[Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
Nowadays, thanks to the internet, vinyl records, and other avenues, Showa-era pop songs have become popular with younger generations.
Here are some classic Showa hits that are especially loved by today’s youth!
We’re highlighting timeless songs that have been sung for decades, tracks that saw revival hits, and—city pop included—songs that are gaining fresh momentum by going viral on TikTok.
Many of these tracks are danceable, but part of the charm of Showa pop is how beautifully it lets you relax and sink into the music.
Let’s focus on that unique appeal of Showa-era pop.
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[Classic Showa Kayō Hits] Captivating Showa-era pop songs loved by younger generations (31–40)
The Day the Seagulls FlewWatanabe Machiko
Released in 1978, this work continues to shine with undimmed brilliance as one of Machiko Watanabe’s signature songs.
Its lyrics, depicting a seaside scene, skillfully express both lingering feelings for a former lover and the courage to move forward, resonating deeply with listeners.
It became a major hit, selling 460,000 copies, and won the Best New Artist Award at the 20th Japan Record Awards.
In 2007, a special stadium version was produced for Chiba Lotte Marines games, showcasing a new charm.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to quietly while gazing at the sea—perfect for moments when you need a bit of calm in your heart.
ambushIshikawa Hitomi
Hitomi Ishikawa, who debuted as an idol singer in 1978 with her cute looks and outstanding vocal ability, is remembered by some who knew that era for voicing the lead role in NHK’s puppet drama “Purim Purin Monogatari.” Despite having all the makings of both an idol and a singer, she struggled to land that crucial hit.
Determined—saying she’d be fine if this were her last song—she released her 11th single in 1981, and finally scored a hit with “Machibuse,” the song featured in this piece.
Originally released in 1976 by Seiko Miki, it’s a cover with lyrics and music by Yumi Arai (Yuming) and a rock-solid arrangement by Masataka Matsutoya—a classic of Showa-era pop.
Yuming later self-covered it under the name Yumi Arai and released it as a single in 1996, when it became a revival hit.
For younger music fans, although it’s straight Showa kayō, its arrangement blends a sophisticated, urbane sensibility akin to city pop, which feels fresh to them.
By the way, after turning sixty, Ishikawa started using social media and has been energetically entertaining both new and longtime fans.
I LOVE YOUOzaki Yutaka
Singer-songwriter Yutaka Ozaki, celebrated for his charismatic appeal and songs with direct, powerful messages, continues to influence many musicians even after his passing.
His signature 11th single, “I LOVE YOU,” drew fresh attention in recent years when his son, Hiroya Ozaki, also a singer-songwriter, performed it.
Its sentimental lyrics and melody, woven with a husky vocal tone, move people across generations.
It’s an immortal classic, beloved as a go-to song for karaoke as well.
If I Could Play the PianoNishida Toshiyuki
Toshiyuki Nishida is a singer who continues to make a strong impact with his distinctive performances while remaining highly active as a veteran actor.
“If Only I Could Play the Piano,” originally created as an insert song for the TV drama he starred in, Ikemoto Genta 80 Kilos, became a major hit and was ultimately chosen as the show’s main theme due to its popularity.
The lyrics, which reveal the protagonist’s feelings and background, carry a poignant quality that resonates even as times change.
With its beautiful melody and piano line that touches the heart, it stands as a classic representative of Showa-era pop.
I can’t stop this sadnessAnri
Anri, a city pop songstress who was active from the late Showa era to the early Heisei era.
Centered on the theme of heartbreak, this work is her 14th single, released in November 1983.
The contrast between the bright, quintessentially ’80s piano melody and the sorrowful lyrics is striking.
The painful turn of events—having a lover taken by a friend—is conveyed through Anri’s clear, translucent voice.
It was a major hit, ranking within the top 10 on the Oricon Singles Chart and appearing on TBS’s “The Best Ten” for nine consecutive weeks.
It’s a recommended track for when you want to heal the pain of heartbreak or sink into a wistful mood.
[Masterpieces of Showa Kayō] Captivating Showa-era pop songs loved by younger generations (41–50)
You’re 1000%1986 omega toraibu
The sparkling city pop by Omega Tribe, which was popular during Japan’s bubble era and later lost momentum, has come back into the spotlight thanks to Korean DJ/producer Night Tempo, who played this track at club events almost every time.
The high-quality groove played by a live band may actually feel fresh to the digital generation.
During the songwriting process, Carlos Toshiki, a Japanese-Brazilian who handled the vocals, pronounced the “100%” in the draft lyrics as cem in Portuguese, which sounded like “1000%.” Instead of correcting it, they decided it would be more interesting to leave it as “1000,” and that’s how the memorable chorus and title were born.
Sailor Suit and Machine GunYakushimaru Hiroko
The song that became a massive hit as the theme for a coming-of-age film was also Hiroko Yakushimaru’s debut.
Her clean, pure vocals perfectly match the lyrics depicting a girl’s growth, capturing the hearts of many listeners.
Released in November 1981, it became a major hit, selling around 1.2 million copies on the Oricon charts.
The jacket featuring visuals from the film is also memorable.
There’s even a self-cover version with a jazzy arrangement that exudes a more mature allure, offering a fresh way to appreciate the song.