nostalgic Hits] Smash Hits with the Showa Generation! Classic and Popular Songs Sung by Female Vocalists
Saying “Those were the good old days” might make you feel a bit old—but honestly, there are times when remembering the past really does make you happy, right?
The TV shows you watched when you were young, the streets you walked, and the music you listened to…
In this article, I’ve put together a list of nostalgic Showa-era hit songs sung by female artists.
Feel free to reminisce about the past, find fresh motivation—and of course, use it as a reference for your next karaoke selection!
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Nostalgic Songs: Hits with the Showa Generation! Masterpieces and Popular Songs Sung by Female Vocalists (41–50)
A Good Day to Set Out on a JourneyYamaguchi Momoe
This was Momoe Yamaguchi’s 24th single, released on November 21, 1978.
It was created as the theme song for a fall travel promotion campaign with the same name run by the then-JNR (now JR).
The lyricist was Shinji Tanimura, who at the time was soaring in popularity with his group Alice.
The composition, arrangement, lyrics, and Yamaguchi’s vocals come together to evoke nostalgic autumn scenes tinged with a touch of melancholy—just by listening.
It’s a classic, gentle Showa-era ballad.
Please enjoy!
Orphan Hachishimazaki yuri
Feelings for a mother and hope are woven through a voice that balances gentleness and strength.
With her clear, translucent vocals, Yuri Shimazaki paints scenes that tenderly envelop the story of a small protagonist’s adventure and growth.
You can’t help but empathize with the figure who continues their journey with love and courage in their heart, making this a heartwarming work that gives you the strength to move forward step by step.
Released as a single by Nippon Columbia in May 1970, it captured the hearts of many viewers as the opening theme for the anime “Mitsubachi Māya no Bōken” (Insect Story: Orphan Hacchi).
In 1974, she also performed the theme for the sequel, successfully enriching the world of the series.
It’s the perfect song for when you need encouragement or want to lift someone’s spirits.
spring hazeIwasaki Hiromi
A classic song that colors the spring of the Showa era.
Its bittersweet yet beautiful melody and lyrics resonate deeply.
Released by Hiromi Iwasaki in February 1979, it was crafted by the golden duo: lyrics by Michio Yamagami and music by Kyohei Tsutsumi.
It delicately portrays a woman’s emotions as she resolves to part with her lover.
Set against the backdrop of cherry blossom season, the song conveys both the pain of heartbreak and the determination to make a fresh start.
Iwasaki’s outstanding vocal performance brings even greater richness to the emotional expression.
A perfect track for those standing at a crossroads in life as spring arrives.
Let yourself go with the flow of timeTeresa Ten
Among the many masterpieces that sing of deep love, this is a particularly moving song.
It deftly depicts the evolving landscapes of love over time, and through its exquisite melody and exceptional expressiveness, it showcases Teresa Teng at her very best.
The song beautifully portrays unconditional love for someone dear, along with the self-sacrifice that springs from it, gently enveloping the listener’s heart.
Released in February 1986, it was also included on the album “Toki no Nagare ni Mi o Makase” (I Only Care About You).
It achieved the remarkable feat of winning the Grand Prix at the 19th Japan Cable Radio Awards for the third consecutive year, and it also received the Gold Award at the 28th Japan Record Awards.
Even today, it is widely covered by many artists and cherished across generations.
It is a recommended listen when you are thinking of someone special or wish to spend time in a calm, peaceful mood.
Why not immerse yourself in memories with a loved one and enjoy a heartwarming moment?
Premonition of Spring – I’ve been mellowMinami Saori
This song has a light, airy atmosphere that beautifully evokes the arrival of spring.
Saori Minami’s clear, transparent voice gently wraps around your heart.
It was released in January 1978 as her 25th single.
Chosen as Shiseido’s spring campaign song, it has become a beloved classic for many.
It’s the perfect track for those who, lured by the cheerful spring weather, are hoping for new encounters or romance.
Listening to it will make your heart feel lighter and let you sense the coming of spring.
Dororon Enma-kunNakayama Chinatsu
A song that vividly depicts the mysterious world of yokai was released in 1973 as the opening theme for a TV anime.
With lyrics by Chinatsu Nakayama and music by Asei Kobayashi, the melody wonderfully captures the strange yet humorous nature of these spirits.
The piece playfully recounts the mischief of yokai emerging from the underworld with a bright, light rhythm, offering a friendly charm that appeals to both children and adults.
Its lyrics, imbued with affection for Japan’s traditional yokai culture, harmonize beautifully with a catchy melody.
It’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to spend a fun time with yokai or enjoy a nostalgic Showa-era anime song.
companion on the road; fellow traveler; taking someone along (often unwillingly)Makimura Mieko
This is a popular Showa-era work that delicately chronicles the love between a man and a woman.
It’s sung by enka singer Mieko Makimura from Hokkaido and was released in 1978.
“Even if we live in poverty, I’ll go on living with the one I love…” The lyrics convey that feeling so powerfully it tightens your chest.
Makimura’s steadfast vocals resonate deeply, too.
It might feel most fitting to listen to at night, alone, when you want to sink into a lonely mood.
