[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!
- [Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- Heart-touching, tear-jerking masterpieces from the Showa era
- Showa-era nostalgic songs: Popular ranking
- Popular Showa-era pop. Timeless hit songs.
- [Songs from the Showa Era] Introducing classic tracks that are easy to sing at karaoke.
- So nostalgic it feels new? Showa retro classics that colored Japan’s period of rapid economic growth
- A Showa-era song that had a revival hit on YouTube Shorts
- A classic Showa-era kayōkyoku song sung by a female vocalist. A nostalgic tune passed down through the years.
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- Karaoke Popularity Ranking by Generation [50s] [2026]
- Popular 80s hits for karaoke. Sing kayōkyoku and pop songs!
[Spotlight Again] A roundup of popular and classic Showa-era songs currently trending [2026] (41–50)
Light Blue RainYagami Junko
Released in 1978, this is Junko Yagami’s biggest hit.
It has been covered by many famous artists, including Tatsuya Ishii and Aya Matsuura.
After Yagami finished composing the music, she commissioned several lyricists and chose Tokiko Miura’s lyrics.
Imagining Yagami’s strong-willed persona, Miura wove in imperative statements—unusual for the time.
While the lyrics evoke a strong woman, they can also be felt as a portrayal of someone hiding her vulnerability and bravely putting on a tough front to endure her loneliness.
wicked womanNakajima Miyuki
Still beloved today as a classic from the Showa era, this work features Miyuki Nakajima’s soul-stirring vocals and a poignant love story that resonates deeply.
Released as a single in October 1981, it is known as one of Nakajima’s signature songs.
The lyrics, which portray a woman’s feelings as she sacrifices herself for the one she loves, strike a chord with listeners.
Covered by numerous artists, it has been cherished both in Japan and abroad.
It’s a song recommended for listening alone on a quiet night.
A gem that accompanies those suffering in love or harboring a bittersweet longing.
Message of RougeMatsutoya Yumi
This is a song distinguished by its lively rhythm and refreshing melody.
The story of a woman who discovers her boyfriend’s infidelity, leaves a message written in lipstick on the bathroom mirror, and boards a train to visit his mother is bold and humorous, making it especially appealing.
While it carries a cautionary message about cheating, it also presents a positive, strong female figure—one of Yumi Matsutoya’s masterpieces.
Released in February 1975 and included on the album COBALT HOUR, the track features chorus contributions from Tatsuro Yamashita and others, resulting in a vibrant sound.
In 1989, it was chosen as the opening theme for the film Kiki’s Delivery Service, and it has continued to be loved across generations.
With its bright and cheerful tone expressing powerful feelings toward a lover, this song gently encourages women struggling with romance and is highly recommended to many listeners.
You are in full color.Ohtaki Eiichi
This is a masterpiece by Eiichi Ohtaki, who left a profound mark on the history of Japanese pop music.
Released in March 1981, the song was also included on the album “A LONG VACATION” and captured the hearts of many.
Its delicate lyrics depict the sweetness of romantic memories alongside the premonition of parting.
The striking chorus line, “Memories are monochrome,” is said to have been inspired by lyricist Takashi Matsumoto’s personal experiences.
Ohtaki’s rich, layered production—often called the Japanese version of the Wall of Sound—beautifully brings the lyrical world to life.
It’s a recommended track for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or wants to bask in nostalgia.
After all, I’m an idolKoizumi Kyoko
This song is known as a quintessential work of 1980s idol pop.
The lyrics open with a scene of jumping out of a red convertible and go on to portray an idol’s everyday life and feelings.
The phrase “pure, proper, and beautiful” underscores the importance of image management for idols.
Released in November 1985, it was also used in a commercial for Fuji Photo Film’s “Cardia.” In 2006, it was featured in a Subaru Stella commercial by Fuji Heavy Industries.
Kyoko Koizumi’s clear and charming vocals remain as captivating as ever.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to look back on the idol era or are interested in 1980s music.
Please, God!Za Tenputāzu
A youthful prayer, staking sweet feelings on God, resounds alongside a heartfelt longing for love.
The Tempters’ passionate message is vividly colored by Kenichi Hagiwara’s husky voice and the band’s unified performance.
Released in March 1968, the song reached No.
2 on the Oricon chart and was also used in a Kanebo cosmetics commercial.
Its sound, infused with blues and R&B elements, continues to shine as a symbol of the golden age of Group Sounds.
This classic, which gently embraces the hearts of youth troubled by love, is perfect for moments when you want to be honest with your pure feelings or reaffirm your thoughts for someone special.
The Day the Seagulls FlewWatanabe Machiko
Set in a port town, this gem of a ballad poignantly portrays the pain of heartbreak.
Against the glittering morning seascape, the singer overlays her feelings for a departing lover onto a single seagull, creating a moving masterpiece.
Released in April 1978, it became one of Machiko Watanabe’s signature songs, peaking at No.
5 on the Oricon charts.
The track won numerous music awards and drew attention to her as a rising talent among female singers.
In 2007, it was adopted as a Chiba Lotte Marines cheer song, with a special stadium version also released.
A performance by Japan’s dance team Avantgardey, featuring their unique choreography, garnered significant buzz and boosted the song’s recognition among younger audiences.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone who can relate to a woman quietly accepting the pain of lost love, or for those who wish to revisit youthful memories alongside the scenery of a harbor town.