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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Showa Era Masterpieces Collection: Must-Listen Nostalgic Tunes & Hit Songs (111–120)
Premonition of Spring – I’ve been mellowMinami Saori
A refreshing song that evokes the gentle warmth of spring.
Saori Minami’s crystal-clear voice resonates deeply.
Released in January 1978, this piece was also used for Shiseido’s spring campaign.
Written and composed by Ami Ozaki, the recording reportedly proceeded with strict direction to avoid turning it into Minami’s signature “Saori-bushi” style.
The lyrics delicately portray the sense of a new season arriving with spring and the accompanying stirrings of the heart—leaving a strong impression.
In 2008, it was also used as a subtitle for the NHK morning drama series Dandan.
It’s a song that gently gives a nudge to anyone taking a new step in spring.
A snap in yellow-green (moegi)anzenchitai
A masterpiece that vividly portrays the scenery of the Showa era.
Released in February 1982 as Anzen Chitai’s major-label debut single, it features Koji Tamaki’s clear, transparent vocals that seem to herald the arrival of spring.
Meltwater flowing, a song in motion, the sparkle of life, and the anticipation of new encounters—its beautiful imagery is truly captivating.
The song was also performed at Anzen Chitai’s 40th-anniversary concert, surely rekindling the spirit of their debut days.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to with someone special, wrapped in the warmth of spring.
Highly recommended for those looking forward to new encounters or embarking on a new chapter in life.
Yanagase BluesMikawa Ken’ichi
It was Kenichi Mikawa’s third single, released in 1966.
This song marked a turning point as he shifted toward the enka/mood kayō style.
It became a hit that sold over 1.2 million copies, making the name Yanagase known nationwide and establishing Mikawa himself as a star singer.
It has become one of his signature songs.
lieNakaijō Kiyoshi
Released in 1974 (Showa 49).
The lyrics, written by author Yoko Yamaguchi, are, in my opinion, brilliant: from a uniquely female perspective, they see through a man’s lies and discern the shadow of another woman.
Until now—and I mean no disrespect—many mood kayō singers gained popularity more for their vocal ability, sweetness of tone, and resonance than for their looks.
But Kiyoshi Nakajo, with a slightly dandy image, has built a new and unprecedented world within mood kayō.
Beyond the GoodbyeYamaguchi Momoe
Released two months before her retirement, this song—fitting for a final farewell—begins with a whisper-like delivery over a gentle tempo, as if summing up a person’s entire life, and then unfolds dramatically.
Even after retiring, she never appeared on television again—an admirable resolve befitting a charismatic, Showa-era megastar.