Japanese Songs That Will Give You That Retro Vibe

Japanese old songs appear to be a current trend since the aesthetic vibe and retro feelings that some of us want are present in all forms of those songs. Those songs are occasionally accompanied by classic anime gifs, VHS, and pixelated clips inspired from the past. Even though some of us are non-Japanese speakers and can’t understand the lyrics until we look them up, we still listen to them since Japanese music is immaculate and you can’t argue with that. Here are some Japanese songs that will give you that retro vibe!

Photo source: Afterglow ATX

1. Plastic Love by Mariya Takeuchi

Have you ever scrolled through your YouTube feed and noticed that the site recommended this song to you? I know you do!

The lyrics to “Plastic Love” depicts the narrative of a lady who is so scarred by a breakup that she can only see love as a game, fully knowing that she is masking her loneliness with retail therapy and dancing the night away. Mariya Takeuchi’s number-one smash album, Variety, includes the song “Plastic Love” (1984). A year later, it was released as a single and was modestly successful, selling approximately 10,000 copies. Because of the beat and Mariya Takeuchi’s singing voice, the song itself is ideal for the desired retro feelings. Now, try listening to it on YouTube, Spotify, or your preferred music streaming service.

Photo source: SoundCloud

2. Stay with Me by Miki Matsubara

Miki Matsubara’s debut song, Mayonaka no Door (Stay with Me), was released on November 5, 1979. In 2020, 41 years after its first release, the song had a revival in popularity. The popular app TikTok, where many people from all around the world gather, blew up this song by Miki Matsubara and became a trend. This song is also perfect for experiencing Japanese retro vibes. Try listening to it on your preferred music streaming service.

Photo source: YouTube

3. Remember Summer Days by Anri

Remember Summer Days is a song from Anri’s sixth album, Timely!! (1983). Let’s just say that the song is my exclusive favorite from the City Pop genre. Whenever I listen to the song, the beat just carries me away and I am not mad about that. I can listen to this all day on repeat. Try listening to it too.

Photo source: SoundCloud

4. Last Summer Whisper by Anri

I bet Anri loves summer too much! Last Summer Whisper is a song from Anri’s 4th studio album, released in late 1982, Heaven Beach. The song will remind you of a classic romance anime movie with a beach scene. The song is so smooth and calming and I recommend you listen to it to also feel the retro vibe.