Nostalgic yet new! Songs that made a comeback and became revival hits on TikTok
We live in an era where social media is essential if you want to stay on top of what’s new and trending.
Among them, TikTok is a must-have platform, especially for younger generations.
There are countless songs that went viral on TikTok and found a second wave of popularity.
In this article, we’ll introduce songs released from the Showa to Heisei eras that achieved revival hits thanks to TikTok.
Among these hit songs, many were actually popular even earlier and have cover versions as well.
Try comparing the original tracks with the cover versions and enjoy the differences.
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- A revival hit driven by social media! Heisei-era masterpieces that are resonating with Gen Z today
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- A Showa-era song that had a revival hit on YouTube Shorts
- Popular songs on TikTok
- [Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
- An addictive song used on TikTok
- Hits that resonate across generations! Popular 1990s songs on TikTok
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- Revival among the youth? Japanese dance music that was a hit in the 1980s. Showa-era dance tracks.
- Pick up the songs that went viral on social media! Reiwa-era dance numbers
Nostalgic yet new! Songs that re-broke on TikTok and became revival hits (1–10)
Sign of LovePUFFY
A classic song that paints a faint, fleeting feeling of love.
Known as one of PUFFY’s signature works, it was released in 1998 and written and composed by Masamune Kusano of Spitz.
Coupled with arrangement by Tamio Okuda, it became a gently touching track that sinks into the heart.
In 2016, it was also used in a Kirin Beer commercial, with the two members of PUFFY appearing and drawing attention.
The lyrics, depicting a shy young man falling in love, are especially memorable.
The joy and bittersweet ache of love are expressed in a beautifully balanced way, resonating with listeners.
It’s a perfect song for those troubled by love or holding feelings for someone special.
A Member of the Fire BrigadeKōda Kumi
The resurgence of nostalgic songs has been a hot topic on social media! Kumi Koda’s 2010 cover of Rats & Star’s “Megumi no Hito” became a revival hit, especially among young people.
On TikTok, songs that make an impact in a short time are popular, so this catchy tune is a perfect fit.
The choreography, including the pose where you make a peace sign near your eyes, is addictively fun.
Humorous, rhythmic songs seem to resonate with people no matter the era.
kissorijinarurabu
On TikTok, not only trendy songs but also many revival hits of old favorites are emerging.
ORIGINAL LOVE’s 1993 release “Kiss” was used as the theme song for the drama “Adult Kiss.” It has gained popularity among teens, especially through dance videos, and has become a song loved across generations.
The track features a jazzy sound reminiscent of soul music.
Why not give this moody, mature charmer a listen?
[Nostalgic yet New!] Songs that made a comeback and became revival hits on TikTok (11–20)
Playback Part 2Yamaguchi Momoe
A Showa-era idol a bit different from today’s image of an idol: Momoe Yamaguchi’s signature and smash-hit song.
Following “Red Shock,” it sold over 500,000 copies.
Thanks to a TikTok trend—where you glare at your partner, keep a blank expression, then jump straight into the choreography—the song has enjoyed a revival, so many younger people likely know it too.
When she performed it on NHK, it made headlines that the word “Porsche” in the lyrics was changed to “car.” A nostalgic track with cool, well-placed breaks.
First LoveUtada Hikaru
The third single by Hikaru Utada, released in 1999.
She wrote and composed the song at just 16 years old, impressing many with her remarkable talent.
The lyrics delicately portray the pain of heartbreak and the lingering memory of a first love, resonating with countless listeners.
Taken from the album “First Love,” it reached No.
2 on the Oricon Singles Chart and was hugely popular at karaoke.
It’s a song that anyone who has felt the ache of love or the pain of parting can relate to.
Recently, it has gained attention among younger audiences on TikTok and has become a timeless classic loved across generations.
Love Song of LumMatsutani Yūko
This song, famous as the opening theme of the anime Urusei Yatsura, features Yuko Matsutani’s clear vocals and a distinctive, bleepy 1980s sound.
Its lyrics, which portray the bittersweet feelings of a girl in love, are sure to resonate with many.
Released in October 1981, it became a major hit and has continued to be beloved over the years, even being used in a Tokyo Gas commercial.
Combining nostalgia with freshness, this track is recommended not only for those who want to reminisce, but also for younger listeners drawn to retro vibes.
Rediscovered on TikTok, this is a song you should definitely give a listen.
I like you, I like you—I love you.Togawa Jun
TikTok is becoming a trendsetter not only in Japan but also overseas.
This song—the title track from singer-songwriter Jun Togawa’s 1985 album—stands out for its one-of-a-kind sound.
It’s gone viral abroad as well, packed with borderless appeal.
The edgy, poppy melody leaves a strong impression.
The dynamic arrangement conveys her cute feelings in a straightforward way.
Singing with the candor of a young girl, she at times shows a love so intense it can be frightening.
If you’ve ever felt “I’m so in love I might lose my mind,” you’ll relate.