[Revisited] A roundup of popular and classic Showa-era songs that are trending now [2026]
The Showa era gave birth to countless timeless classics loved across generations.
Now, those masterpieces from the Showa period are once again in the spotlight.
They’re gaining attention as they’re used on social media and video platforms like TikTok and YouTube, and as various artists and actors release cover versions.
In this article, we’ll introduce Showa-era songs that are trending right now!
For those who listened in real time back then, it’ll be nostalgic; for younger generations who didn’t experience the era, it might help you think, “So these are the songs that are trending on social media.”
Be sure to find your own favorite Showa tune!
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[Spotlight Again] A roundup of popular and classic Showa-era songs trending now [2026] (1–10)
Cat, meow meow meowanonenone
This song tells an adventurous story about animals who aren’t satisfied with the status quo and set out into a new world.
Released by Anonenone as a single in February 1979, it’s a track packed with humor and pop charm.
The B-side features Yanyan Rock, the theme song for TV Tokyo’s program Yanyan Utau Studio.
Peaking at No.
42 on the Oricon chart, the song has been covered by many artists.
In October 1994, Tatsuo Kamon and Noburo Harada released a newly arranged version.
In 2013, the duo Fuku to Kanon—Fuku Suzuki and Kanon Tani—performed it as the ending theme for be-Ponkikkies.
It’s also trending on TikTok and YouTube Shorts, where users post it with comical choreography.
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
One of the most beloved anime songs representing the Showa era is “Touch.” It was written specifically as the opening theme for the baseball anime of the same name and became an unprecedented hit after its release in 1985.
Set to a folk-style melody, the song portrays the bittersweet romance of youth.
Incidentally, it drew renewed attention in 2021 when a parody version was featured in a McDonald’s commercial.
Be sure to listen and compare them.
Midnight PretendersAran Tomoko
A song depicting a secret love hidden in the darkness of night is once again in the spotlight.
Released by Tomoko Aran in 1983, this work is notable for its falsetto vocals—slow in tempo yet influenced by disco.
The lyrics, which sing of an earnest desire to have one’s beloved all to oneself, are sure to resonate with many.
Included on Aran’s third album, Floating Space, the track later earned high acclaim as a city pop classic.
In 2022, it garnered worldwide attention when Canadian star The Weeknd sampled it.
It’s a perfect recommendation for anyone nursing a bittersweet love in the stillness of the night.
[Spotlight Again] A collection of popular and classic Showa-era songs trending now [2026] (11–20)
Lullaby of a Serrated HeartChekkāzu
Characterized by lyrics that portray the unstable emotions of adolescence, this song resonated strongly with young people at the time.
Its musical appeal also lies in a lively rhythm interwoven with elements of rock and roll.
Released by The Checkers in September 1983, the track was featured in the TV drama “Uchi no Ko ni Kagitte…” and received coverage across various media.
The work depicts the complex emotions of youth and conflicts with society, skillfully capturing the subtleties of the younger generation’s hearts.
It remains a beloved staple at lively gatherings such as after-parties even today.
A Man’s Badge of HonorYokohama Ginbae
A masterpiece that portrays the fiery spirit of a young man forging his own path with a rebellious heart.
Released in April 1982, it is known as one of Daisuke Shima’s signature songs.
Written and composed by Johnny of Yokohama Ginbae, the work features powerful vocals and a strong sense of justice, emblematic of the 1980s tsuppari (delinquent) youth culture.
The song was used as the theme for the Nippon TV drama “Ten made Agare!” and reached No.
3 on the weekly Oricon charts.
Its lyrics carefully depict the protagonist’s resolve to stay true to his beginnings despite facing adversity, resonating deeply across generations.
It was also covered as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “From Today, It’s My Turn!!,” which boosted its popularity among younger audiences.
For example, it’s beloved as a cheer song in high school baseball and has been used as a walk-up song by professional baseball players—an anthem that pushes forward those striving toward their dreams.
Blue Coral ReefMatsuda Seiko
It’s a classic song known for its refreshing melody and lyrics that depict a tropical romance.
Released in July 1980, this track was Seiko Matsuda’s second single and her first million-seller.
It was also used in a commercial for Glico’s Yoreru ice cream, making it popular across generations.
More recently, Hanni from the K-pop group NewJeans covered the song, drawing renewed attention.
It’s a perfect tune to listen to while imagining the summer sea, and it’s a karaoke favorite—though the sustained high notes can make it a bit challenging to sing.
I like you, I like you—I love you.Togawa Jun
TikTok is becoming a trendsetter not only in Japan but overseas as well.
This song, the title track from singer-songwriter Jun Togawa’s 1985 album, is characterized by its one-of-a-kind sound.
It’s going viral abroad too, packed with a borderless appeal.
The edgy, poppy melody leaves a strong impression.
Thanks to the dynamic arrangement, her cute sentiments come across straight and clear.
Singing with a girlish honesty, she sometimes shows a love so intense it can even feel frightening.
If you’ve ever felt “I’m so in love it’s making me lose my mind…,” you’ll relate.
