Easy-to-sing songs recommended for women in their 80s: a reference for choosing karaoke tracks!

Across this wide fieldMoriyama Ryoko

Across this wide field

Set against a vast open field, this folk song celebrates hope, dreams, and free love.

Its clear vocals and breezy melody line are distinctive, giving listeners a sense of liberation and peacefulness.

Released in January 1967, the piece marked an important turning point in Ryoko Moriyama’s musical career.

It was broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta in April 1974 and quickly gained nationwide popularity.

The lyrics, which evoke harmony with nature, are filled with a warmth that soothes the heart.

It’s a song you can sing freely, so relax and enjoy it when you perform it at karaoke.

Happiness is here.ōtsu yoshiko

Koko Ni Kou Ari

“Koko ni Sachi Ari” is a classic song that portrays the strength of women facing life’s hardships and the happiness that awaits beyond them.

Set against a storm-like harsh reality, it vividly sings of the moments of joy they discover.

Since its release in 1956, it has been widely loved in Japan and abroad as a wedding standard, and it became an unprecedented hit as the theme song of a film of the same name.

It won a long-seller award in 1983, and in 1985 a monument to the song was erected in Nemuro City, Hokkaido.

Yoshiko Otsu’s dynamic vocals deftly express the subtleties of a woman’s heart.

Its powerful message—urging us to hold on to hope until life’s end—will resonate deeply with every listener.

Crimson Boat SongKitami Kyoko

Crimson Boat Song

“Crimson Boat Song” is one of Kyoko Kitami’s most famous enka numbers—an emotional piece that portrays a parting between lovers.

Set to the rhythm of a boat song, it vividly depicts the heartrending farewell of a man and woman aboard a vessel drifting down the Mogami River, brought to life by Kitami’s poignantly wistful vocals.

Especially striking is how delicately it expresses a woman’s complex feelings—she doesn’t want to part, yet can no longer stay together.

Anyone who has experienced a farewell with someone dear will likely empathize with the protagonist’s emotions.

By singing it with genuine feeling, even the painful memories of parting may transform into something beautiful.

Becoming a Thousand WindsAkiyama Masashi

Becoming a Thousand Winds

Masafumi Akikawa’s “Sen no Kaze ni Natte” is a masterpiece whose moving message of remembrance for the departed—and the idea that they continue to live on within nature—touches the heart.

Akikawa’s magnificent vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in May 2006, the song perfectly marries Man Arai’s lyrics with Akikawa’s voice.

It became a major hit following his stunning performance at the 57th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Carried by a gentle melody, his singing offers comfort and gentle healing to those who have lost someone dear.

It’s a piece that stirs new emotion each time you listen—or sing along.

Leaving sunny Tosa behindPegī Hayama

Leaving sunny Tosa behind

A masterpiece whose Peggy Hayama’s singing voice resonates in the heart.

It beautifully expresses the nostalgia of those who have left their hometown.

The lyrics overflow with love for the scenery and culture of Tosa, and are sure to strike a chord with everyone.

Released in May 1959, it became a huge hit, selling over one million copies in about a year.

It was also used in a film of the same name and gained even more popularity, with Peggy Hayama herself appearing in it.

If you sing it while recalling fond memories and dear people, you’ll feel the song’s charm even more deeply.

Its gentle tempo makes it easy to sing, so give it a try at karaoke.