[For Seniors] Introducing recommended songs to give on Respect for the Aged Day

Circle of Thanksayaka

Ayaka / Circle of Thanks – 15th Anniversary (Room Session)

A gentle yet powerful vocal performance by Ayaka that sinks into the heart, this ballad is filled with gratitude to mothers.

In the first verse, warm vocals weave a portrait of a mother who has continued to protect her family in everyday life.

Released in October 2013, the song was featured as the campaign track for the 40th anniversary of Nestlé KitKat’s launch in Japan and as the CM song for Choya Umeshu’s “Choya Natsuumé.” It is included on the album Rainbow Road.

Humming along with seniors and their families will naturally bring back fond memories.

It’s a song to listen to with heartfelt appreciation on Mother’s Day gatherings or whenever you want to express thanks to your family.

The Apple SongNamiki Michiko

Apple Song - Michiko Namiki - Showa-era song

Said to be the first hit song in postwar Japan, it was released as the theme song for Soyokaze, the first postwar film.

In the movie, the cast members take turns singing it, but the version sung by the lead actress, Michiko Namiki, is probably the most well-known.

The lyrics address an apple as if speaking to it, giving the song a cute, charming feel.

As a piece that symbolizes postwar reconstruction, it has been used as an insert song in various documentary films and is, I believe, a song etched into Japan’s history.

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Hey, Nakamura-kun!Wakahara Ichirō

Ichiro Wakahara - Hey, Nakamura-kun (with lyrics)

Ichiro Wakahara’s “Hey, Nakamura-kun,” full of Showa-era color, is a classic that still captures many hearts today.

Its intro evokes a certain nostalgia and is sure to delight older listeners.

Depicting the life and friendships of office workers, it reminds us of the importance of bonds with our companions.

Released in 1958, the song was also featured on NHK’s Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

It’s great for singing together with seniors, and it can also serve as a conversation starter through quizzes.

It’s a wonderful song that brings fun moments and smiles.

The boatman is dear.Otomaru

Beloved boatman — a popular song, a nostalgic tune

“Sendō Kawaiya” is known as one of Otomaru’s signature songs.

The lyrics depict a seaside scene and a faint budding romance, making it a song that resonates with older listeners.

Released in 1935, it became a major hit at the time and firmly established Otomaru’s popularity.

It was also featured in the 2020 NHK morning drama series ‘Yell,’ bringing it back into the spotlight.

It’s a great choice to sing together at senior gatherings.

Its gentle melody can spark conversations about fond memories.

It’s a lovely song that soothes the hearts of older adults and helps everyone enjoy a pleasant time.

Ginza Kan-kan GirlTakatamine Hideko

Hideko Takamine “Ginza Kankan Musume”

Ginza Kankan Musume is a single by Hideko Takamine released in April 1949.

Set in postwar Ginza, its lyrics impressively portray a woman living with strength.

Famous as a movie theme song, the track was a massive hit at the time, selling over 500,000 copies.

Many older adults may find it nostalgic, recalling memories of their youth.

Because the lyrics include the trademarked name “Calpis,” some care may be needed for broadcasts, but it’s an excellent choice for Respect-for-the-Aged events.

Singing it while doing simple exercises is also recommended—it helps invigorate body and mind and makes for an enjoyable time.

Over the hillFujiyama Ichirō

Over the hill

Over the Hills is a song renowned for Ichiro Fujiyama’s beautiful singing voice.

Under clear skies, its lyrics celebrating hope-filled youth resonate deeply.

Released in 1931 as the theme song for the film Ane (Older Sister), it became a massive hit, selling over 500,000 copies.

It has continued to be loved ever since, even being used again as the theme song for a film of the same title in 2008.

For many older listeners, it may be a song that brings back fond memories and gives them the courage to look ahead.

Sing it together, and it will surely warm your hearts.

With its relaxed tempo, it can be enjoyed even while seated.

Second-son crowShirane Kazuo

Second Son Crow milkye326 (Original: Kazuo Shirane)

Kazuo Shirane’s “Jinanbō Karasu” is a classic that became a big hit in 1955.

The lyrics portray the protagonist’s heartrending feelings of love.

Beginning with the question “Where are you flying to?” and continuing with “Love is painful,” the words convey the protagonist’s inner struggle.

It’s also famous as the theme song for the film “Jinanbō Karasu,” starring Raizo Ichikawa, and it marked a turning point in Shirane’s career.

For many seniors, it may be a song that brings back fond memories.

Shirane’s emotionally rich singing warms the heart.

If performed at a Respect-for-the-Aged Day gathering, it would surely unite the audience and lift the mood.