Showa-Era Wedding Songs: A Timeless Collection to Grace Your Ceremony

RunawayShaneruzu

Masayuki Suzuki – Runaway / REAL TIME THE FIRST TAKE

This is the debut single by the music group Chanels, who took the nation by storm with their black-painted visuals and authentic choral work.

Set to a lively doo-wop rhythm, it expresses a strong resolve to live with a loved one even if it means making the whole world an enemy.

Released in February 1980, the song quickly became a sensation after being featured in a Pioneer boombox commercial, and went on to sell over 1.1 million copies.

Its irresistible, body-moving excitement has also made it a wedding staple, often performed as a fun group routine by friends of the bride and groom in matching outfits.

It’s the perfect song to play when you want to celebrate a couple’s new journey in a lively and grand way.

Sometimes, old storiesKatō Tokiko

Porco Rosso @ Sometimes, Old Stories Tokiko Kato Hayao Miyazaki Porco Rosso Japanese Anime Music Instrumental Flying Crimson Pig Hero Japanese Animation

This is a ballad for adults that brings back fond memories the moment you hear it.

Created by Tokiko Kato, known as a singer-songwriter, it was included on the album “MY STORY/Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo,” released in September 1986, and was issued as a single the following year.

You may also know it as the ending theme of the 1992 film Porco Rosso.

Set to a beautiful waltz of piano and strings, the song looks back on youthful dreams and setbacks, and conversations with friends.

If you play it at a wedding—on the day of a new beginning—during a moment of gratitude to the parents who raised you, the venue is sure to be filled with warm tears.

Why not choose this classic, which conveys both the weight of life and a sense of hope, for your most meaningful moments?

A Song Dedicated to My New BrideEri Chiemi

Chiemi Eri — A Song Dedicated to a New Bride

This work was created by Meiko Nakamura and Yoshiyuki Kozu—known as a devoted married couple—and sung by Chiemi Eri.

The lyrics, which warmly embrace not only the hopes of newlywed life but also the moments of sudden anxiety, really touch the heart.

The message—let’s share both joy and sorrow as we walk together—feels like the perfect cheer for two people about to become husband and wife.

Released as a single in March 1964, it was also loved as the theme song for the TBS drama “Zoku Sakiko-san Chotto.” “A Song Dedicated to a New Wife” is just right as a gift for a bride starting a new chapter.

Whether from a mother to her daughter, or from a friend to the bride, why not entrust your wishes for happiness to this song?

Lapis-Lazuli EarthMatsuda Seiko

Seiko Matsuda “Lapis Lazuli-Colored Earth” Official Music Video

On the grand stage of a wedding, Seiko Matsuda’s classic “Ruriiro no Chikyuu” (Jewel-toned Earth) envelops the venue with profound emotion.

Through expansive motifs of dawn, the sea, and the Earth itself, this piece depicts hope for the future and universal love, shining perfectly for two people taking their first step together.

Though not released as a single, it was included on the June 1986 album “SUPREME,” and it has continued to be loved across generations—for example, it was used in April 2010 as astronaut Naoko Yamazaki’s wake-up call.

Its gently conversational vocal style is sure to bring tears during moments like the candle service or expressions of gratitude to parents.

It’s a song we highly recommend for the couple embarking on their long journey together.

Red Sweet PeaMatsuda Seiko

Seiko Matsuda “Red Sweet Pea” (from Seikoland Budokan Live ’83)

With an intro that vividly conjures hints of spring and seaside scenery, this Showa-era pop masterpiece delicately portrays the shifting emotions of a woman in love.

The golden duo of lyricist Takashi Matsumoto and composer Keisuke Kureta—better known as Yumi Matsutoya—brings out the full charm of Seiko Matsuda’s vocals.

Released in January 1982 as her eighth single and included on the acclaimed album Pineapple, the song has retained its brilliance for over 40 years, even being featured in a Fujifilm commercial in 2023.

Its melody, brimming with pure feeling, is perfect for wedding dress changes or moments of expressing gratitude to parents.

As a timeless classic beloved across generations, it’s wholeheartedly recommended for couples hoping to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Words of FarewellKaientai

Okuru Kotoba

When it comes to standard numbers that symbolize the season of farewells, many people probably think of this famous song by Kaientai.

While it actually sings of the pain of a broken heart, it’s filled with deep affection that wishes happiness for the other person, making it a fitting choice for a wedding—a fresh new beginning.

Released as a single in November 1979, it became widely known as the theme song for the TV drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3-B,” starring Tetsuya Takeda.

Its message—overcoming sorrow to discover kindness—is perfect for scenes where the couple sets off on their journey together as husband and wife, or for expressing gratitude to the parents who raised them.

Also included on the album “Wajinden,” this song gently adds color to that moving moment when you hold back tears and set out with a smile.

Sazanami Wedding RoadMatsuda Seiko

Seiko Matsuda - Ripple Wedding Road

A song with a soft, breezy atmosphere that makes you feel as if you can hear the sea breeze and the sound of waves.

Seiko Matsuda’s clear, expansive vocals reach your ears as pleasantly as gentle ripples.

Included on the album “The 9th Wave,” released in June 1985, this track stands out for its lyrics that tenderly embrace the calm love between two people.

You can almost picture a couple walking barefoot along the beach.

It’s a perfect song for those who want to share a special moment with someone dear.