A collection of iconic, cool Showa-era kayōkyoku classics sung by male vocalists
Even now, well past the 2020s, classic Showa-era hits continue to draw attention not only in Japan but also from music fans and artists abroad.
As famous singers cover 80s city pop and quote it in their own songs, many younger music fans are finding themselves wanting to learn more about Showa-era pop.
In this article, we’ve compiled songs under the theme of “cool Showa-era tunes sung by men” from among the countless masterpieces of Showa kayo.
From sleek, urban tracks and rock numbers to mellow ballads, enjoy a wide range of “cool” Showa-era songs!
Compilation of cool classic Showa-era kayōkyoku masterpieces sung by male vocalists (1–10)
Casablanca Dandysawada kenji
Kenji Sawada’s 26th single, “Casablanca Dandy.” Speaking of Kenji Sawada, his vocals are strikingly sensual—so much so that even men can’t help but fall for them, not just women, right? This song showcases that very charm of Kenji Sawada to the fullest.
What makes it so cool, you ask? Above all, it’s the long sustained notes that appear in the chorus.
I think the song is fairly difficult to sing, but if you can handle it well, you’ll be able to project a strong sense of masculinity.
You are more beautiful than a rose.Fuse Akira
It’s a classic of Showa-era pop music that was influenced by Western new music.
Akira Fuse’s clear, warm vocals beautifully convey the praise for a woman and the depth of love embedded in the lyrics.
Released in January 1979 as Fuse’s 42nd single, the song was featured in a Kanebo cosmetics commercial.
It has remained beloved by many, having been performed four times on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics depict a man moved by the changes he notices in a woman he reunites with after a long time, capturing the subtleties of romance and human relationships.
It’s a perfect song for those whose hearts are fluttering ahead of a reunion with someone dear.
Wine Red Heartanzenchitai
A signature song by Anzenchitai, renowned as a masterpiece depicting mature romance.
Koji Tamaki’s rich, seductive vocals and Yosui Inoue’s poignant lyrics vividly capture the feelings of adults troubled by love.
Released in 1983, it garnered wide support, being featured in a Suntory “Akadama Punch” commercial and as a theme song for a Fuji TV drama.
Exuding a sophisticated, urban atmosphere, this work is perfect for enjoying with a glass of wine while watching a romantic drama for adults.
Its world, woven from weighty musicality and passionate lyrics, is sure to draw you in.
Ruby RingTerao Akira
Akira Terao, who thrived not only as an actor but also as an artist, had a mega-hit with “Ruby no Yubiwa,” a song that has continued to be sung at karaoke for many years.
To sing this song stylishly, it’s important to first understand your own vocal quality.
If you have a low voice, you can sing it with the same downbeat feel as the original.
If you have a higher voice, try raising the key on purpose.
It’s a song that still sounds cool even with a raspy delivery, so give it a try.
SUMMER SUSPICIONSugiyama Kiyotaka & Omega Tribe
A song by Kiyotaka Sugiyama & Omega Tribe that evokes a refreshing summer night.
Its urbane melody and bittersweet lyrics paint a picture of a love at summer’s end.
Even while carrying doubt and anxiety, Sugiyama’s passionate vocals are, in a word, “cool.” Released by VAP in September 1983, the track was included on their debut album, AQUA CITY, and became one of their signature songs.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to bask in summer memories or linger over a farewell to someone dear.
As a classic of Showa-era kayōkyoku that fully embodies the charm of city pop, it continues to be loved by many.
A long nightMatsuyama Chiharu
This song can be considered a quintessential example of cool Showa-era kayōkyoku sung by a male vocalist.
Known as a leading figure in folk music, Chiharu Matsuyama boldly transformed his style into a rock-oriented sound with this ambitious work, released in 1981.
Featuring passionate lyrics and a powerful arrangement, it vividly captures the emotions of a heart swayed by love.
It became Matsuyama’s biggest hit, selling a total of 866,000 copies.
While described as an “unconventional rock song,” it won over many fans.
Nail the soaring melody in the chorus, and it’s guaranteed to fire up any karaoke crowd!
SPARKLEYamashita Tatsuro
Singer-songwriter Tatsuro Yamashita has enjoyed enduring popularity thanks to his distinctive voice and refined musical sensibility.
He is known worldwide and is famous as a leading figure of city pop.
His song “SPARKLE” is a work that lets you fully savor his brand of city pop.
While it’s unmistakably city pop, the vocals strongly reflect elements of Black music, which makes it fairly challenging to sing.
However, if you can deliver it well, I believe you can achieve the kind of glamour associated with overseas artists.