[For Seniors] An intro quiz that will make you want to sing along. Let’s have fun with nostalgic classics!

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu

Look up at the stars in the night (Kyu Sakamoto)

This song, emblematic of the Showa era, is loved widely across generations.

It has supported the hearts of countless Japanese people and gently yet powerfully pushed many—young and old, men and women alike—forward.

It’s a masterpiece that represents the Showa era, and indeed Japan itself.

Why does his voice resonate so deeply in our hearts? Please try singing it together and savor the emotion.

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Murakami Shinpei

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applausechiaki naomi

Naomi Chiaki / Applause [Official Audio]

This song portrays a singer who performs with deep emotion.

While she presents a glamorous figure on stage, she carries within her the sorrow of losing someone precious.

The lyrics express both the joy of applause and a sense of loneliness, creating a deeply moving piece.

Released in September 1972, it became a hit for Naomi Chiaki and even won the Japan Record Award.

For many older listeners, it likely resonates with memories of their youth.

How about experiencing the emotions woven into the lyrics together?

EnchantedJudi Ongu

Judy Ongg – Mesmerized

Marked by an elegant melody reminiscent of the Aegean Sea, this work is known as one of Judy Ongg’s signature songs.

The lyrics portray a woman’s delicate emotions, beautifully expressing the conflicts and longings of love, and are sure to resonate with many listeners.

Released in 1979, it became a major sensation at the time, winning the Japan Record Award.

Her performance in a pure white dress was also captivating and, sparked by a television production, became a hallmark of the song.

For many older listeners, it may evoke fond memories of their youth.

It’s a recommended track for moments when you want to spend a warm, heartening time.

Playback Part 2Yamaguchi Momoe

Momoe Yamaguchi Playback Part 2

A signature song by Momoe Yamaguchi, a songstress who epitomized the Showa era, this gem vividly portrays the inner conflicts of women.

It brilliantly captures the feelings of a woman living freely and unreservedly.

Released in May 1978, the song is known for its distinctive staging.

It incorporates innovative touches for the time, such as scene changes that utilize moments of silence.

For many older listeners, it’s likely a tune that brings back fond memories.

How about listening to Momoe Yamaguchi’s delicate vocals and taking a moment to reflect on your youth?

Angel’s TemptationMayuzumi Jun

Jun Mayuzumi “Angel’s Temptation” 1968

When a nostalgic classic starts playing somewhere, you can’t help but hum along, can you? Jun Mayuzumi’s piece sings of the pain of heartbreak and a sense of emptiness.

The imagery is striking: happiness likened to orange clouds fades away, leaving only tears behind.

Released in May 1968, it won the Japan Record Award that same year.

It also became the theme song for a film of the same name, which helped cement Jun Mayuzumi’s status as an actress.

For many older listeners, it may be a song that overlaps with memories of their youth.

Why not savor the lyrics, which seep into the heart along with a sense of nostalgia?

Blue Light Yokohamaishida ayumi

Blue Light Yokohama

Speaking of Ayumi Ishida’s signature songs, it has to be this one, which portrays a sweet yet bittersweet scene of lovers against the backdrop of Yokohama’s nightscape.

Released on December 25, 1968 as her 26th single, it became a massive hit, selling over 1.5 million copies.

It topped the Oricon weekly chart and ranked third on the 1969 year-end chart.

With this song, Ayumi Ishida made her first appearance at the 20th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It’s also beloved as a local song of Yokohama and is even used as the train approach melody at Keikyū Main Line’s Yokohama Station.

How about humming it together with older folks?

Yearning for the ShadowFujiyama Ichirō

Yearning for a Shadow – kayōkyoku (Japanese popular song), nostalgic songs

Ichiro Fujiyama’s “Kage o Shitaite” is a song that feels somehow nostalgic and touches the heartstrings.

Set to beautiful guitar tones, its lyrics sing of deep affection and aching longing, resonating with many listeners.

In particular, its fleeting quality and richly emotional melody seem to awaken distant memories for older generations.

Together with Fujiyama’s warm voice, please enjoy the poetic world that gently melts into the heart.