Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 50s: classic and popular Japanese hits
Every listener has their own memories and personal connections to musical works.
This time, we’ve put together a selection of “tear-jerker” songs that are likely to be especially memorable for women in their 50s.
The focus is on hit songs from the 1980s to the 1990s and the popular ballads of the time.
As you read this article, we hope it helps you recall your own “good old days,” and that just hearing a melody or a line of lyrics will instantly bring back the atmosphere of that nostalgic era—letting you feel the power of music.
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Tearjerker songs recommended for women in their 50s: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (61–70)
CAN YOU CELEBRATE?Amuro Namie
It was Namie Amuro’s ninth single under her solo name, released in February 1997.
Produced by Tetsuya Komuro—although it almost feels silly to spell that out, given how massive a hit this song was.
I remember it being used often as wedding BGM back then.
Amuro’s vocals really resonate with the heart; you could truly call it a timeless classic.
Including the choice of singer, Komuro’s production prowess and his sensibility as a melody-maker make you want to say, “As expected—brilliant!”
Goodbyeofukōsu
This was Off Course’s 17th single, released in December 1979.
It’s another classic ballad from the Showa-era New Music scene.
Kazumasa Oda’s wonderfully high, beautiful vocals, the arrangement that brings out their full charm, and the unforgettable lyrics—all of it comes together to create a world within the song that feels so real you can almost sense the cold air of the city just before winter arrives.
Now that I’m in my fifties, listening to it again, I feel like it resonates even more deeply.
Words of FarewellKaientai
A song by the folk group Kaientai, led by Tetsuya Takeda, who is also famous for the drama “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3B.” In addition to being used as the theme song for the aforementioned “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3B,” it is one of Kaientai’s signature songs and is often sung at graduation ceremonies.
Although it is widely perceived as a send-off song with beautiful Japanese—especially in its use of first- and second-person pronouns—it’s surprising to learn that Takeda actually wrote it as a breakup song after being rejected by a woman he had a crush on.
It might be fair to say that this number, open to many interpretations depending on the listener, stands as a representative piece of Japanese popular music.
Stars on EarthNakajima Miyuki
As a grand anthem casting light on an era without hope, the feelings Miyuki Nakajima delivered to people’s hearts continue to shine.
She wove together a message that resonates deeply, portraying the struggles of unsung heroes buried in everyday life through expressions likening them to stars and celestial bodies.
The powerful rock-infused sound and striking melodic line brilliantly convey a majestic worldview.
Released in July 2000, the song was chosen as the theme for NHK’s “Project X: Challengers,” and it was etched into the memories of many along with the program.
During the 2002 Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it was performed via a live broadcast from the Kurobe Dam, achieving the highest singer-specific rating of the program.
It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking energy for tomorrow or wishing to cheer on the efforts of those around them.
AloneMayo Okamoto
Mayo Okamoto’s third single delicately sings of the complex emotions of a woman whose boyfriend was taken by her friend.
Beneath her show of bravado lies profound loneliness and a heartrending longing for the one she loves—feelings that strike a deep chord.
Released in November 1996, it reached No.
10 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
It’s a gem of a ballad you’ll want to listen to quietly when you wish to reflect on the pain of heartbreak and the subtleties of human relationships.
In a new cityImai Miki
A signature song by Miki Imai, woven with warm words and a gentle melody that stays close during life’s turning points.
It’s a gem-like ballad that closes her August 1990 album “retour.” The calmly flowing melody and Imai’s clear, transparent vocals softly depict the resolve and hope needed to live in a new environment.
When facing major milestones such as moving or changing jobs, this piece will sit close to the listener’s heart and gently give them a push forward.
I’m only gazing at you.Daikoku Maki
This song poignantly portrays a woman’s bittersweet feelings as she changes herself for love.
Her determination and inner conflict to be reborn for her lover are depicted in contrast to the upbeat melody.
Maki Ohguro’s powerful vocals vividly express the protagonist’s pain and wavering emotions.
Released in December 1993, it was chosen as the ending theme for the anime SLAM DUNK.
Within about three months of its release, it became a million seller and has been included on multiple albums, such as “Toward the Eternal Dream” and “BACK BEATs #1.” It’s a song I especially recommend to those who can relate to the struggle between staying true to oneself and being in love.
Its heartrending melody and down-to-earth lyrics gently embrace the complex emotions of romance.