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

You’re the Only..Ono Masatoshi

Masatoshi Ono “You’re the Only…” Record Audio

In the 2020s, when people mention Masatoshi Ono, many younger fans may recognize him from TV shows where he showcases his powerful high tones through impersonations, or as the vocalist of the heavy metal band GALNERYUS.

For those who know Ono from his debut in the 1990s—sporting distinctive long, permed hair and a headband—the massive hit “You’re the Only…” likely comes to mind first.

Released in August 1992 as his third single, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Kimi no Tame ni Dekiru Koto” and became a million seller.

Featuring romantic lyrics befitting the heyday of trendy dramas and a melody sung in ultra-high tones—drawing on his background in hard rock and metal bands—the song is refined and beautiful.

If you can pull it off at karaoke, it’s sure to bring the house down with applause!

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KOH-1

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You’re My Only Shinin’ StarKadamatsu Toshiki

Toshiki Kadomatsu - You're My Only Shinin' Star (30th Anniversary Live)

This is a ballad that singer-songwriter Toshiki Kadomatsu provided to Miho Nakayama when she was an idol.

Nakayama’s version was also used as an insert song in the drama she starred in, “Mama wa Idol.” It’s not hard to imagine that Nakayama’s version likely sold more copies, but this time I’d like to introduce Kadomatsu’s own self-cover version.

It’s a very beautiful ballad about feelings for a loved one.

It might not be a bad idea to listen to it on a long autumn night while reminiscing about youthful romance.

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Kei Takahata

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Smiling Backkyandīzu

Smile Back: Candies Memories

Released on February 25, 1978, this was the final single from Candies, a hugely popular idol group of the Showa era.

The lyrics are sprinkled with titles of their past hits, so for people in their 50s today, it’s a song you can enjoy alongside your own memories.

I imagine many of you even attended their farewell concert at Korakuen Stadium.

Although Candies were extremely popular at the time, it’s surprisingly the first and only song of theirs to hit No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

Listening again now, the trio’s harmonies are beautifully crafted.

Please enjoy it with a sense of nostalgia—and perhaps some new discoveries, too!

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Kei Takahata

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Let’s become a familyFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Let’s Become a Family (Full ver.)

A gemlike ballad that gently portrays the beauty of walking through life with the one you love.

The warm poetic world woven by Masaharu Fukuyama offers deep insights into marriage and the bonds of family.

Unchanging love across the years, the quiet happiness of everyday life, and hopes for the future—these elements blend beautifully in this heartwarming song.

Released in August 2011, it was featured as the theme song for the wedding magazine Zexy’s TV commercial and reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was certified Million by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

A heartwarming track that lets you feel the ties of family.

SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Sakurazaka (Full ver.)

Masaharu Fukuyama is undoubtedly one of Japan’s most iconic figures, both as a singer-songwriter and as an actor.

It’s truly remarkable that he has continued to release hit songs from the 1990s through the Reiwa era.

While each generation likely has its own “Fukuyama songs,” Sakura-zaka, released in 2000, is a quintessential Heisei-era classic that achieved a record-breaking double million in sales.

Some may find ballads challenging, but the simply crafted melody line makes it easy to sing, and the relatively low key makes it approachable for those with lower voices.

If you carefully follow the scale, you can definitely aim for a high karaoke score; at the same time, the song’s charm lies in its lower register, so if you’re not confident with low melodies, this is a great piece to practice with.

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You’re no longer here.FUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS "You’re Not Here Anymore"

This is a gem of a ballad that sings of the sweet, aching pain of heartbreak.

The farewell scene on the station platform and the memories the two shared are delicately portrayed and delivered with a melody that pierces the heart.

Among FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ works, it stands out for its rich emotional expression.

Released in October 2007, it reached No.

8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was selected as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Otona no Shikaku,” earning broad support across generations.

The song is also included on the album “FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 2,” and has been covered by Mariko Takahashi.

It’s a heartwarming track that stays by your side when you sense the end of a romance or go through a farewell with someone dear.

Goodbyeofukōsu

Sayonara

This is a pure love ballad that poignantly portrays the end of a romance, released as an Off Course single in December 1979.

With Kazumasa Oda’s warm yet translucent vocals and a heart-stirring melody, the song richly conveys the sorrow of parting.

Its gentle, relatable lyrics—about a first heartbreak or a bittersweet farewell to someone dear—have made it a beloved classic that quietly resonates with listeners.

It was also featured as an insert song in the first season of the TBS drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3B” and later included on the album “SELECTION 1978-81.” As a song that stands by you through the poignant end of love that comes with winter’s chill, it’s especially recommended for those facing a farewell with someone important.