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Songs popular among men in their 40s. Timeless classics that bring back memories.

As a man in your 40s, what kind of music do you usually listen to?

Of course, you probably hear a lot of the latest hits, but chances are you still love the songs that were with you during your youth.

In fact, when it comes to songs popular among men in their 40s today, many of them are tracks that made waves around the 1990s.

In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of Japanese songs—focusing on hits from that era—that are especially recommended for men in their 40s.

They’re full of classics perfect for karaoke or for listening to in the car, so definitely give them a listen.

They might just bring back memories from those days.

Popular songs among men in their 40s. Timeless tracks that bring back memories (31–40)

Eternal, unchanging loveOda Tetsurō

An Everlasting, Unchanging Love - Tetsurō Oda
Eternal, unchanging loveOda Tetsurō

As a hitmaker who defined the 1990s, Tetsuro Oda was hugely active in the J-POP scene as a singer, composer, and producer, and this is his biggest solo hit.

Its refreshing sound has a uniquely appealing quality.

No matter how many times you listen, it never fades or gets old.

Many of you probably remember it well.

Several artists, including Kobukuro, Ryuichi Kawamura, and Ms.OOJA, have covered it.

Released in March 1992, it was tied in as the theme for Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat commercial and became a major hit, even reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

Until the World Ends…WANDS

Until the World Ends... – WANDS (Full)
Until the World Ends…WANDS

This is the ending theme for Season 2 of the hit anime SLAM DUNK.

Those who watched it back then will undoubtedly be transported back to their youth when they hear this song.

But even people who didn’t watch it in real time can sink into a pleasant sense of nostalgia.

It’s a love song marked by a refreshing guitar solo, and instead of focusing on an individual romance, it takes on a grand story that centers on the universal feelings of love and affection shared by everyone.

It can be interpreted as one man’s love song, but if you listen to the lyrics in the second verse, the worldview will surely expand.

We often end up focusing on the visuals and let the music play in the background without really listening.

Try paying attention to the lyrics, too.

The sun is burning.THE YELLOW MONKEY

A 1995 hit by The Yellow Monkey, who achieved a miraculous reunion and are still active as of 2019.

Its upbeat sound and instantly memorable chorus make it perfect for karaoke.

Why not give it a try while imitating Kazuya Yoshii’s distinctive vocals and wavy, wriggling moves?

A Beautiful Burning ForestToukyou Sukapara Daisu Ookesutora

Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra / A Beautifully Burning Forest
A Beautiful Burning ForestToukyou Sukapara Daisu Ookesutora

This track by Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra—known largely for their instrumental image—features Tamio Okuda as a guest vocalist.

The lyrics, evoking the unease of being lost in a forest with no exit and a lingering sense of impending farewell, leave a strong impression.

Okuda’s slightly languid voice beautifully conveys the bittersweet world the song paints.

Released in February 2002, it also became widely known as the song used in Kirin’s “Hyouketsu Kajitsu” commercial.

With its progression from a quiet introduction to a passionate band sound, it’s a perfect fit for a sentimental night.

single bedSha ran Q

Sharam Q “Single Bed” (Music Video)
single bedSha ran Q

This is a poignant ballad by Sharam Q, the band fronted by Tsunku, who is also known as a producer for idol groups like Morning Musume and Melon Kinenbi.

Released in 1994, it sparked a boom.

Although it peaked at No.

9 on the Oricon charts at the time, it became a long-running hit and Sharam Q’s first million-selling single.

It’s a breakup ballad that sings about being unable to forget a former lover.

The dramatic chorus melody is so catchy that once you hear it, you won’t forget it.

Popular songs among men in their 40s: Classic tracks that bring back memories (41–50)

suddenlyFIELD OF VIEW

Suddenly - FIELD OF VIEW (Aiemu acoustic cover) requested song
suddenlyFIELD OF VIEW

“Totsuzen” is the second single by FIELD OF VIEW, released in 1995.

This million-selling song was also used in a Pocari Sweat commercial.

Although it’s an old track, it still feels fresh to listen to—bright and uplifting.

At all times.Makihara Noriyuki

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “No Matter What” (Music Video) [3rd Single] (1991) Noriyuki Makihara/donnatokimo [No. 1]
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki

A song released by Noriyuki Makihara in 1991 as his third single.

With its familiar, catchy melody, it became his biggest hit and helped make his name known nationwide.

Even long after its release, it has continued to enjoy lasting popularity, being featured in many companies’ commercials.