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[Showa Era] A roundup of nostalgic folk song classics and popular tracks you’ll want to sing at karaoke
What kind of image do you have of the music genre known as “folk songs”? Perhaps many of you picture Showa-era singers with an acoustic guitar in hand, singing lyrics like private diaries of everyday life—and at times delivering political messages.
In Japan, folk songs became a booming trend from the 1960s to the 1970s, and countless classic tracks that made music history were born as the style evolved.
In this article, we’ve curated a wide selection of nostalgic Japanese folk song classics that you’ll definitely want to try singing at karaoke.
Whether you experienced them in real time or you’re a younger listener who loves Showa-era music, be sure to check them out!
[Showa Era] A roundup of nostalgic folk song classics and popular tracks to sing at karaoke (1–10)
First loveKozo Murashita
This is one of Kozo Murashita’s signature works, beloved by many as a classic of the Showa-era folk scene.
With its lively melody and delicate lyrics, this song paints a portrait of the faint stirrings of youthful love.
Released in February 1983, it became a major hit, reaching No.
3 on the Oricon singles chart.
The lyrics, inspired by his time in Hiroshima, and the driving arrangement vividly capture a fleeting moment of youth.
It’s also a popular karaoke choice, recommended for those who’ve experienced first love or want to reminisce about their younger days.
Give this piece—packed with Murashita’s unique sensibility—a try and sing it yourself!
Kanda RiverKosetsu Minami & Kaguyahime
It’s a song distinguished by lyrical lyrics filled with youthful memories and a melody that deeply resonates with the heart.
Released as a single in September 1973, it became a massive hit, selling over 1.
2 million copies.
The following year, a film of the same title was released, and the work achieved popularity that could be called a social phenomenon.
Widely cherished as one of Kaguyahime’s signature songs, it remains a classic in the history of Japanese folk music.
It’s also a popular choice for karaoke; thanks to its simple melody and comfortable vocal range, even those who find folk songs challenging will find it approachable.
Why not try singing it when you want to look back on memories of love and youth?
Wandering Love SongTsuyoshi Nagabuchi
Known as a poignant heartbreak song, this track was released as a single in October 1978 and captured the hearts of many as Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s debut.
Its delicate acoustic guitar tones and emotionally charged vocals leave a strong impression.
The lyrics, which depict a romance born from the loneliness of living alone and its eventual end, resonated with many listeners and made the song a popular choice for karaoke.
It has become a staple in Nagabuchi’s national tours, helping to raise his profile.
For anyone who has experienced the pain and conflict of a broken heart, it is a song that will surely strike a chord.
Please give me wingsRed bird
This is a signature song by Akaitori, celebrated for its powerful and beautiful harmonies.
Like a bird unfurling pure white wings and soaring freely across the sky, it’s a classic that fills you with a fresh, hopeful feeling.
Released in February 1971 as the B-side to the single “Takeda no Komoriuta,” this track has remained beloved across generations, even being used at the opening ceremonies of the Nagano and Tokyo Olympics.
For karaoke, it’s best sung with a clear, expansive voice.
It’s sure to get audiences of all ages—from the young to the elderly—excited.
Be sure to sing it with your feelings poured into it!
Is it true that you’re getting married?Da Capo
Beginning with a short letter that arrives on a morning after the rain, this song is known as Da Capo’s signature work.
Released in June 1974 as their fourth single, it became a major hit, selling 312,000 copies on the Oricon chart.
The protagonist’s complex feelings upon learning of an ex-lover’s marriage are woven together with beautiful imagery—red cosmos flowers and a blue breeze.
Packed with the charm of folk music, it’s a song that resonates deeply when sung at karaoke.
Recommended for those who have experienced heartbreak or who want to express the wish for a loved one’s happiness.
In the Great Sky and on the Vast EarthChiharu Matsuyama
Set against the boundless sky and vast land, this song powerfully sings of life’s challenges and hopes, resonating deeply with listeners.
Its poetic lyrics—distinctive of Chiharu Matsuyama—and his vocals, both strong and delicate, are captivating.
The piece is included on the album “A Song I Wrote for You,” released in June 1977, and was also used as part of the soundtrack for the Fuji TV drama “The Ugly Duckling.” In karaoke, it demands a wide vocal range and expressive singing, but if you immerse yourself in the world of the lyrics, it’s sure to touch the hearts of your audience.
Why not sing it out with all your might, picturing the great nature of Hokkaido?
Lingering Snowdolphin
Here is a classic Showa-era kayōkyoku that paints the passing of the seasons and the bittersweetness of parting.
Released as a single in 1975, it became a major hit through Iruka’s cover.
Its acoustic flavor and lyrics that vividly evoke falling snow leave a deep impression.
The key is to convey the subtle emotions woven into its understated, narrative delivery.
With a modest vocal range, it’s easy for anyone—regardless of gender—to sing.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear if you’ve experienced a farewell with a lover or friend, or when you feel the arrival of spring.