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

prideImai Miki

Miki Imai - 'PRIDE' Music Video

This song by Miki Imai, released in 1996, was used as the theme song for the drama “Doc.” It was written by Tomoyasu Hotei before he married Imai, and imagining that context, the lyrics feel quite suggestive.

Imai was hugely popular not only among men in their 50s but also among women, admired as a natural and cool actress.

Even with the passage of time, both the lyrics and the melody remain unfading—one of those timeless classics.

If a man sings it, it’s sure to boost his likability.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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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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Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi

Like the Moon Tonight / Elephant Kashimashi

It’s a deeply moving masterpiece that powerfully sings of passion for the future while gazing into everyday feelings of emptiness and loneliness.

Set against the backdrop of a city at dusk, it portrays the solitude and struggles of people living in an urban landscape, yet conveys a strong will to keep looking forward and moving on.

The soulful vocals unique to Elephant Kashimashi and the melody that resonates with the heart are beautifully in harmony.

Released in July 1997, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Because the Moon Shines at Night,” and was also included on the album “Run Toward Tomorrow – Moonlit Songs.” In 2017, it was performed in the band’s first appearance on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, winning over even more listeners.

It’s a track that will evoke deep empathy when you feel lost in life or spend a night thinking of someone dear.

Stars on EarthNakajima Miyuki

Stars on the Ground / Miyuki Nakajima [Official]

This song is imbued with a warm gaze and deep respect for people who usually remain out of the spotlight.

Miyuki Nakajima portrays those who strive to live in places where no one looks, using beautiful metaphors.

It is an ode to unsung heroes who keep making efforts in various places, shining like stars in everyday life.

Released in July 2000, the piece was chosen as the theme song for NHK’s documentary program Project X: Challengers, and together with the program’s moving content, it deeply resonated with many viewers.

It set a record by staying on Oricon’s Weekly Singles Chart for 174 consecutive weeks.

It is a song that gives you a powerful push forward in those moments when the pressures of daily life make you want to stop.

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!

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Kei Takahata

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