In recent years, thanks to the influence of social media and subscription services, songs from the Showa and Heisei eras have been enjoying more and more revival hits.
In particular, Japanese city pop born in the Showa era has been reevaluated worldwide, becoming a movement that can’t be summed up with the term “nostalgia.”
So this time, we’re introducing popular 1980s songs on TikTok!
They’re all timeless tracks that will feel nostalgic to those who lived through the era and refreshingly new to younger listeners, so be sure to check them out.
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Including worldwide hits! 80s songs popular on TikTok (1–10)
Love Song of LumMatsutani Yūko
Known as Yuko Matsutani’s debut single, this song became a major hit as the opening theme for the anime Urusei Yatsura.
It expresses the complex feelings of a lovestruck girl—interwoven with the anime’s story—through Matsutani’s distinctive vocals, leaving a strong impression of aching longing and unwavering love.
Released in October 1981 by Canyon Records, it has remained beloved across generations.
It’s a timeless track recommended not only for anime fans but also for anyone who wants to experience the intricate emotions of love.
Friday ChinatownYasuha
This song is one of the defining tracks of Japan’s 1980s music scene and is known as Yasuha’s debut work.
Set in an exotically atmospheric Chinatown, its lyrics strikingly portray a sense of freedom and fresh experiences.
Released in September 1981, it only reached No.
69 on the Oricon chart at the time, but it was reappraised amid the city pop boom around 2020 and gained new attention.
Also included on her debut album “TRANSIT,” the track is perfect for when you want to soak in a foreign ambiance.
It’s especially nice to listen to while imagining the nightscape of Chinatown.
Plastic LoveTakeuchi Mariya
A track included on Mariya Takeuchi’s sixth album, “VARIETY,” that exudes refined simplicity and stylishness.
Released in 1984, it initially sold fewer than ten thousand copies, but in the late 2010s—amid the overseas rediscovery of 1980s Japanese city pop—its popularity exploded as an emblematic song.
An unofficial upload on YouTube has garnered over 24 million views, turning it into a classic that hints at new possibilities for music.
The lyrics, which portray the feelings of a woman hurt by past love, and the uniquely atmospheric arrangement possess a charm you don’t often find in today’s music.
Lullaby of a Serrated HeartChekkāzu
The debut single by the seven-member rock band The Checkers, who dominated the J-POP scene in the 1980s.
The song is characterized by lyrics that portray the feelings of rebellious youth and a rock-influenced sound.
Although it did not receive much attention upon its release in September 1983, it was reevaluated following the success of their second single in January the following year, eventually peaking at No.
8 on the Oricon charts.
Widely loved across various media, it was frequently used in the TV drama “Uchi no Ko ni Kagitte…”.
Known as one of The Checkers’ signature songs, it became one of the most frequently performed numbers at their concerts up until their breakup.
Its catchy melody and striking lyrics also make it perfect for getting the crowd going at karaoke.
FANTASYNakahara Meiko
A song that portrays rebirth and new beginnings.
Released in 1982, it is included on the album “Cinderella Until 2 O’Clock – FRIDAY MAGIC.” Written and composed by Meiko Nakahara herself, the track was arranged by Hiroshi Shinkawa.
True to Nakahara’s reputation for musical versatility, it’s a pioneering piece that harnesses the accessibility of kayōkyoku while incorporating elements from various genres such as disco, Latin, and synth-pop.
This work is a song that helps you overcome heartbreak and gives you the courage to step into a new romance.
It’s a perfect track for those struggling with love or anyone ready to move forward.
Tears aren’t just for show.Nakamori Akina
A timeless masterpiece emblematic of the 1980s, where a translucent singing voice and heartrending lyrics blend exquisitely.
Known as one of Akina Nakamori’s signature songs, it has captured the hearts of many listeners since its release in November 1984.
It topped the Oricon charts and became a major hit, selling over 620,000 copies.
The song, crafted by Yosui Inoue, beautifully conveys the loneliness and sorrow felt amid the shifting tides of human relationships.
It portrays the feelings of a woman who has avoided shedding tears, conveying the value of tears as an expression of deep emotion.
A moving number that resonates with those who have experienced heartbreak and farewells.
Purple Town ・You Oughta Know By NowYagami Junko
A signature song by Junko Yagami that had a major impact on the 1980s music scene.
Inspired by her time studying in the United States, this piece powerfully celebrates the streets of New York and was also featured in a JAL commercial.
It became a huge hit, peaking at No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and selling about 600,000 copies.
After debuting at No.
9 on TBS’s “The Best Ten” on September 4, 1980, it claimed the top spot for two consecutive weeks in October.
It is also known as the song with which Yagami made her first appearance at the 31st NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year.
With its crystalline vocals and sophisticated melody, this track leaves a deep impression on listeners.