Showa-era songs that went viral on TikTok / revival hit songs
Showa-era masterpieces are suddenly popular and gaining attention on TikTok as “emoi” (emotionally moving).
Thanks to the spread of social media, people who didn’t experience these hits when they first came out can approach them with a different sensibility—and a fresh feeling.
I’d like to introduce some Showa songs that went viral after being used in TikTok dance videos, as well as tracks being highlighted as must-listen songs right now.
It’s a reminder that true classics get rediscovered and continue to spread over time.
Whether you’re from that generation or not, please give them all a listen!
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- [Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
- Nothing but iconic hits that defined an era! 2000s classics popular on TikTok
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- A Showa-era song that had a revival hit on YouTube Shorts
- So nostalgic it feels new? Showa retro classics that colored Japan’s period of rapid economic growth
- Pick up the songs that went viral on social media! Reiwa-era dance numbers
- Showa-era love songs: A roundup of timeless love songs cherished across generations
Showa-era songs that went viral on TikTok: Revival Hit Songs (11–20)
A Member of the Fire BrigadeRATS&STAR
“Megumi no Hito” is a soulful kayōkyoku (Japanese pop) released in 1983 by Rats & Star, with Masayuki Suzuki as the lead vocalist.
Kumi Koda’s cover is also well known, and lately the song has seen a resurgence on social media like TikTok, along with a signature pose where the peace sign is turned sideways.
The original track blends Latin and funk elements, while Kumi Koda’s cover is arranged as dance music with a programmed, electronic base.
It’s fun to compare the original and the cover, so give it a try if you like.
Lonely Tropical FishWink
This song, with its fresh sound incorporating Eurobeat that was popular overseas at the time, was released in 1989 as Wink’s fifth single.
It opens with synthesizer tones, kicks off with a beeping, game-like sound, and features catchy, repeated phrases that really stick with you.
Back then, despite wearing cute outfits, they were the idols who didn’t smile.
Their signature spin into a striking pose and their gently swaying choreography were performed with unwaveringly blank expressions—performances that still feel innovative today.
Be sure to pay attention to Japan’s unique originality in combining idols with Eurobeat.
TouchIwasaki Yoshimi
Many people cherish “Touch” as an iconic anime song of the Showa era.
It was written specifically as the opening theme for the baseball anime of the same name.
Released in 1985, it became an unprecedented hit.
Set to a folk-style melody, the lyrics portray the bittersweet romance of youth.
Incidentally, the song drew renewed attention in 2021 when a parody version was featured in a McDonald’s commercial.
Be sure to compare the versions.
Lullaby of a Serrated HeartChekkāzu
Released in September 1983, this debut single by The Checkers revolutionized Japan’s music scene.
With unique expressions of youthful pain and struggle, it resonated deeply with young listeners.
The lyrics were originally written for Hiroyuki Sanada, but in a twist of fate were adopted as a Checkers song.
Although the initial response was lukewarm, it climbed the charts the following year and became a major hit.
The saxophone intro is unforgettable, and it’s still a crowd-pleaser at karaoke.
It’s been called “emo” on TikTok and is popular as background music for dance videos.
Whether you remember those days or are discovering it with fresh ears, give it a listen.
Dancing Hero (Eat You Up)Oginome Yōko
This disco-influenced song, released in 1985 (Showa 60), is a cover of a British singer’s track and became Yoko Oginome’s seventh single.
It won numerous music awards and ranked 12th on the Oricon year-end chart.
It also gained attention through use on television programs.
In 2017, it was thrust back into the spotlight thanks to a performance by the Tomioka High School Dance Club in Osaka Prefecture, leading to a revival hit.
The lyrics depict a night of parties and romance, expressing a longing for a dreamlike, one-night encounter.
It’s the perfect track for anyone looking to fire up a dance party!