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 Introduction, from Nostalgic Japanese Hits to Ever-Popular Classics (21–30)
Summer MissSakakibara Ikue
This is Ikue Sakakibara’s biggest hit, beloved alongside Yukiko Shimizu and Mizue Takada as part of the “Fresh Trio.” Its light, fast-paced sound is striking, vividly conveying the rising excitement as summer approaches.
Though it’s an idol song with a cute image, it’s unique in that the lyrics are written from a male perspective.
While weaving in words that evoke summer, it praises the young lady and straightforwardly sings of being in love.
Deceived by a guy like HiroshiTakada Mizue
When it comes to sounds that evoke a faintly nostalgic summer scene, the classic sung by Mizuë Takada comes to mind, doesn’t it? Written by Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars, this track features a GS-style arrangement with a delightfully twangy electric guitar that lifts your spirits just by listening.
The lyrics seem to portray the delicate feelings of a woman swayed between being drawn to a smooth-talking man and wondering, “Is this really okay?” Released in August 1983, the single reached No.
4 on TBS’s The Best Ten and won the Gold Prize at that year’s Japan Record Awards.
Put it on during a seaside drive or at a summer event, and the blend of nostalgia and freshness is sure to liven up the mood!
Summer Songs of the Showa Era | A comprehensive introduction from nostalgic Japanese hits to timeless favorites (31–40)
RIDE ON TIMEYamashita Tatsuro
This song features a poppy, upbeat melody that evokes the refreshing breeze of summer.
Tatsuro Yamashita’s clear, crystalline vocals conjure images of blue skies and the sea.
Released as a single from the September 1980 album “RIDE ON TIME,” it became his first Top 10 hit on the Oricon charts.
It also drew attention as the tie-in song for a Maxell cassette tape TV commercial.
With an uplifting message that lights a spark in the heart and sets the spirit soaring, it’s sure to gently encourage anyone taking a new step forward.
Why not enjoy it as driving music while reminiscing about your summer memories?
Midsummer RainRebekka
It’s a track that conjures up the languid air after a sudden evening shower and the sight of rain-soaked asphalt.
NOKKO’s emotionally rich vocals evoke a bittersweet, end-of-summer melancholy and an air of ennui.
The lyrics sketch fragmentary scenes and inner landscapes brought on by summer rain, likely resonating with listeners’ own summer memories.
The spatial sound processing reminiscent of reggae and dub lends it a distinctive, floating feel.
Released in November 1987 as the B-side of the single “NERVOUS BUT GLAMOROUS,” the song also appears on the album “Poison.” That album won Artist of the Year (Japanese music category) at the 2nd Japan Gold Disc Awards.
It’s the perfect song for a sultry summer night—when you’re lost in thought listening to the rain, or when you want to sink into a sentimental mood.
Shinin’ On-kun is sad.rukku
LOOK is a rock band that was active from 1985 to 1988.
Their career lasted only three years, but they left behind classic songs that represent the 1980s.
One of them is “Shinin’ On Kimi ga Kanashii.” The song portrays a man walking along a beach at night, reminiscing about memories with the one he loves.
Rather than a typical summer song, it’s more about recalling summer, so it’s a good listen during the change of seasons.
Let it stir your thoughts about those wonderful days.
The Little MermaidNagayama Miho
A heartrending love story set on a summer beach.
Miho Nakayama’s translucent vocals vividly portray the image of a mermaid shimmering in the cold sea of the big city.
Released in July 1988 and used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Wakaokusama wa Udemakuri!”, the track topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and ranked high on the year-end chart.
Its pop, melodious composition reflects the trends of the time while showcasing a unique sensibility.
Highly recommended for those with hearts swayed by love or anyone wishing to bask in summer memories.
South Wind – SOUTH WIND –Ōta Hiromi
If you want to savor an open, summery vibe, Hiromi Ohta’s “Minamikaze – SOUTH WIND -” is perfect.
Released in 1980 as her 17th single, it was used in a commercial for Kirin Beer’s “Kirin Orange” at the time.
Its refreshing sound, fitting for a soft drink commercial, puts you in a pleasant mood.
The lyrics, told from the perspective of young people who can’t wait for summer, feel charmingly fresh.
Definitely give “Minamikaze – SOUTH WIND -” a listen and soak up the summer atmosphere!
