Showa-era masterpieces roundup: A must-listen collection of nostalgic oldies and hit songs
In the Showa era, countless masterpieces were created across genres, from pop kayokyoku to enka.
Many of them are still loved today, and we have plenty of chances to hear them.
In recent years, it’s not uncommon for Showa-era songs to experience a revival hit, and I think many younger listeners are also interested in these classics.
In this article, we’d like to reintroduce a generous selection of Showa masterpieces.
We’ve gathered many songs from various genres, so please take your time and give them a careful listen.
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Compilation of classic Showa-era songs: A must-listen collection of nostalgic tunes and hit singles (1–10)
Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji
A defining song of the 1970s music scene, this track is known as one of Kenji Sawada’s signature works.
While depicting the complex emotions of a heartbroken man, its lyrics leave a strong impression with their free-spirited attitude and adult melancholy.
Released in May 1977, it spent five consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart, ranked No.
4 on the year-end chart, and became a massive hit with 890,000 copies sold.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or is standing at a crossroads in life.
Why not give this piece, packed with Sawada’s charm, a listen?
Boat SongYashiro Aki
One of the quintessential masterpieces of the Showa era, this gem of a ballad resonates in the hearts of many.
Sung by Aki Yashiro, whose unique phrasing and emotionally rich voice are its allure, the song was released in May 1979.
Its lyrics vividly depict the atmosphere of an izakaya, delicately expressing a lingering longing for a former lover.
The piece became even more widely remembered when a scene featuring Yashiro herself singing it was included in the 1981 film “Station.” It’s the perfect song for savoring a quiet drink or immersing yourself in nostalgic memories.
UFOpinku redii
Speaking of classic Showa-era hits, this song is indispensable.
Its unique lyrics about a romance with an alien and its catchy melody are irresistible.
The fresh storyline—of a woman bored with Earth men who falls in love with an extraterrestrial—sparks listeners’ imaginations.
Released in December 1977, it became a massive hit, selling about 1.55 million copies.
It also won the 20th Japan Record Award, dominating the music scene of the time.
The song was used in a Nissin Yakisoba U.F.O.
commercial and remains beloved across generations.
It’s highly recommended for fans of sci-fi films and those interested in innovative lyrics.
Please give me wingsakai tori
Among the classic songs of the Showa era, this piece stands out with a special presence.
Its hope-filled lyrics and beautiful harmonies resonate deeply.
Released in February 1971 as a single by Akaitori (The Red Birds), it has continued to be loved by many people ever since.
It has even crossed eras to capture hearts, being used at the 1998 Nagano Olympics and the 2021 Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony.
This song is perfect for anyone who longs for dreams and freedom.
It’s a wonderful piece that reminds us of the importance of holding on to hope, no matter the times.
youKozaka Akiko
It’s Akiko Kosaka’s debut single.
A month after its release, it topped the Oricon Singles Chart for seven consecutive weeks and became such a massive hit that she made her first appearance on the Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
The 16-year-old girl singing while playing the piano, with her soaring high notes, drew a great deal of attention at the time.