Songs to give for an 88th-birthday celebration (Beiju). Heartwarming classics and popular tunes.

Ode to LifeMori Shigeru Hisaya

Hisaya Morishige · Morishige’s Hymn to Life — Vocal Performance 🎤 70th Birthday Cover

This is the theme song from Shichinin no Mago, a drama in TBS’s National Gekijō slot that aired from 1964 to 1965.

Hisaya Morishige handled both vocals and lyrics.

It’s a rousing number that celebrates the joys of life, making it perfect for a beiju (88th birthday) celebration.

Because the moon is so very blueSugawara Totoko

Sugawara Toto-ko, “Because the Moon Is So Very Blue”

As a beloved classic from the Showa era, this song has resonated in the hearts of many through the voice of Totoko Sugawara.

Released in 1955, it became a huge hit, selling over one million copies—an extraordinary figure for a market then only a thirtieth the size of today’s.

In December of the same year, a film of the same title produced by Nikkatsu was released, and the song has since been covered by many artists, remaining a Japanese standard passed down through generations.

Its lyrics poignantly convey the wistfulness and beauty felt under a blue moonlit night, depicted through a pair taking the long way home.

It’s a perfect piece to listen to while celebrating an 88th birthday, reflecting on memories with family and loved ones.

I’m counting on you.Kasaogi Shizuko

I’m counting on you — Shizuko Kasagi

Ms.

Shizuko Kasagi, the legendary singer who kept scattering the treasure of “songs” across Japan before and after the war.

She broke away from the prevailing norm of singing stock-still, unveiling her numbers with dynamic, spirited choreography.

The effort she put in—and the backlash she faced—may well be beyond what we can imagine.

Her hit song “Tayori ni Shite Masse” is a fun track that blends in Kansai dialect.

When you hear the lyrics, which feel like a pep talk—“I trusted you and followed you, so please, get it together!”—you can’t help but think that even at 88, it’s hardly time to grow old.

A perfect pick to liven up a celebration party!

Blue MountainsFujiyama Ichirō

Blue Mountains (1949)

This song was released in 1949 as the theme for the film “Blue Mountain Range.” The lyrics were written by the renowned poet Saijō Yaso.

Ranked first in NHK’s 1989 television program “Songs of the Showa Era: 200 That Remain in Our Hearts,” it has been passed down as a classic youth kayō (popular song).

It’s recommended for those who want to celebrate with a song cherished by grandparents who are turning 88.

Ah, there are tears in life.Satomi Kôtarô, Yokouchi Masashi

Kotaro Satomi & Tadashi Yokouchi: 'Ah, Tears in Life'

Known as a timeless classic loved across generations, this song vividly portrays the joys and hardships of life.

First recorded in 1973 and reissued many times since, it has left a deep impression on countless listeners.

The powerful vocals of Kotaro Satomi and Tadashi Yokouchi inspire the courage to face life’s difficulties.

It is also famous as the theme song of the TV drama “Mito Komon,” and is cherished across generations.

Why not warm your heart by listening to this song during precious moments with family and friends? It will surely help you rediscover the wonders of life.

March of 365 StepsSuizenji Kiyoko

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

A song that continues to be loved even in the Reiwa era as a classic of Showa-era pop is this work, which can be called Kiyoko Suizenji’s signature number.

Released in November 1968, it features energetic, forward-looking lyrics that seem to symbolize Japan’s period of rapid economic growth.

In fact, although Suizenji was already popular as an enka singer, she reportedly had mixed feelings about singing this song, which was a different style for her.

Nevertheless, it went on to become a million-seller and was widely embraced, being selected the following year for NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

With lyrics that encourage a positive, forward-moving approach to life, it’s an ideal song to dedicate as a heartfelt congratulatory message to those celebrating their 88th year.

Thank you, night fog, again tonight.Ishihara Yūjirō

Yujiro Ishihara – Thank You, Night Fog, Again Tonight (1967)

This is one of Yujiro Ishihara’s signature songs, perfect for singing to celebrate grandpas and grandmas who are fans of him.

It’s a relaxed, moody, and gentle medium-tempo ballad, and if you change the chorus to include the name of the person you’re celebrating, they’ll likely love it.