Great songs recommended for people in their 80s: a collection of tracks with lyrics that touch the heart

Yearning for the ShadowFujiyama Ichirō

In Longing for the Shadow (Postwar Ver.)

The classic “Kage o Shitaite” by Ichirō Fujiyama.

Born from Masao Koga’s deep anguish and wistful longing, this song sets the figure of a protagonist harboring inexpressible sorrow to a beautiful melody.

Fujiyama’s clear diction and dignified vocals shine, making it impossible not to be moved.

As you let your thoughts wander to the Shōwa era, please listen quietly and take it in.

Since its release in 1932, it has remained beloved for many years.

It is a song I especially hope those with rich life experience will savor—both to reminisce about the past and to appreciate its depth.

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu

Miagete Goran Yoru No Hoshi Wo

Carried by Kyu Sakamoto’s vocals, “Look Up at the Night Stars” is a timeless classic that continues to be loved across generations.

It sings of the wonder of gazing up at the night sky and its shining stars, conveying a message of hope and comfort.

The song symbolizes the importance of joining hands and pursuing our dreams together, even amid life’s hardships and challenges.

Released in 1963, it won the Composition Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards.

The musical of the same name, first performed in 1960, depicts the efforts and hopes of young people living through the era of mass rural-to-urban employment.

It’s the perfect song for people in their 80s to savor modest happiness while reminiscing about the Showa era.

Shiretoko Ryojo (Shiretoko Travel Sentiment)Katō Tokiko

Shiretoko Ryojo (Shiretoko Love) Tokiko Kato 55th Anniversary

Celebrated as one of Tokiko Kato’s signature songs, this work sings of Hokkaido’s beautiful nature and a bittersweet love.

With rich scenic imagery—such as the rugosa roses blooming on the Shiretoko Cape and Kunashiri Island visible in the distance—it vividly conjures landscapes in the listener’s mind.

The song conveys the sorrow of parting with a lover and a wish not to be forgotten, and for older listeners, it may evoke memories of their youth.

Upon its release in November 1970, it became an instant smash hit, topping the Oricon chart for seven consecutive weeks.

It was also performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, becoming beloved nationwide.

It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to when looking back on nostalgic scenery and cherished memories with someone dear.

March of 365 StepsSuizenji Kiyoko

Kiyoko Suizenji - “365-Step March” (Official Audio)

Beloved as a classic from the Showa era, this song is a rousing anthem that celebrates facing life with brightness and positivity.

Kiyoko Suizenji’s powerful vocals and the lively tempo are sure to lift your spirits.

Released in November 1968, it quickly became a massive hit.

The following year, it was widely embraced, being selected for the Kohaku Uta Gassen and as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

The lyrics convey a life lesson: that the accumulation of small, daily steps leads to great achievements.

It might be nice to hum along with older listeners and reminisce about youthful days.

Singing together will surely create a wonderful time filled with smiles.

I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu

Sukiyaki

Kyu Sakamoto’s signature song remains a beloved Showa-era hit even today.

With its uplifting message and warm vocals, it’s a tune that resonates with older adults.

Released in 1961, it achieved great success not only in Japan but also overseas.

It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became Japan’s first worldwide million-seller.

Humming along with older adults may bring back fond memories.

It’s also fun to create simple choreography that matches the lyrics and move your body within a comfortable range.

Why not raise your voices together and enjoy a pleasant moment through song?

grandchildŌizumi Itsurō

Itsuro Oizumi / Mago (Grandchild)

A signature song by Itsuro Oizumi that gently portrays the bond with a grandchild.

Released in 1999, this piece weaves warm words to express deep love for a grandchild and hopes for their growth.

The lyrics tenderly sing of a grandson’s smile resembling his grandpa’s, and of small hands grasping happiness.

The song received the Excellence Work Award at the 42nd Japan Record Awards.

It has both a boy’s version and a girl’s version; the girl’s version is included on the 2000 album “Mago: Itsuro Oizumi Furusato/Iwai Uta.” It’s a must-listen for anyone who cherishes the bond with their grandchildren.

applausechiaki naomi

Naomi Chiaki / Applause [Official Audio]

With lyrics that resonate deeply and an emotionally rich vocal performance, this is one of the quintessential masterpieces of the Showa era.

Released in 1972, it became Naomi Chiaki’s signature song and won the Japan Record Award the same year.

The lyrics are striking for their contrast between the radiant figure of a singer on stage and the sorrow hidden deep within her heart.

The interweaving of the joy of receiving applause with thoughts of a lost loved one is truly moving.

Naomi Chiaki’s clear, translucent voice further enhances the song’s evocative world.

It’s a highly recommended piece when you want to reflect on someone dear to you or feel the joys and sorrows of life.