Popular Showa-era songs you can use in Instagram Stories
There are moments when you really feel the passage of time—like when old songs become revival hits through social media or get highly praised by younger generations.
So this time, we’re introducing a selection of popular Showa-era songs that are perfect for Instagram Stories!
Even among older tracks, there are countless masterpieces still loved today—covered by contemporary artists or used in commercials.
We’ve gathered songs that have regained the spotlight mainly through social media, so be sure to check them out!
I’d be thrilled if you used the songs I introduce in your own Instagram Stories.
Let’s get started!
Popular Showa-era songs you can use for Instagram Stories (1–10)
You are in full color.Ohtaki Eiichi
Known as a classic from the Showa era, this song is also very popular on Instagram Stories.
Its lyrics delicately portray the feelings of longing for a lost love, which likely resonate with many listeners.
Released in March 1981, it was also included on the album “A LONG VACATION.” There’s even a unique production anecdote: although they originally planned to raise the chorus by a whole tone, the lyrics felt off, so they ended up lowering only the chorus key instead.
It’s a track I recommend even in the Reiwa era.
Use it on your Instagram Story, and it’s sure to convey a sense of nostalgia and bittersweet emotion.
Friday ChinatownYasuha
A song celebrating the exotic atmosphere of Chinatown is drawing renewed attention amid the city pop boom.
Its appeal lies in lyrics that depict a lively midnight Chinatown, bursting neon signs, and the liberating feeling of being in a foreign land.
Released as a debut single in September 1981, it was composed by Yasuha herself.
Around 2020, it was reappraised by Korean DJs, leading to a digital release in May 2022.
Furthermore, in June of the same year, a reissue of the debut album TRANSIT on analog vinyl was released, earning high praise from fans both in Japan and abroad.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to feel an exotic mood and a sense of freedom.
Use it in your Instagram Stories to add a nostalgic charm to your posts.
National Sake-Drinking Festival Song of Japanbarakūda
When it comes to the comic band Barakuda, this song is their signature hit.
Its defining feature is a celebration of Japan’s drinking culture, cheerfully exploring the reasons people drink while highlighting local specialties from regions across the country.
Released in December 1979, the track features lyrics by Keiji Okamoto and composition by Beethoven Suzuki.
It’s said to be modeled after “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” the song from Disney’s Cinderella.
If you’re using it in an Instagram Story, it’s perfect for scenes from drinking parties or travel memories.
It’s a fun way to learn about Japanese culture and regional uniqueness, so it’s a great pick for when you want to get hyped with friends or family.
Midnight PretendersAran Tomoko
This song sung by Tomoko Aran is very popular on Instagram Stories.
Its lyrics, depicting a secret love between two people drifting along the nighttime sea, are striking, and it’s known as a classic of city pop.
It was included on the album “Floating Space,” released in May 1983, with music composed by Tetsurō Oda.
In 2022, it was sampled by Canadian artist The Weeknd, bringing it to a new audience worldwide.
It’s the perfect track for creating a mature atmosphere—whether for a night drive or making memories with a lover.
Be sure to try using it in your Instagram Story!
I can’t put it into wordsOff Course
This song, which beautifully expresses feelings that are hard to put into words, is also very popular on Instagram.
Kazumasa Oda’s delicate voice and each of his phrases resonate deeply in the heart.
Released in February 1982, the track is also included on the album “over.” In 1999, Oda re-recorded it for a Meiji Life Insurance commercial, and it has since been loved across generations.
It’s the perfect song when you want to convey the complex emotions felt in love or at life’s turning points.
Try using it in your Instagram Stories—it’s sure to touch your followers’ hearts as well.
Love VacationZa Pīnattsu
This song about a summer romance is one of The Peanuts’ signature tracks and is very popular on Instagram Stories.
Released in April 1963, its lyrics portray a holiday fling set to a light, upbeat melody.
Written by Tokiko Iwatani and composed by Hiroshi Miyagawa, the piece won the Arrangement Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards and was also performed at the 14th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
It’s a perfect choice for anyone who wants to share memories of summer or joyful moments with a lover in their Stories.
Give it a try!
Midnight Door / Stay With MeMatsubara Miki
Miki Matsubara’s debut single is gaining popularity on Instagram.
Released in November 1979, the song reached No.
28 on the Oricon charts.
It’s known as a signature city pop track, highlighted by Matsubara’s jazzy, sultry vocals.
The lyrics portray deep emotions of living with lost love and memories, resonating with many listeners.
In the latter half of 2020, it surged in popularity overseas, becoming a global revival hit.
It’s the perfect song for when you want to reminisce or get through a goodbye with someone important.
Try using it in your Instagram Stories.