Good songs recommended for people in their 50s: classic and popular J-pop tracks.

In the night sky after the rainImawano Kiyoshirō

Kiyoshiro Imawano - In the Night Sky After the Rain

Speaking of Kiyoshiro Imawano, his musical style is striking for evoking nostalgic scenes within a punky vibe.

Among his works, “Ameagari no Yozora ni” especially showcases his musical character.

While the highest notes aren’t very high, the pitch mid2F# appears frequently, so when adjusting the key, it’s best to center your tuning around that note.

The lyrics are a bit risqué, but it’s a song that tends to get the crowd going at karaoke, so consider adding it to your repertoire.

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In the Great Sky and on the Vast EarthMatsuyama Chiharu

In the Great Sky and on the Vast Earth

Set against the majestic nature of Hokkaido, this gem of a masterpiece sings of a powerful way of life.

Its lyrics, which stress the importance of continuing to look forward even while facing the setbacks and hardships everyone experiences at least once, are filled with the unique depth of insight and warmth characteristic of Chiharu Matsuyama.

Especially in moments when your heart feels like it might break, the song embodies the will to seize happiness with your own hands, gently giving listeners a reassuring push forward.

Included on the June 1977 album “Kimi no Tame ni Tsukutta Uta” (A Song Made for You), it was later featured as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “The Ugly Duckling” and used in a Snow Brand Milk Products commercial.

This is a song to hear when you stand at a crossroads in life or are about to take a new step.

Matsuyama’s clear, pure voice will surely kindle a light of courage and hope in your heart.

Sneaker BluesKondō Masahiko

Sneaker Blues - Masahiko Kondo

This is Masahiko Kondo’s debut single, released in December 1980.

Incidentally, Kondo was the first artist whose debut single entered the Oricon chart at number one.

It was used as the theme song for the film “Youth Graffiti: Sneaker Blues.”

KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

A heartwarming ballad that begins with piano tones shining under a soft glow.

Sung with a clear, emotive voice, it portrays the radiance of a world transformed by partings and new encounters—one of Sukima Switch’s quintessential masterpieces.

Released in March 2004, the song became a long-running hit over 38 weeks.

It was featured as an insert song in the film “Rough” and served as the theme for Fuji TV’s drama “Sotsu Uta,” continuing to resonate with many listeners.

Included on the albums “Natsugumo Noise,” “Greatest Hits,” and “DOUBLES BEST,” its charm deepens with time.

Perfect for those moments when you want to gaze at the night view in a lounge and reminisce about memories with someone special.

GLORIAZIGGY

GLORIA

ZIGGY’s biggest hit number, “GLORIA.” Because it’s a bright song that fully showcases ZIGGY’s style, you might think there are many parts where you have to belt.

Surprisingly, though, it doesn’t require much volume, nor is the vocal range particularly wide.

The chorus melody rises gently, which makes it relatively easy to keep the pitch steady.

However, due to the song’s upward-tilting phrasing, you will need a certain level of stamina, as you may start feeling tension around your temples as the pitch goes higher.

Don’t get carried away by the song’s brightness and set the key too high.

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SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Sakurazaka (Full ver.)

A signature song by Masaharu Fukuyama that calmly sings of a bittersweet farewell and memories of love while expressing the arrival of spring and a new sense of hope.

Its beautiful melody and striking lyrics, woven with love and wishes for a former lover, resonate deeply in the heart.

The delicate portrayal that overlays falling cherry blossoms with a poignant longing gently embraces the end of a romance that everyone has experienced at least once.

Released in April 2000, the song was used as the theme for TBS’s popular segment “Mirai Nikki V” on the show “U-nan no Hontoko!” and became a major hit, ranking second on the annual Oricon chart.

It’s the kind of gentle song you’ll want to listen to as cherry blossoms dance in the soft spring sunlight.

Crazed FruitArisu

Crazed Fruit

It’s a single released by the folk group Alice in July 1980, which peaked at No.

6 on the Oricon weekly chart.

The following year, a film directed by Kichitaro Negishi based on this song was released.

Listening to it makes you realize how hard it is to live while chasing your dreams.