Songs by Showa-era idols that you’ll want to listen to now, in the Reiwa era!
In the Showa era, many hit songs were released by singers known as “idols.” At the time, music genres weren’t categorized as finely as they are today.
From quintessential “Showa kayō” numbers to rock-influenced tracks and techno-tinged sounds, the scene was a bit of a genre melting pot—but that eclecticism is part of what makes Showa pop music so appealing to listen to.
Many artists who are now respected, full-fledged singers also came from this scene.
We hope you’ll enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Showa period through footage and vocals from their youthful, fresh days.
It can also be fun to pay attention to their fashion and hairstyles as seen in the videos!
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Male (1–10)
blue appleNoguchi Goro
Did you know that Goro Noguchi, famous as one of the “New Big Three,” debuted with an enka song? Apparently, because that debut single didn’t sell well, he shifted toward being an idol.
After that turn of events came this 1971 release, Aoi Ringo (Blue Apple).
The lyrics, which use a green apple as a metaphor for a love that has ended, are superb! The trumpet in the intro overflows with the nostalgic feel of Showa-era pop.
It’s also interesting that later on, Hiromi Go—another member of the New Big Three—covered this song.
As time goes bysawada kenji
Kenji Sawada, an idol who represents the Showa era.
He’s an artist for whom the word “charisma” fits perfectly.
Among his many famous songs, the one I especially recommend is “As Time Goes By.” It’s a track that exudes Showa-era allure and conveys a passionate, romantic feel, yet it has a narrow vocal range and the pitch is easy to catch, so even women in their 50s who struggle with pitch should find it easy to sing.
Since the original key may be hard to project in, make sure to figure out your own key before you sing.
Startled! GoodTahara Toshihiko
At the time, the idol group Tanokin Trio was a huge sensation.
Among them, Toshihiko Tahara—known as Toshichan—was the classic princely type, compared to Yocchan, who had a soothing vibe, and Matchy, who was a bit edgy.
This song is a quintessential idol number packed with that cool-and-cute charm, released in 1980 as Tahara’s second single.
With a light, old-jazz-style rhythm, poppy piano, and lyrics depicting a fateful encounter on a sparkling plateau, it has an irresistible breeziness that feels like a gentle wind blowing through.
Lullaby of a Serrated HeartChekkāzu
In the 1980s—the heyday of classic idols like Johnny’s groups, Seiko Matsuda, and Akina Nakamori—The Checkers suddenly descended from Kurume in Kyushu, bringing a fresh, rock-infused breeze.
“Gizagiza Heart no Komoriuta” was their debut single, and their rock ’n’ roll sound—featuring sax, bass, and doo-wop—paired with their head-to-toe checkered suits delivered a thrilling shock to young people across Japan.
With lyrics capturing the bittersweet, unstable feelings unique to adolescence and a danceable rhythm, it’s the epitome of youth—a timeless classic still loved by a wide range of generations today.
TOKIOsawada kenji
One of the signature songs by Julie—Kenji Sawada—that shocked viewers at home with his outrageous look: a flashy, light-up suit paired with a parachute.
Released on January 1, 1980, it perfectly captures the sparkling mood that kicked off the ’80s.
The synths in the intro are striking and still sound fresh today.
The lyrics, brimming with the momentum to make an entire city soar into the sky, were penned by Shigesato Itoi.
Lose yourself in the glamorous allure of Tokio—Tokyo—fit for the dawn of a new era, and in Julie’s irresistible, mature charm!
It’s nothing good.Nagabuchi Tsuyoshi
Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi, whose songs about burning manly passion are supported by men of his generation.
His track “Rokuna Mon Ja Nee,” released in 1987, became a major hit as the theme song for the drama Oyako Zigzag, in which Nagabuchi himself starred.
It’s a well-known song that many people have heard, not only those who remember the era but also thanks to its huge success.
It creates a rugged, cool vibe yet also gets everyone fired up as a karaoke song—by the chorus it turns into a big sing-along.
It’s a number I highly recommend to anyone who’s been feeling stressed out lately.
As long as the sun is in the skynishikino akira
Akira Nishikino, whose nickname “Star Nishikino” has really taken hold, often steals the show—even more than some comedians—on variety programs, whether he’s being dropped into trapdoors or gliding across snowy fields on a bicycle.
His signature song is ‘As Long as There’s a Sun in the Sky.’ The easy call-and-response in the A-melody makes it a karaoke favorite.
Its straightforward lyrics, themed around ‘a love that never changes,’ are quintessential Showa-era pop.
Of course, it’s also a must-recommend track that’s bound to resonate in the Reiwa era too!