Tear-jerking songs for men in their 80s: a collection of timeless masterpieces that touch the heartstrings
For men in their 80s, many are deeply familiar with Showa-era pop and enka.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of moving classics from the Showa period that are sure to resonate with men in their 80s.
From heartrending romances and mutual, pure love to family bonds and farewells with loved ones, we’ve chosen songs that each carry their own story.
We hope this will be helpful for those in their 80s reading this, or for anyone who wants to gift a wonderful song to someone dear in their 80s.
Be sure to read the lyrics of each song and feel the emotions woven into them.
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Tearjerker songs for men in their 80s: A collection of timeless tracks that touch the heart (11–20)
Kanda Riverkaguya hime
Among the many famous songs created by Kaguyahime, this is one of the most well-known signature tracks.
Released in September 1973, it became a huge hit, selling 1.6 million copies.
With lyrics by Tadashi Kitajō and music by Kosetsu Minami, it beautifully portrays the romance and emotions of young people at the time.
The lyrics delicately depict days full of happiness despite poverty, as well as the poignancy of parting—continuing to move many listeners even today.
It is a timeless classic that those who feel nostalgic for the Showa era should definitely listen to.
Farewell, my loverSakai Masaaki
“Saraba Koibito” is a classic that poignantly sings of the sorrow of parting with a lover.
Repeating “it was my fault,” the protagonist’s regret at not recognizing the happiness they had resonates deeply.
Released in May 1971 as Masakazu Sakai’s solo debut single, the song has since been covered by many artists and remains beloved across generations.
It’s a track I particularly recommend to those who have experienced a breakup or who want to cherish the everyday moments with someone important.
Sakai’s tender yet powerful vocals will surely seep into your heart.
HeadlightNiinuma Kenji
Kenji Niinuma’s signature song, “Headlight,” is a classic from 1977 that portrays the feelings of a man and woman leaving the city and heading north.
Niinuma’s powerful vocal performance enhances the emotion of the lyrics, which liken a headlight illuminating the darkness.
Since its release, the song has been included on various albums and has remained a staple in live performances.
It conveys a sincere, straightforward desire to escape painful memories of the past and start a new life with a loved one.
MoonlightKuwana Masahiro
Masahiro Kuwana’s “Tsuki no Akari,” released in 1978, is a quintessential masterpiece of Japanese rock-kayō.
His soulful vocals and poetic lyrics, which tenderly convey the pain of heartbreak and parting, are sure to resonate with listeners in their 80s.
It’s a classic ballad you’ll want to hear during long-distance breakup scenes or farewells with someone dear.
Illuminated by moonlight and holding thoughts of a loved one close, it’s the perfect song for taking a new step forward.
rapeseed blossomsYubara Masayuki
Masayuki Yuhara’s song is a moving piece distinguished by its warm lyrics depicting a male protagonist and his elderly mother.
Even as his mother forgets her family and even herself, he continues to give her unwavering love and spends time by her side—an image that is sure to touch your heart.
Those who have cared for their own mothers, of course, and even those who have not, will feel anew the strength and beauty of the parent–child bond when they listen to this track.
TSUNAMISazan Ōrusutāzu
An emotionally moving love ballad that likens the pain of heartbreak to a tsunami, this song captivates with Keisuke Kuwata’s deep vocals and a warmly poetic world.
It begins quietly, then swells like waves of emotion with a beautiful, memorable melody that conveys both the strength and the fragility of love.
Released in January 2000, it was also used as the theme song for the ‘Future Diary III’ segment of the TV show ‘Uunnan no Hontoko!’ and reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart.
It won the Grand Prize at the 42nd Japan Record Awards, becoming a definitive song of the year 2000 in both name and substance.
It is a gem that resonates deep in the heart when you want to immerse yourself in memories of a loved one or reflect on life.
Words of FarewellKaientai
It’s a beloved song with a gentle melody that accompanies moments of departure and farewell, carrying a warm message.
It carefully speaks to life lessons such as “loving someone deeply,” “accepting sorrow through tears,” and “trusting others and moving forward.” The lyrics were written by Kaientai’s leader, Tetsuya Takeda, based on a heartbreak he experienced in college, and the many words that strike the heart are especially compelling.
Released as a single in November 1979, it was chosen as the theme song for the first season of the TBS drama Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3B, starring Tetsuya Takeda.
For older adults who have experienced the loss of a family member, it is sure to be a song that resonates deeply.
By reminiscing together or keeping time with handclaps to the melody, everyone can share a peaceful moment.
Sanguisorba officinalis (Great burnet)sugimoto masato
Masato Sugimoto, known for his gentle and warm singing voice, created a heartwarming piece imbued with deep love for his late mother.
Released by Teichiku Entertainment in February 2007, this work marked a major turning point in his career as a singer.
Alongside a melody full of tenderness, it carefully weaves themes of life’s fragility and feelings for one’s family, resonating with many listeners.
Used as an insert song on TV Tokyo’s music program “Yoko’s Enka Straight Line,” it also earned him a spot in that year’s NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
With its warm vocals and lyrics that touch the heart, this is a song you’ll want to sing slowly at karaoke as you look back on memories with your family and friends.
I love youOzaki Yutaka
This is a masterpiece that resonates in many hearts as a pinnacle of bittersweet love songs.
Included on the debut album “Seventeen’s Map” and released as a single in 1991, it poignantly sings of a forbidden love between a young man and woman.
The piano ballad that Yutaka Ozaki crafted at the age of seventeen continues to captivate listeners.
Numerous artists, including Hikaru Utada and Koji Tamaki, have covered the song, and it has been featured as the image song for the film “Hot Road” as well as in JR Tokai’s “Fight! Express” commercials.
It’s a perfect track for spending a quiet moment immersed in music and reminiscing.
How about a heartwarming karaoke time accompanied by its gentle melody?
Becoming a Thousand WindsAkiyama Masashi
As a masterpiece of beautiful Japanese ballads, Masafumi Akikawa’s singing voice has left a deep impression on many hearts.
With the powerful, soaring tone characteristic of a tenor, this gem of a song gently conveys the preciousness of life and feelings for loved ones.
Released in May 2006, it became an extraordinary hit for a classical singer, creating a major buzz that included Akikawa serving as the closing performer for the White Team at the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen the following year.
In 2007, it was also selected as the theme song for a Fuji TV documentary drama.
Singing about the feelings one has for someone dear, this work continues to be cherished across generations as a song that resonates in many moments of life.