[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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[Masterpieces of Showa Kayō] Captivating Showa-era pop songs loved by younger generations (41–50)
UFOpinku redii
UFO, one of Pink Lady’s signature songs that many people who lived through the Showa era copied the dance to.
Released in 1977, the song was later used in 1999 as the commercial jingle for Nissin Yakisoba U.F.O., which shares the same name.
From its melody springs a mysterious world: the song depicts a romance between an alien and a human, making the entire piece surreal and wondrous.
It portrays how their feelings are easily conveyed to each other, and how the narrator becomes increasingly drawn to a partner full of charms beyond those of ordinary humans.
Its distinctive dance might well catch on with the TikTok generation too.
The Door to SummerMatsuda Seiko
A masterpiece that brings out Seiko Matsuda’s fresh charm to the fullest.
From the intro, the sparkling, unforgettable sound seems to capture the momentum of the 80s idol boom and the youthful spirit of Seiko’s generation.
Released in 1981, it overflows with an excitement that hints at a new kind of 80s.
The arrangement is by Masaaki Omura, who also worked on the previous hits Blue Coral Reef and Cheery Blossom, and his pairing with composer Kazuo Zaitsu is unbeatable.
Lose yourself in the lyrics that feel like a snapshot of youth and in the pure, exhilarating freshness.
Red Sweet PeaMatsuda Seiko
Akai Sweet Pea, sung by Seiko Matsuda—one of the most iconic idols of the Showa era.
Released in 1982, the song was composed by Yumi Matsutoya under the pen name Kureta Keiko.
Covered by a wide range of artists including Hideaki Tokunaga and Mone Kamishiraishi, and even by Nana Mizuki in character for an anime she appeared in, the song has been passed down across generations.
Many people say they grew to love it because their parents listened to it, and it’s a popular choice among younger singers at karaoke as well.
Even after many years since its release, it remains one of the quintessential songs of spring, cherished for its charming lyrics that straightforwardly express feelings for a loved one.
foreignerKUBOTA Saki
From an intro that exudes an exotic atmosphere, Saki Kubota’s debut single draws you in before you know it.
The lyrics, suffused with loneliness and a sense of loss, are sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of heartbreak.
Released in October 1979, the song was also featured in a Sanyo Electric commercial and sparked a huge response, reaching No.
1 on the Oricon chart in December.
It’s a track that fully showcases her talent as a singer-songwriter, perfect for times when you want to heal the wounds of a broken heart or take a hard look at yourself.
Fall in LoveKobayashi Akiko
A gem of a love song that portrays the aching feelings of a woman in love.
With moving lyrics by Reiko Yukawa and a beautiful melody composed by Akiko Kobayashi herself, this work harmonizes perfectly to vividly depict the delicate emotions of a woman suffering from a forbidden love.
Released in August 1985, it was also used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Friday Wives.” It topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart seven times and became a massive hit, ranking third on the 1985 year-end chart.
Even today, it continues to be beloved by people of all ages as a song that stays close to the hearts of those who harbor secret affections and wavering emotions.
Love Song of LumMatsutani Yūko
That glittering techno-pop sounds fresh and cute all over again when you listen now! Written in 1981 as the theme song for the anime Urusei Yatsura, the track is memorable for its distinctly ’80s beepy, chiptune-like sound.
Composer Izumi Kobayashi is known for composing, arranging, and even singing numerous anime theme songs, and she’s been active on the front lines, supporting overseas activities by artists like Denki Groove and Ken Ishii.
In 2021, a remixed version of this song was released as the first installment of the Reboot project—so you won’t want to miss the latest developments!
240 Million Eyes -Exotic Japan-Gō Hiromi
While exuding the spirit of the Showa era, this song radiates a charm that still resonates today.
The striking phrase “240 Million Eyes,” symbolizing people across Japan, leaves a deep impression on listeners.
Hiromi Go’s vocals and performance blend beautifully, and the lyrics, which celebrate Japan’s beauty and culture, fill us with pride and confidence.
Released in November 1984, this track became a signature work that symbolizes Hiromi Go’s career.
Riding a disco-style rhythm, his energetic delivery is breathtaking.
It’s the perfect song for when you want to rediscover what’s great about Japan or when you need a boost.
Please give it a listen.