[For Seniors] Songs to Hum Together on Mother’s Day: A Collection of Classics that Convey Gratitude

Song of the Yoito-makeMiwA Akihiro

Song of the Yoito-make

Akihiro Miwa’s “Yoitomake no Uta” is a song released in 1964 and issued as a single the following year.

It portrays the feelings of a protagonist who, inspired by the strength and courage drawn from watching their mother work, heads back to school.

The mother toiled as a day laborer on a yoitomake crew, working tirelessly for her family despite the hardships.

With gratitude for her efforts, the song traces the protagonist’s journey through high school and university to success as an engineer.

Although there was a period when it faced broadcasting restrictions at the time of its release, it is now beloved across generations.

Why not sing it as a tribute to your family, with gratitude, while reminiscing about your younger days?

Song of ParentsGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Parents' Song with Lyrics Video

This is a heartwarming piece filled with deep love and gratitude toward one’s parents.

Included on the album “Shio, Kosho,” released in June 2009, the song traces emotional changes from childhood memories through a rebellious phase to the point of growing up and coming to understand a parent’s feelings.

Its charming sound—distinctively GReeeeN—blends a pop melody with rap and leaves a strong impression.

This is a track you’ll want to listen to at life’s milestones or when you wish to reaffirm the parent-child bond.

It’s also easy to incorporate into recreational settings such as day-service programs, allowing you to enjoy reminiscing together with older adults.

Daphne (winter daphne)DISH//

DISH// – Sweet Daphne [Official Video]

This work features a melody filled with love and gratitude that resonates with the heart.

Released in November 2021 as the theme song for the drama “The Winner in February: The Classroom of Guaranteed Success,” it is characterized by a gentle melody that tenderly embraces feelings for family.

DISH//’s powerful performance and warm vocals beautifully portray the bond between parents and children.

Co-written by member Takumi Kitamura and Hattori from Macaroni Empitsu, the song’s lyrics softly accompany the listener, expressing everyday gratitude toward family.

With a march-like rhythm, it becomes a motivational anthem that lifts the spirit.

It’s a wonderful piece to listen to with older adults, allowing you to share memories and feelings of appreciation.

Shape of LoveMISIA feat.HIDE(GReeeeN)

MISIA – Shape of Love feat. HIDE (GReeeeN) (Official Music Video)

“Ai no Katachi feat.

HIDE (GReeeeN)” is the first collaboration between MISIA and HIDE from GReeeeN.

It carries a profound message about growing as a person through love, encounters, and bonds with others.

Older adults, too, have surely experienced much love throughout their lives.

Listening to this song may bring those memories back.

Released in August 2018, it was also used as the theme song for the drama “Gibo to Musume no Blues,” moving many people’s hearts.

MISIA’s gentle yet powerful voice conveys the meaning of the lyrics even more deeply.

I think it’s a perfect song to sing together on Mother’s Day at senior care facilities or day service centers.

Why not sing it with everyone and spend some time wrapped in a warm atmosphere?

GIFTMr.Children

Mr.Children 「GIFT」 MUSIC VIDEO

This piece begins with gentle piano tones, then unfolds into a melody that at times grows powerful and resonant—truly memorable.

Amid differing values and moments of doubt, it carries a kind message about treasuring the unique colors each person holds and recognizing one another with kindness.

Released by Mr.Children in July 2008, it warmed many hearts as an Olympic theme song.

Later, in 2012, it was featured in a Shiseido MAQuillAGE commercial, winning even broader affection.

It’s also recommended when you want to express gratitude to someone important or when your heart feels weary.

The vocals, which seem to gently embrace the brilliance everyone possesses, are sure to soothe you.

Letterback number

back number – Letter (full)

The thoughts and gratitude toward one’s parents, conveyed with a gentle singing voice, seep into the heart.

As we grow, we recognize their importance; the deep love that keeps watching over us is wrapped in a warm melody.

Included on back number’s fifth album, “Chandelier,” and released in August 2015 as an NTT Docomo commercial song, this piece paints the bond between parent and child through everyday, ordinary memories.

The heartfelt words woven by Iyori Shimizu and the grand arrangement produced by Takeshi Kobayashi are beautifully in harmony.

How about spending a moment humming along with an older loved one, reminiscing about memories with your mother? Along with nostalgic recollections, the feelings you want to express now will naturally well up.

To the futureKiroro

Kiroro “To the Future” Official Music Video

“Mirai e,” released on June 24, 1998, is based on a letter Ms.

Tamaki wrote to her mother.

It’s an uplifting song that gives courage to a protagonist standing at a crossroads in life to look ahead and start walking forward.

With its touching melody and relatable lyrics, it’s a truly compelling piece.

When older adults reflect on their lives, this song may give them a gentle push forward.

It’s a song we would especially love our respected seniors to sing.

If everyone sings it together at day service, it will surely inspire the courage to face forward.