Easy-to-sing songs recommended for men in their 80s: Showa-era classics to perform at karaoke

Blue MountainsFujiyama Ichirō

[With Large Lyrics] Blue Mountain Range [Recreation]

The celebrated song, which beautifully depicts postwar hope and the breath of a new era, was performed by Ichirō Fujiyama and Mitsue Nara as the theme for a film of the same name released in 1949.

Along with the splendor of nature, it warmly portrays young people forging a bright future, like flowers that bloom after enduring a harsh winter.

For those who lived in the years immediately following the war, it is surely a piece filled with memories.

Beloved across generations, it was chosen as No.

1 in NHK’s 1989 program “Songs of the Showa Era: 200 Unforgettable Songs.” Its beautiful melody, infused with elements of classical music, and its heartwarming lyrics are sure to evoke fond recollections of days gone by.

YosakuKitajima Saburō

Yosaku

One of Saburo Kitajima’s signature songs.

Released in 1978, this piece warmly and simply portrays the everyday life of a man working in the mountains and his wife.

Its lyrics, rich with a message that honors the spirit of hard work and the bond between husband and wife, are beautifully matched by a folk-inspired, straightforward melody.

After being presented nationwide on NHK, it became beloved by people of all ages and enjoyed a long run as a hit.

With a relatively narrow vocal range and simple rhythm, it’s an easy song to sing.

It’s a timeless classic with universal themes that we hope not only older listeners but also younger generations will enjoy singing.

I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu

Sukiyaki

“Ue o Muite Arukou” (known internationally as “Sukiyaki”) is Kyu Sakamoto’s U.S.

number-one hit and Japan’s first global million-seller.

This classic, which inspires us to look ahead and keep trying, is surely a cherished song that many in their 80s have sung countless times at karaoke.

Its lyrics, which celebrate the strength to hold on to hope despite the changing seasons, and its melody that resonates deep in the heart, continue to encourage people today.

Above all, Kyu Sakamoto’s gentle, warm voice seems to embrace every listener.

At karaoke, why not sing it with passion as you reminisce about the past and weave in your own life story? It’s sure to fill you with energy for tomorrow!

Words of FarewellKaientai

Okuru Kotoba

Among the many classic songs by Kaientai, this track is renowned for its moving lyrics and melody.

Today, it’s cherished across generations as a quintessential graduation song, depicting bittersweet feelings and various facets of life.

Released as a single in April 1983, it became a massive hit when it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3-B,” starring Tetsuya Takeda.

Since then, it has been covered by many artists and firmly established itself as a graduation anthem.

It’s a song that evokes the Showa era and is one we’d especially love people in their 80s to sing.

It’s Tough Being a ManAtsumi Kiyoshi

It's Tough Being a Man

This song, which became one of Kiyoshi Atsumi’s signature works, is a number that gently embraces the hardships of a man’s life while giving him the courage to face forward and keep living.

Carried by his warm, personable voice, it portrays the life of a man who, though buffeted by the rough seas of the world, still strives to stick to his convictions.

Many men may have admired Tora-san, the protagonist of “It’s Tough Being a Man.” Even more than half a century after its 1969 release, the song remains beloved for its universal themes.

For those in their 80s in particular, it’s surely a memorable tune that colored their youth.

At karaoke, be sure to link arms with your friends and sing your hearts out about life!

North TavernHosokawa Takashi

North Tavern

One of Takashi Hosokawa’s signature songs, that classic was released in 1982.

Its lyrics tell a heartwarming story of an encounter set in a northern country tavern.

From the scene symbolizing the beginning of a romance between a man and a woman to the gradual closing of the distance between their hearts, it’s portrayed with care.

Coupled with a melody that seeps into the listener’s heart, it’s impossible not to be moved.

While the melody feels bright and poppy, the lyrical world carries the chic sensibility characteristic of enka.

Its relatively narrow vocal range also makes it easy to sing, which is part of its charm.

Why not experience a moment of hearts connecting on a cold night through this work?