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Lovely senior life

[For Seniors] Crowd-Pleasers! A Collection of Classic Karaoke Songs

Karaoke is one of the most popular recreational activities at senior facilities such as day service centers.

Many people probably enjoy karaoke as a hobby, too.

In this article, we’ll introduce lively karaoke songs recommended for older adults!

We’ve gathered classic enka and kayōkyoku favorites, as well as songs loved across generations.

We hope you’ll find a favorite among the many selections.

Even if you don’t know the lyrics, it’s also great to simply listen and enjoy tunes whose melodies you like.

Sing the songs you love and have fun doing karaoke together!

[For Seniors] Crowd-Pleasing! Classic Karaoke Song Collection (21–30)

Song of LifeTakeuchi Mariya

Song of Life – Mariya Takeuchi
Song of LifeTakeuchi Mariya

The song “Inochi no Uta,” which became well-known as an insert song in the 2008 NHK morning drama Dan Dan, was sung by Mana Mikura and Kana Mikura.

Although it was initially kept under wraps, the lyrics were actually written by Mariya Takeuchi under the pen name Miyabi.

She later released her own self-cover.

This moving masterpiece is also widely loved as a choral piece.

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

As a Japanese singer, singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya has been active for many years since the 1970s.

Affectionately known as “Yuming,” she captivates listeners with a uniquely distinctive voice that you can recognize the moment you hear it.

Many have been enchanted by her expressive singing, which makes full use of that voice.

This song is one of her signature tracks—a classic that portrays the feeling of longing for spring.

The tempo is on the slower side, and the rhythm of the vocals is relaxed.

Another reason to recommend it is its extremely high level of recognition!

[For Seniors] Crowd-Pleasers! Classic Karaoke Song Collection (31–40)

Goodbye, TearsSakamoto Kyu

Goodbye, Tears — Kyu Sakamoto
Goodbye, TearsSakamoto Kyu

Kyu Sakamoto’s classic is known for its bright melody and heartwarming lyrics.

Released in May 1965, it was later used as the theme song for the drama “Reaching for the Heavens.” The song portrays a young man’s feelings as he overcomes the sorrow of parting and finds hope in a new love.

It’s a tune that many older listeners will also find familiar.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing and perfect for enjoying at karaoke.

It’s a song that brings back fond memories while uplifting your spirits.

Singing it together is sure to give everyone energy.

Blues of the DawnItsuki Hiroshi

"Dawn Blues" Hiroshi Itsuki [Official PV]
Blues of the DawnItsuki Hiroshi

Yoake no Blues is a song by Hiroshi Itsuki released in 2012.

It won the Composer’s Award at the 54th Japan Record Awards.

The theme of the song is a romance set in Nibancho, the downtown entertainment district of Matsuyama City in Ehime Prefecture.

It has such a catchy melody that you can remember it after listening a few times.

Its moody vibe also makes it seem easy to sing at karaoke!

wintering swallowMori Masako

Masako Mori - Wintering Swallow (1984)
wintering swallowMori Masako

This is one of Masako Mori’s signature songs, released in 1983.

It won the Best Vocal Performance award at the 25th Japan Record Awards.

She also performed it twice on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

The surprising fact is that it was composed by Hiroshi En, whose real name is Yoshihiko Shinohara.

It’s a very popular karaoke number.

Although it seems difficult to sing, the melody is actually quite easy, so it can make you sound more skilled than you might think.

The Highland Train GoesOkamoto Atsurō

The Highland Train Is Coming (1954) — Vocals: Atsurō Okamoto — Japan Kayō (Popular Song) Channel
The Highland Train GoesOkamoto Atsurō

Released in 1954, this song is one of Atsuro Okamoto’s signature hits.

Its cheerful, uplifting melody might make even older listeners feel like moving along.

With lyrics depicting a trip on a highland train and such a lively tune, it could inspire seniors who don’t often go out to feel like taking a little excursion.

The easy-to-sing melody and lyrics are sure to be enjoyable even while you’re out and about!

Ladybug Sambacherisshu

The Japanese folk duo Cherish is centered around the married couple Yoshitaka Matsuzaki and Etsuko Matsuzaki from Aichi Prefecture.

Even people who don’t know much about them may have heard the song Tentedōmushi no Samba (Ladybug Samba).

With its catchy, easy-to-remember melody that has been sung across generations, it’s perfect for karaoke.

On a clear day after the rain, if you spot a ladybug, you might just find yourself humming this tune.