Tear-jerking songs recommended for men in their 50s: classic and popular Japanese hits
As of 2023, those in their 50s likely spent their sensitive teenage and twenties years experiencing in real time the golden age of Japan’s music industry—from late-70s New Music through 90s J-POP.
Each of you must have your own songs filled with memories.
In this feature, we’ve gathered tracks we recommend for all of you—songs that will likely resonate and move you.
We hope they help you relive and enjoy your younger days.
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Tear-jerking songs recommended for men in their 50s: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (41–50)
MelodyTamaki Kōji
A gem of a ballad that gently envelops nostalgia for the past and feelings for what has been lost.
Koji Tamaki’s delicate vocals resonate deeply in this piece, where straightforward lyrics and a simple melody blend beautifully.
Carried by the warm tones of an acoustic guitar, it quietly sings of the resolve to face forward while holding cherished memories close.
Released in May 1996, the song has been covered by many artists over the years and has grown in esteem.
A heartwarming track that pairs perfectly with a leisurely night drive or a quiet moment alone in thought.
Tear-jerking songs recommended for men in their 50s: Classic and popular Japanese tracks (51–60)
Wine Red Heartanzenchitai
Released in 1983 as Anzen Chitai’s fourth single.
The song was used as the image song for Suntory’s “Akadama Punch” commercial and as the ending theme for the Fuji TV/National Thursday Theater drama “Machigai Darake no Otto Erabi” (“Choosing the Wrong Husband”).
It was a major hit, winning the Gold Prize at the 26th Japan Record Awards and the Best Vocal Performance at the 13th FNS Music Festival.
As one of Anzen Chitai’s signature songs, its heartrending vocals leave a deep impression.
Goodbye DayKisugi Takao
Takao Kisugi is one of the composers who defined the 1980s.
He wrote numerous classic songs such as “Silhouette Romance” and “Slow Motion,” and for a time he was also active as a singer-songwriter.
Among Kisugi’s many works, the one I especially recommend is “Goodbye Day.” It’s a piece where his signature ‘Kisugi style’ is in full bloom, but on top of that, it has a smooth finish and a very singable vocal line with a narrow range.
There are plenty of long tones, but the melodic contours are very gentle, so a man in his 50s should be able to sing it without any trouble.
I knew it—I love you.yashiki takajin
It was released in 1986 as Takajin Yashiki’s 13th single.
Composed by composer Shika Montaro, it was the first song he wrote for Yashiki.
Because Shika, who was born in Tokyo and admired Kansai culture, wrote it, the lyrics are not in perfectly accurate Osaka dialect.
However, he wished to sing about a woman’s heart, so it was released as is—an anecdote that has made it one of Takajin Yashiki’s signature songs.
Romance PromenadeNOVELA
A track from the Japanese progressive hard rock band NOVELA’s third album, Paradise Lost, which was released in December 1981.
I may have chosen a slightly niche song, but I picked it because it’s a truly wonderful ballad where vocalist Angie Hisakatsu Igarashi’s distinctive high-tone voice resonates beautifully, and I really wanted to introduce it here.
As of 2022, when I’m writing this, I imagine some people in their 50s might have covered this song and played it in their bands.
Even putting that aside, it’s a very beautiful ballad, so please enjoy it!
You’re no longer here.FUNKY MONKEY BABYS
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.
Unrequited loveSUPER BEAVER
SUPER BEAVER’s in-show song for NHK’s late-night drama “Vanilla na Mainichi” delivers a powerful rendition of aching, unrequited love that truly stirs the heart.
It’s a gem of a ballad where a melody that gently cradles a faint yearning blends beautifully with subtly warm lyrics.
First released digitally on March 7, 2025, and included on the single “Kataomoi / Namida no Shoutai,” out March 12, the track enriches the drama’s world alongside its main theme, “Namida no Shoutai.” With tender, emotional soundscapes and the band’s signature straightforward message, this heartwarming song keeps you company in those quiet moments when you secretly think of someone you love.