So nostalgic it feels new? Showa retro classics that colored Japan’s period of rapid economic growth
Are you familiar with the term “Showa retro”? It refers to the renewed appreciation of movies, music, architecture, fashion, sundries, and design from the Showa era—especially the period of rapid economic growth from the mid-1950s to the late 1970s.
The unique atmosphere of that time may feel fresh to younger generations.
With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of classic Showa retro songs.
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So nostalgic it feels new? Showa-era retro masterpieces that colored Japan’s period of rapid economic growth (11–20)
Before winter comeskami fuusen
Known as one of Kamifūsen’s signature songs, this piece portrays the feelings of a woman who longs to reunite with a former lover, set against the seasonal shift from late summer to just before winter.
Released on November 1, 1977, it was a major hit, reaching No.
4 on the Oricon weekly chart and No.
27 on the 1978 year-end chart.
It sold 450,000 copies, establishing Kamifūsen’s nationwide recognition.
With its delicate lyrics and heartrending melody, this song resonates deeply—recommended for those seeking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to savor the transition from autumn to winter.
blue eyesJakkī Yoshikawa to Burū Komettsu
A masterpiece where a wistful melody merges with a stirring band sound.
First released during the dawn of the Group Sounds era—its English version in March 1966 and Japanese version in July—the song portrays a bittersweet romance with a woman encountered at the end of a journey through northern landscapes.
Following the English version’s sales of over 100,000 copies, the Japanese version became a massive hit, surpassing 500,000.
It earned Jackie Yoshikawa and the Blue Comets a spot in the 17th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen and helped ignite the GS boom.
With its polished performance and harmonies, this sonic world is a perfect pick for anyone wishing to bask in memories of first love and youth.
Listening to OliviaAnri
A melody that gently envelops the lingering ache of a bittersweet romance, paired with refined musicianship, resonates deeply in the heart.
The lyrics, which carefully depict a woman healing her delicate emotions after a breakup while listening to Olivia Newton-John’s songs, have struck a chord with many.
With Anri’s clear, translucent vocals giving the piece a sophisticated, urban feel, it was released in November 1978 and included on the album “Anri.” In 2008, it was also featured as an insert song in the Nippon TV drama “Saito-san,” cementing its status as a timeless classic loved across generations.
This warm ballad offers comfort to those trying to recover from the pain of heartbreak and to anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.
In conclusion
How was it? This time, we introduced some classic Showa-era hits.
The nostalgic atmosphere unique to that era has a charm that feels different from modern J-pop, doesn’t it? If this article sparked your interest, be sure to dig deeper!