Songs of Summer from the Showa Era: A comprehensive introduction, from nostalgic Japanese hits to timeless favorites still popular today
Summer is packed with fun events like seaside drives, camping, and all-you-can-eat buffets.
And to make summer even more exciting, the right BGM is essential, isn’t it? If you’re struggling with your summer playlist, why not try some classic Japanese hits from the Showa era? In this article, we introduce a variety of “summer songs” mainly from the 1960s to the 1980s—ranging from Showa pop and Group Sounds to New Music, city pop, idol tunes, and rock bands.
For some, it’ll be a nostalgic trip; for younger listeners, a fresh discovery.
Enjoy!
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Songs of Summer from the Showa Era | A comprehensive showcase from nostalgic Japanese hits to timeless favorites still popular today (61–70)
Dance, fish.Yamashita Tatsuro
Singer-songwriter Tatsuro Yamashita, renowned as a meticulous craftsman of sound, has continually evolved his music in step with the times.
His 16th single, “Odoroyo, Fish,” drew attention when its remastered version was released on CD for the first time in 2020, 33 years after the original release.
The lyrics conjure images of sun and sea, and the urban atmosphere evokes the comfortable charm of classic city pop.
It’s a refreshing pop tune that brings to mind a clear, beautiful seascape.
The Longed-For Hawaii RouteHaruo Oka
This song sings of the postwar aspirations of the Japanese people.
Its lyrics vividly evoke a ship setting sail from the harbor to Hawaii, and the jaunty melody is irresistible.
It became a major hit in December 1948, and a film of the same title was produced in 1950.
Haruo Oka’s uniquely vibrato-rich vocals must have resonated with listeners of the time.
It’s a great listen on a hot summer day, when you feel a longing for the tropics.
Whether gazing out at the sea or using it as background music for making summer memories, it’s the perfect track.
Give Up on SummerSazan Ōrusutāzu
“Natsu wo Akiramete” was released in 1982 as a song by Southern All Stars, and is also known for Naoko Ken’s cover released the same year.
The somewhat wistful, melancholic accompaniment pairs perfectly with Kuwata’s sexy, husky voice.
The lyrics depict a certain couple going to the seaside, but the story and the couple’s relationship are open to various interpretations.
Are they a couple who just started dating, a pair on the verge of breaking up, or perhaps lovers in a relationship they can’t tell others about? Try listening while imagining a fleeting summer romance, and let the song sink in.
In conclusion
Among the countless classics in the Showa-era Japanese music scene, we’ve delivered a generous selection of songs that evoke all kinds of summers. Many are famous tunes you’ve likely heard somewhere before, and because they continue to be loved across generations, turning them into a playlist and playing them as background music will liven up summer scenes for people of all ages.