DESIREAkina Nakamori1rank/position

DESIRE -jounetsu-

This is one of Akina Nakamori’s signature songs, themed around burning love and singing of fiery passion.

First aired in February 1986 as a TV commercial song, it was later released as a single and became a huge hit.

With this song, Nakamori won the Japan Record Award for the second consecutive year, establishing her status as a singer at the young age of 20.

Showcasing dramatic expressiveness and powerful vocals, this track is perfect for livening up a karaoke session or when you want to experience a classic from the Showa era.

Be sure to check out the modern twist on traditional Japanese attire and the unique choreography, said to be inspired by a baseball pitching motion.

Tears aren't just for show.Akina Nakamori2rank/position

[Official] Akina Nakamori / “Tears Aren’t Just for Show” (Live in ’87: A HUNDRED days at Tokyo Kosei Nenkin Kaikan, 1987-10-17) AKINA NAKAMORI

A signature hit from Akina Nakamori that represents the 1990s! Released in November 1984, this song was written and composed by singer-songwriter Yosui Inoue.

It topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and ranked sixth on the year-end singles chart for 1985, becoming a massive hit with over 620,000 copies sold.

Singing about the transience of human relationships, loneliness, and the strength to be honest with one’s own feelings, this piece symbolizes Nakamori’s turning point from idol to artist.

With lyrics that resonate across generations and a beautiful melody, it’s perfect for singing at karaoke with your boss or clients.

DESIRE -Passion-Akina Nakamori3rank/position

Akina Nakamori - DESIRE (Passion)

Akina Nakamori is an idol with a mature aura that’s rare among today’s idols.

While people in their 40s may not be her direct generation, many households likely had siblings or parents who were obsessed with her.

Among her songs, “DESIRE -Jounetsu-” is one I especially recommend.

It does require a somewhat advanced sense of phrasing, but since it doesn’t go into high notes and, aside from the end of the chorus, doesn’t feature long sustained tones, it’s very easy to sing even for those who aren’t confident in their pitch.

Slow motionAkina Nakamori4rank/position

[Official] Akina Nakamori 'Slow Motion (from “Hajimemashite”)' [1st Single (Released May 1, 1982)] Akina Nakamori / Slow Motion

A sweet yet wistful classic that captures the moment of a fateful encounter.

This is Akina Nakamori’s debut single, released in May 1982.

Etsuko Kisugi’s lyrics and Takao Kisugi’s melody are perfectly in harmony, beautifully portraying the fluttering heart of a young girl captivated by someone she meets on the beach.

The transparent vocals and the arrangement that makes time feel as if it flows slowly leave a strong impression.

Also included on the album “Prologue (Jomaku),” this masterpiece later led to a revival hit.

Highly recommended for those seeking a heartwarming love song or wanting to recall the feeling of falling in love for the first time.

Girl AAkina Nakamori5rank/position

Shoujo A (2012 Remastered)

Akina Nakamori’s second single, which brought a fresh breeze to the idol scene of the 1980s.

Portraying the inner world of a defiant girl, this song played a crucial role in establishing her rebellious image.

Released in July 1982, it became Nakamori’s first hit and a turning point in her career.

The lyrics, themed around adolescent conflict and self-discovery, resonated with many young listeners and are vividly conveyed through Nakamori’s distinctive vocal timbre and expressive delivery.

This track evokes the complex emotions of youth along with a sense of nostalgia, and it’s a great choice when you want to get everyone energized at karaoke.

Second LoveAkina Nakamori6rank/position

[Official] Akina Nakamori 'Second Love (from “Hajimemashite”)' [#1] [3rd Single (released Nov 10, 1982)] Akina Nakamori / Second Love

A heartrending love ballad released in November 1982 that delicately portrays the feelings of a girl inexperienced in romance.

Within its gently enveloping, warm melody, the bashfulness and bittersweet longing of a girl in love are woven.

The song earned Ms.

Nakamori her first-ever No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and is regarded as one of her signature works.

Since June 2024, it has also been used as the departure melody at Seibu Ikebukuro Line’s Kiyose Station, continuing to be cherished across generations.

With its relaxed tempo and tender melodic line, this piece is also an easy, soothing choice to sing at karaoke.

ShipwreckAkina Nakamori7rank/position

Nanpasen (2014 Remaster)

An emotionally rich ballad depicting a woman’s heart adrift in deep loneliness after losing the one she loves.

Originally released by Tokiko Kato in 1984, the song was covered by Akina Nakamori in 1987 and performed at the 38th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

While her mind tells her to “give up,” her emotions overflow and drive her to want to chase after her beloved—feelings that Nakamori’s sultry vocals express to perfection.

The song won the Gold Prize at the 29th Japan Record Awards and topped the Oricon charts, achieving an astonishing 410,000 copies sold.

It has also inspired numerous covers by renowned artists such as Kaori Momoi and Tomomi Kahala.

A gem of a masterpiece to listen to alone, quietly, when heartbreak leaves you on the verge of breaking.