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

Lovers’ PavementTHE ALFEE

THE ALFEE – Lovers’ Pavement [2016 Winter Fest]

This is THE ALFEE’s 19th single, released on October 17, 1984.

Incidentally, at the time of release the unit name did not include “THE” and was simply “ALFEE.” It’s a classic ballad with lead vocals by Mr.

Takamizawa, whose clear, high voice is captivating, and just by listening you can feel the crisp autumn sky and the transparent atmosphere of a winter city.

There aren’t many songs that evoke such vivid imagery and ambience simply by being heard.

Please enjoy!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kei Takahata

Report a problem

Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki

Tohku Tohku

This is a masterpiece by Noriyuki Makihara that deeply stirs memories and nostalgia from one’s school days.

It’s a carefully crafted number that depicts striving in a new place while quietly holding thoughts of one’s hometown and friends in one’s heart.

Featured on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” the song returned to the spotlight in 2006 as the theme for an NTT East Japan commercial.

It also aired during the reunion special of the TV program “Marumaru Chibi Maruko-chan” in July 2007, drawing attention.

It’s a warm ballad that offers comfort not only to those living away from home, but also to anyone embarking on a new journey in the spring.

Let’s start from goodbyeSano Motoharu

Let's Start from Goodbye - Goodby Kara Hajimeyo / Motoharu Sano / cover by Hiroko Williams, sung by Hiroko Williams

A slow ballad with elegantly resonant strings that poignantly captures the moment of parting.

It’s said to be a song Motoharu Sano wrote and composed during his high school years.

The contrast between those who wave goodbye and the protagonist who cannot brings the lonely heart that struggles to accept the farewell vividly into focus.

Released in March 1983 as his 10th single, it was also included on the album No Damage, released in April of the same year.

Its steadily unfolding, lyrical melody quietly accompanies anyone who has experienced a departure or a goodbye, and is sure to evoke deep empathy.

Azure RabbitNoriko Sakai

Azure Rabbit

This song was released in 1995 as the theme song for the drama “Hoshi no Kinka,” and it was sung by Noriko Sakai, known as “Nori-P.” Songs that become drama themes really do leave a strong impression.

Both Emi Makiho, who wrote the lyrics, and Tetsuro Oda, who composed the music, have done self-covers of this track, so it might be fun to compare their versions.

If you sing it while reminiscing about that time, the chorus would probably turn into a big sing-along.

It’s a great song that has stood the test of time.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

Report a problem

In the Sun and the DustCHAGE and ASKA

[MV] In the Sun and Dust / CHAGE and ASKA

A powerful pop number that captures the sparkle of youth and the struggles of life.

Released as a single by CHAGE and ASKA in January 1991, this work warmly portrays young people who carry dreams and hopes while confronting a reality that doesn’t go their way.

Its lyrics, interweaving the joy and poignancy of living, leave an even deeper impression through a beautiful, resonant melody and effective use of synthesizers.

Chosen as a re-cut single from the album “SEE YA,” it gained wide support after being featured in a Nissin Foods commercial and as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s program “TIME3.” When you feel overwhelmed by work and daily life and want to pause to face your own heart, this song will be there to gently stay by your side.

Before anything else, from atop the roadIsseifubi Sepia

Issei Fubi Sepia “Dear Sir/Madam, From Above the Road” [Official]

This track, distinguished by lively festival-like drums and flutes, weaves in themes that deeply reflect on the meaning of life and personal values through scenes of nature.

While questioning the purpose of living and our reason for being, it delivers a powerful message of courage and hope in the face of hardship.

Released in June 1984 as the debut single of Ikkyo Fubi Sepia, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon charts.

It was also used in commercials for SUZUKI’s scooter “Love THREE” and Kirin Beer’s “Kirin Shochu Tanrei Straight,” gaining popularity across a wide audience.

It’s a song that gives you the strength to face forward and keep walking when you’re at a crossroads in life, feeling lost or anxious.

sonetACIDMAN

ACIDMAN – sonet Music Video (WOWOW “W Series Drama: Golden Kamuy — Hokkaido Tattooed Prisoner Competition Arc” Final Episode Ending Theme)

Within its grand melody, this song holds both the resolve to live boldly and a gentle tenderness.

Set against the vast nature of Hokkaido, it portrays life’s joys and sorrows through the moon and stars shining in the night sky, and the falling rain and snow.

Along the journey of chasing dreams, it leaves a deep afterglow that quietly speaks to the importance of living true to oneself.

The track was pre-released by ACIDMAN in December 2024, with the CD following in January 2025.

Chosen as the ending theme for the final episode of WOWOW’s drama “Renzoku Drama W Golden Kamuy — Hokkaido Tattooed Prisoner Contest Arc,” it is also complemented by striking footage shot on location in Hokkaido by film director Shigeaki Kubo.

When you stand at a crossroads in life or face an important decision, this is a song that will stay close to your heart.