A lovely family song

[Thank You] A song for grandpa and grandma: a classic that makes you want to express your gratitude

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSICsasashina
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. I’m Sasashina, a mom currently raising an elementary schooler and a preschooler. During my student years at Kyoto College of Science and Technology, I studied a wide range of fields including sound, lighting, and video technology, building a foundation in comprehensive stage production and creative expression. After graduation, I joined a music production company, where I still work, consistently building experience in production and engaging in a variety of music-centered tasks. Currently, I mainly handle articles for children, drawing on what I’ve learned about parenting and what I feel and discover through daily interactions with my kids. I hope my work can be of help to you, even in a small way!

We’d like to introduce “Songs for Grandpa and Grandma,” which capture feelings of gratitude and cherished memories for grandparents.

These are perfect for moments when you think of the two of them or for occasions like Respect for the Aged Day when you want to express your everyday appreciation.

From songs that feel like heartfelt letters of thanks, to humorous tracks that portray unique grandparents, to moving pieces dedicated to grandparents who have passed away—we’ve gathered a rich selection.

Even if they live far away and you can’t see them often, a grandchild is always someone special to them.

Just a phone call or a quick visit to show your face will surely make them happy.

Take this opportunity to share your feelings with them.

[Thank You] Songs for Grandpa and Grandma: Classic Tracks That Make You Want to Express Your Gratitude (71–80)

ranchu (a breed of Japanese goldfish)Eito

ranchu (a breed of Japanese goldfish)

ranchu (a breed of Japanese goldfish)Eito

Many of you probably have memories of visiting your grandparents’ house during summer vacation.

The piece I’d like to introduce is Ranchu.

It’s a solo acoustic song by the singer-songwriter Eito.

In the first half, he sings about memories of going to his grandparents’ home during summer break—eating watermelon and watching goldfish—while in the second half, he expresses a wish for them to see the person he has become as an adult.

It’s a song that feels a little bittersweet yet warmly comforting.

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Long Life OndoYonesuke

Long Life Ondo

Long Life OndoYonesuke

In April 2011, Toyohisa Araki released an arrangement of the lyrics to the folk song “We, Life Begins at 60,” which had long been sung in elderly care facilities to the melody of “Tetsudō Shōka.” This version by Yonesuke has a Hawaiian style, but there is also an enka version sung by Anna Rikitake.

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Song of a VultureKimura Kaera

(NHK Washimo OP: Piano) Washimo’s Song Kaela Kimura

Song of a VultureKimura Kaera

Washimo, who comes from an anime, is a computer granny with a PC for a face, and the concept is pretty amusing, isn’t it? Judging from the lyrics, the granny is a full-on robot, yet she plays the role of a real grandmother.

She’s quite heavy too—at 126 kg, that’s about the weight of three elderly people.

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Thank youikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

Thank youikimonogakari

A gemlike ballad that expresses the desire to convey heartfelt gratitude with a warm melody and lyrics that resonate deeply.

This heartwarming piece reaffirms the bonds and appreciation we feel for loved ones, and has been sung at many important moments in life.

Since its release in May 2010, it has captured the hearts of many viewers as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Gegege no Nyobo,” and is also included on the album “Ikimonobakari ~ Members BEST Selection ~.” It won the Excellent Work Award at the 52nd Japan Record Awards, and has been featured in high school music textbooks and adopted as a baseball march.

It’s a highly recommended song for occasions like weddings and graduation ceremonies, when you want to express your gratitude to someone special.

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Electric GrandmaZa Supaidāsu

Electric Grandma

Electric GrandmaZa Supaidāsu

Although it’s also a GS (Group Sounds) song from the 1970s, it appeared on Minna no Uta as well.

A lively grandmother traveled all the way from Hirosaki in Aomori Prefecture because she wanted to see her grandchild’s face.

She must have been so happy.

For an elementary schooler, reading “弘前” as a place name is difficult, but thanks to this song I learned that it’s pronounced “Hirosaki.”

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