Great songs recommended for people in their 80s: a collection of tracks with lyrics that touch the heart
When it comes to songs familiar to people in their 80s, wouldn’t it be the kayōkyoku and enka hits from the Showa era? Many songs from that time have been loved across generations, and there are countless timeless classics that still shine today.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide array of moving, heartfelt songs all at once—Showa masterpieces as well as school songs and children’s songs.
From songs about deep love to ones about family and hometown, these are sure to resonate with people in their 80s.
Please do recommend the songs we introduce to the 80-somethings around you.
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Good Songs Recommended for People in Their 80s: A Collection of Tracks with Touching, Heartfelt Lyrics (21–30)
school daysPegī Hayama
A song filled with youthful memories comes back to life in the voice of Peggy Hayama.
Released in 1964, this piece richly portrays student life at a mission school.
Prayers in the chapel, memories with friends, studying in the library, and fleeting first love—nostalgic scenes come vividly to mind.
It was performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1965 and went on to become a million-seller.
Beloved as a standard song for graduations and reunions, it may prompt older listeners to reflect on their own school days.
Why not hum along, together with your cherished memories?
Cotton HandkerchiefŌta Hiromi
Let me introduce a heartwarming song that brings back nostalgic memories.
It tells a poignant story of a long-distance romance between a man setting off from the countryside to the big city and a woman who stays in their hometown.
The lyrics alternate between the man’s and the woman’s perspectives—a groundbreaking technique for its time.
Released in 1975, it became a signature song for Hiromi Ohta, who made her first appearance at the 26th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen that same year.
The woman’s longing for an unchanging heart rather than material gifts is especially memorable.
How about humming along with older listeners and sharing stories of youthful days? You’re sure to have a wonderful time.
Great songs recommended for people in their 80s: a collection of tracks with moving, heartfelt lyrics (31–40)
Waltz of StarlightSen Masao
Known as a masterpiece that gently sings a heartrending love story, Masao Sen’s work was released in March 1966 and gradually drew significant attention.
The delicate lyrics by Sonoe Shiratori and the beautiful melody crafted by Minoru Endo harmonize wonderfully, making it a gem that resonates with the heart.
Set to a waltz rhythm, it tenderly depicts the protagonist’s complex feelings as they resolve to part with their beloved.
Spreading by word of mouth through cable broadcasting, it achieved an astonishing 2.5 million sales.
Its gentle, nostalgic melody invites humming along and remains a beloved classic that many people still enjoy singing together today.
a red handkerchiefIshihara Yūjirō
This is a narrative song that gently portrays the spring scenery of Japan’s northern country.
Against a backdrop of blooming acacia flowers, Yujiro Ishihara’s voice, depicting a bittersweet parting in love, leaves a deep, lingering resonance that touches the heart.
Released by Teichiku Records in October 1962, the work created a major buzz at the time.
In January 1964, it was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name starring Yujiro Ishihara, captivating many audiences alongside the movie.
Why not hum along and relive fond memories together? You’re sure to spend a lovely time as you recall days gone by.
Please enjoy a relaxing moment immersed in music under the gentle spring sunshine.
A Good Day to Set Out on a JourneyYamaguchi Momoe
This song, which sings of departure and hope, is a classic that resonates with many older listeners.
Momoe Yamaguchi’s gentle yet powerful voice gives listeners a push forward.
Released in November 1978, it was also used as a campaign song for Japan National Railways.
It is often performed at life’s milestones, such as graduation and weddings, and is loved across generations.
March brings the feeling of spring’s arrival.
In this season of new beginnings, why not listen to this song, bask in nostalgic memories, and feel hope for tomorrow?
Brother ShipsToba Ichirō
This is a masterpiece of enka that powerfully expresses the deep bond among fisherman brothers and their devotion to family.
Tetsurō Funamura’s grand melody blends with Tetsurō Hoshino’s moving lyrics, while Ichirō Toba’s rugged vocals bring out the work’s full appeal.
Because Ichirō Toba himself has real-life fishing experience, the pride and spirit of men of the sea come through vividly.
Released in August 1982, the song sold over 290,000 copies on the Oricon charts and won the Newcomer Award at the 16th All Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.
It has also been performed seven times on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, earning strong support from enka fans.
With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing and highly recommended for karaoke that stirs the heart.
I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi
A gem by Fuyumi Sakamoto that gently sings of a deepening bond with a loved one.
Also known as the CM song for Sanwa Shurui’s barley shochu iichiko, it conveys the newfound affection that can blossom between longtime spouses through a calm, soothing melody.
From everyday moments—the morning light, the breathing of someone sleeping by your side—the lyrics unfold tender feelings toward a cherished person, enhanced by a voice that pierces the heart.
Released in January 2009 as the coupling track to “Asia no Kaizoku,” it was included that October on the album “Love Songs ~ Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru ~,” garnering widespread media attention.
It’s a wonderful song to hum together as a couple or to sing with thoughts of someone dear.
A beautiful piece that lets you feel love growing deeper with time.