Who is your favorite idol? Popular idols from the Showa era.
The Showa era saw the rise of many catchy, captivating artists known as “idols,” along with countless classic songs.
Not only were there idol groups, but many solo idols also emerged, enchanting people of all genders.
In this article, we introduce the idols who were especially popular during the Showa era.
We’ve gathered idols that everyone who lived through Showa would know—some who continue to thrive across eras, and others who have become legends.
Be sure to check out Showa-era idols, packed with charms different from those of Heisei and Reiwa idols, along with their signature songs!
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- [For Seniors] Popular Kayōkyoku: A Collection of Classic Songs Perfect for Karaoke and Background Music Selection
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Who is your favorite idol? Popular idols from the Showa era (1–10)
Smile for MeNaoko Kawai
Naoko Kawai, an idol who was active in the 1980s, drew renewed attention when her song “Kenka wo Yamete” was used in the 2022 film Suzume.
That same year, she ranked fifth in the “1980s Idol General Election: The Best 100” held on the music site Re:minder.
Known for her idol-like, innocent smile and distinctive snaggletooth, she also worked as a gravure idol.
Although she retired from show business upon getting married, many people surely still remember her as an unforgettable idol of their youth.
Graduation -GRADUATION-Momoko Kikuchi
Momoko Kikuchi is an idol who was active in the 1980s.
She began her entertainment career with the 1984 film “Pants no Ana,” then debuted as a singer and achieved tremendous popularity.
It seems she originally entered the entertainment industry after being scouted.
Kikuchi, who also won the Japan Record Sales Award for Best New Female Artist, released a string of hit songs, including “Yuki ni Kaita LOVE LETTER” and “Sotsugyō—GRADUATION.” While continuing her work in entertainment, she currently also lectures at a university.
The multi-talented Momoko Kikuchi is sure to continue succeeding in many fields in the future!
Lips NetworkYukiko Okada
The idol affectionately known as Yukko, Yukiko Okada, made her major debut in 1984 with “First Date.” In the same year, she won the Japan Record Awards’ Best New Artist and New Artist prizes.
In 1986, her single “Kuchibiru Network,” with lyrics by Seiko Matsuda and music by Ryuichi Sakamoto, debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
Cute and talented as a singer, she was seen as a rising star; however, in April 1986, at the young age of 18, she died by suicide.
Many people at the time were surely shocked and grieved by the news.
Who is your favorite idol? Popular idols from the Showa era (11–20)
Love Doesn’t Stop ~Turn It Into Love~Wink
Wink debuted in 1988.
The duo, made up of Sachiko Suzuki and Shoko Aida, stood out at a time when idols with sparkling smiles were popular by singing with expressionless faces and performing choreography that resembled robot dancing.
This distinctive style drew attention and won them great popularity.
They released numerous hit songs such as Sabishii Nettaigyo (Lonely Tropical Fish) and Ai ga Tomaranai ~TURN IT INTO LOVE~, and many people back then tried singing and copying their dance moves.
They did not officially disband but suspended their activities in 1996, and even now they remain a beloved idol group with many fans hoping for their return.
younger boyCandies
Candies was an idol group formed by three members: Ran Ito, Miki Fujimura, and Yoshiko Tanaka.
Along with Pink Lady, they led the idol scene of the 1970s.
They had many classic hits, such as “Toshishita no Otokonoko,” “Hohoemi Gaeshi,” and “Haru Ichiban,” and I’m sure many of you have heard them at least once.
Their breakup in 1977, right at the peak of their popularity, came as a shock to many.
They announced their disbandment during a concert at the Hibiya Open-Air Concert Hall, and Ito’s line at the time—“I want to go back to being a normal girl”—became extremely famous.
It even turned into a popular catchphrase of the era.
southpawPink Lady
Is there anyone who hasn’t heard of Pink Lady? The duo—Mie (Mitsuyo Nemoto) and Kei (Keiko Masuda)—debuted with the single “Pepper Keibu,” and if you were born in the Showa era, you might still remember the choreography! They went on to score huge hits with irresistible, copy-worthy dance tunes like “Wanted” and “UFO.” Their popularity didn’t stop in Japan—they even broke into the U.S.
market and had an eponymous TV show.
In 1980, however, they announced their breakup, bringing an end to four years and seven months of activity.
Even so, people still impersonate them on TV today, a testament to how popular they were back then.
You’re not alone.Mari Amachi
Speaking of Mari Amachi, she’s one of the most beloved national idols of the Showa era.
She gained popularity playing the neighbor Mari-chan in the 1971 TV drama “Jikan Desuyo,” and many of you may remember watching her on TV back then.
She made her debut with Mizuiro no Koi, which she also performed on the show, and the song became a big hit! She went on to release many more hit songs, including Hitorijanaino and Omoide no Serenade.
Her popularity continues today, and she remains active with concerts and fan club events.