Unrequited love songs from the Showa era. Those nostalgic classics.
In this article, we introduce unrequited love songs from the Showa era.
If you spent your youth around the time these were released, you’ll likely find many nostalgic tracks.
You might even rediscover a song you listened to when you were in love and feel those forgotten emotions return.
Some are love songs that portray impossible romances and heartbreak, but if you’re looking for Showa-era unrequited love songs, be sure to give these a listen.
No matter your generation, if you’ve experienced love, you’re sure to find at least one song you can relate to.
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Unrequited Love Songs of the Showa Era: Those Nostalgic Classics (91–100)
My loverGorin Mayumi
Released in 1980, this song became Mayumi Itsuwa’s 18th single and her biggest hit.
Written in memory of the producer from her debut days who died in a traffic accident, it also marked her first appearance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics convey the poignant, painful feelings of a woman thinking of her lover.
Falling in LoveKobayashi Akiko
It was chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama series “To Friday Wives III: Falling in Love,” and it sings about the painful, heartrending feelings of a woman who has fallen for a married man.
Artists of all genders have covered it, and it remains popular at karaoke even today.
First loveMurashita Kōzō
A quintessential unrequited-love song of the Showa era, Kozo Murashita’s masterpiece.
Released in February 1983 as his fifth single, it became a major hit, peaking at No.
3 on the Oricon singles chart.
With its lively melody and delicate lyrics portraying the tender feelings of youthful love, this song remains a classic in the hearts of many.
A monument featuring the song has even been erected in Minamata City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Murashita’s hometown, and it continues to be loved today.
It’s a perfect track for those moments when you want to feel the bittersweetness and transience of first love, or to reminisce about your youth.
Red Sweet PeaMatsuda Seiko
This song performed by Seiko Matsuda is a poignant masterpiece of a ballad that slowly seeps into the heart.
The lyrics beautifully intertwine spring scenery with the ache of unrequited love, striking a deep chord.
Matsuda’s clear, soaring vocals capture the delicate feelings of a girl in love with nothing left out.
Released in February 1982 as her eighth single, it became a major hit and was also chosen as the ending theme for the popular TV program “Music Fair.” It’s a recommended track not only for those troubled by love, but also for moments when you want to feel your feelings for someone special.
The Day the Seagulls FlewWatanabe Machiko
A poignant love story spun by Machiko Watanabe, one of the defining singer-songwriters of the Showa era.
Set against a seaside backdrop, this song gives voice to the complex feelings toward a lover who is leaving.
Released in April 1978, it became a hit, selling 460,000 copies.
Akira Ito’s lyrics and Watanabe’s own composition blend beautifully, and her moving vocals leave a deep impression.
The lyrics delicately portray the emotions of a woman seeing her lover off, conveying not only the sorrow of parting but also affection and respect for the other person.
It’s a song that stays close to the heart—one you’ll want to listen to when healing from heartbreak or when savoring your feelings for someone special.