Beautiful tear-jerking songs / songs that make you cry your eyes out

Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 50s: classic and popular Japanese hits

Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!
Music producer, composer, vocal coach, keyboard playerKei Takahata
From around 1995 to 2000, he built experience as a composer and producer at a major label, then moved to the United States. In Los Angeles, he studied vocalization and singing under top voice trainer Elizabeth Sabine, mastering the so-called Hollywood vocal method she advocated. After returning to Japan, he trained and produced a variety of singers, earning high praise for his direction that maximized the appeal of both the songs and the vocalists. In a collaboration video with Guild’s vocalist ryuichi, he handled keyboard performance, vocal direction, and sound production. (Passed away in 2025)

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.

Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 50s: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (71–80)

I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi

Fuyumi Sakamoto – I'm Falling in Love with You Again

I'm falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi

A gem of a love song by Fuyumi Sakamoto that gently portrays a rekindled romance blossoming between a long-married couple.

The serene melody and her emotive vocals weave a harmony that deeply resonates with listeners.

With warm, tender strokes, it depicts the precious affection found in everyday moments and gratitude for the many years overcome together.

Released in January 2009 as the coupling track to “Pirates of Asia,” the song also became beloved as the theme for Sanwa Shurui’s Mugi Shochu iichiko commercial.

It is included on the album “Love Songs ~ Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru ~,” and has earned support from a wide range of generations.

A recommended track for anyone wishing to rediscover the value of time spent with someone dear.

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stationTakeuchi Mariya

Mariya Takeuchi – Station [Live Version / 2000 @ Nippon Budokan]

stationTakeuchi Mariya

A song by Mariya Takeuchi that tells a poignant story of unexpectedly reuniting with a former lover at a station at dusk.

The pain and nostalgia of a past romance seep into the heart, carried by her clear, translucent voice.

Originally written in 1986 as the theme song for the film “Goodbye Mama” and provided to Akina Nakamori, it was self-covered by Mariya Takeuchi the following year.

Rearranged by her husband Tatsuro Yamashita, the piece blossomed into an elegant sound centered on piano and strings.

Its universal narrative, themed around the breakup and reunion that many experience in love, gently stirs the listener’s memories.

It is a gem of a song best enjoyed in the quiet mood of twilight, as you reflect on cherished memories with someone dear.

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My Dear EllieSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Itoshi no Ellie [Live at Southern All Stars Kickoff Live 2018 “A Slightly Naughty La-La Old Man”, 2018]

My Dear EllieSazan Ōrusutāzu

It was Southern All Stars’ third single, released in March 1979.

Although Southern later released many hit ballads, this was apparently their first ballad single.

It’s truly a definitive Showa-era ballad classic.

If you’re in your 50s, chances are you’ve heard it at least once.

Beyond the lyrics and melody, I feel that Kuwata’s somewhat simple, rough-hewn vocals further heighten the song’s bittersweet atmosphere.

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Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 50s: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (81–90)

A Smile in Returnkyandīzu

Smile Back: Candies Memories

A Smile in Returnkyandīzu

This was the final single by Candies, a popular idol group from the Showa era, released on February 25, 1978.

As of March 2022, many people in their 50s may remember singing and dancing to this song at school parties in elementary or junior high.

Some of you might even have attended their farewell concert at Korakuen Stadium! As their last single, the song feels particularly special: its lyrics reference titles of their past hit singles, and the choreography also incorporates moves from those songs throughout.

Please enjoy it along with your memories of those nostalgic times.

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In conclusion

This time we introduced “tear-jerking songs” recommended for women in their 50s—did you find any favorites? Given the theme, the list naturally leaned toward older hits, but even if you didn’t listen to them back then, many of these songs may still resonate deeply.

In addition to the songs featured here, Rug Music offers special features tailored to various eras and themes.

Be sure to check those out as well!