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 (11–20)
Blue Sky BlueSaijō Hideki
Hiromi Go, alongside Goro Noguchi, formed the “New Big Three,” and this is Hideki Saijo’s 26th single.
It was released in 1978, when Saijo was just 23.
As you’ll hear, the song centers on the theme of a forbidden love with a married woman—remarkably mature content.
The fact that 23-year-old Saijo delivered it so convincingly makes you think that, although times were different, people back then seemed a bit more grown-up than today.
Saijo’s husky voice is rich and sensual—truly a nostalgic track.
In conclusion
So, we’ve showcased many songs and videos by Showa-era idols up to this point—how was it? For those who experienced that time in real time, I hope it brought back memories; for those born in the Heisei era and later, perhaps the atmosphere of Showa felt fresh in a different way.
After all, the Showa period was very long, and there are still many artists and songs we haven’t been able to feature here yet.
We plan to keep expanding this little by little, so please look forward to more.