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

I want to see you.yuzu

Aitai

In April 2009, Yuzu released a gem of a ballad imbued with a stirring melody and deep feelings for a loved one.

Created by Kitagawa as an expression of gratitude and love for his late father, the song touched many hearts as the theme for the NHK drama “Ghost Friends.” Carried by a warm piano tone and a beautiful string arrangement, it gives voice to a heartfelt wish for a beloved person who has been lost.

Their moving performance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen remains fresh in memory, and the song was also included on the album “Yuzu Iroha 1997–2017,” where it continues to be cherished.

It is a piece that gently stays close to the hearts of those who have experienced the parting of a dear one or who carry feelings they cannot fully express.

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.

First loveHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “First Love” Music Video

A ballad by Motohiro Hata, woven with sincere feelings carried by his clear, translucent voice.

He tenderly portrays memories of a love that ended against the flow of fate, likening them to a blue apple and tangled threads.

Released in January 2013 as the ending theme for the TV anime “Space Brothers” and later included on the album “Signed POP,” this work is a characteristically minor-key song from Hata.

Coupled with Seiji Kameda’s delicate arrangement, it strikingly depicts the pain and regret of a love that reached its farewell while still immature.

Hata’s relatable vocals make it a song that recalls the bitter experiences of a first love.

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.

A woman born in OsakaBORO

BORO – The Woman Born in Osaka

Known as a local song of Osaka, “Osaka de Umareta Onna” (The Woman Born in Osaka) is a track sung by singer-songwriter BORO.

He reportedly wrote it in response to a request for “a song about Osaka.” The original was an epic with as many as 18 verses, depicting the breakup between a man who decides to move to Tokyo and a woman who chooses to stay in Osaka, as well as their lives thereafter.

The version widely known today extracts only several parts, so only the key elements of the story are sung.

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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.

Endless JourneyMr.Children

Endless Journey / Mr.Children (Cover)

This is one of Mr.

Children’s signature works, featuring impressive lyrics that depict the journey of life and a grand, sweeping sound.

Its universal messages—about the importance of moving forward, the courage to face hardship, and the quest to find your ideal self—resonate deeply.

Released in October 1998 and used as the theme song for the TV drama “Naguru Onna,” it became one of their defining tracks.

It’s a song that will surely support those who keep striving toward their dreams and goals, as well as those standing at a crossroads or searching for themselves.