A Man’s Way of Life: Songs of Men. Masterpieces packed with manly valor and aesthetics.
We’ve gathered a collection of classic songs packed with the aesthetics of manhood.
Across every genre—rock, pop, enka—you’ll find the way men live sung about in many forms.
Men may usually keep things inside, yet hold firm convictions; their willingness to take on challenges, or conversely, the strength to face their own vulnerabilities, also feels distinctly masculine.
A broad-minded generosity and single-minded devotion can be especially attractive from a woman’s perspective, too.
In this article, we introduce many timeless tracks that touch on the path of a man’s life and on love.
Every song is valiant and stirring.
Music by men that even men admire—let’s listen closely and take it all in!
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[A Man’s Way of Life] Songs of Men: Masterpieces Packed with Masculine Bravery and Aesthetics (81–90)
The Sea, That LoveKayama Yūzō
It’s a song that only Wakadaishō Kayama can sing.
The sea is truly the best stage where a man’s dreams and romance can be fully expressed—a shining arena for the soul of a man to come alive.
That image is depicted to the fullest.
Judging from the melody of this song, it seems to evoke elegance rather than roughness.
Oh, sake!Yoshi Ikuzo
This is a song known as one of Ikuzo Yoshi’s signature works.
It’s an enka number with a deep, lingering flavor that speaks of a man’s life through the metaphor of alcohol.
Yoshi’s distinctive vocal timbre and heartfelt singing resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in 1988, the song reflects the social atmosphere of the time while portraying the feelings of a man drinking alone.
It also shines with skilled folk-guitar playing and vocal techniques inherited from traditional folk songs.
It’s the perfect track for quietly sipping a drink at night and reflecting on life.
Recommended for those who want to feel a man’s way of life and his love.
You are more beautiful than a rose.Fuse Akira
An immortal masterpiece that sings of a man’s passion and resolve.
The lyrics, marveling at a woman’s transformation while praising her beauty, are deeply moving.
Released in January 1979 as the 42nd single, it was also featured in a Kanebo Cosmetics commercial.
Performed four times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it proved so popular that at the 58th edition in 2007, an OG cheering squad from the Takarazuka Revue rushed to the stage.
This work, which conveys a sincere devotion to a loved one, is recommended when you want to express your feelings to someone important or to rally yourself.
Combined with Akira Fuse’s soaring vocals, it’s a song that resonates deeply with listeners.
It’s Tough Being a ManAtsumi Kiyoshi
A signature song by Kiyoshi Atsumi that has been loved across generations.
His warm voice and lyrics that capture the subtleties of life really sink into the heart.
While depicting a man’s struggles and inner conflict, it also carries the hope that any hardship can be overcome.
Known as the theme song for the film series of the same name that began in 1969, it was released as a single in February 1970.
The films became such a popular series that 48 installments were produced and it was recognized by Guinness World Records.
It’s a song that lets you savor the feelings men usually keep inside, at an unhurried pace.
The kind of piece you want to listen to when you’re lost in life, or on a quiet, long night.
A life full of scarsTsuruta Koji
A song full of rugged charm that portrays a man confronting the hardships of life.
Koji Tsuruta’s distinctive vocal style and deep, resonant voice strike a chord with listeners.
Released in 1971, it entered the Oricon Top 10 within three months and became a massive hit, selling nearly one million copies.
Two films with the same title were also produced, with Tsuruta himself starring.
The wistful melody and lyrics convey the weight of life and have continued to be cherished by many.
When you’re lost or hurting in life, why not lend an ear to this work?
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
This song portrays the hardships and setbacks in life, and the journey of overcoming them to grasp hope.
It beautifully expresses the light that awaits beyond tears no one sees and the sweat shed in silence, woven with melodies and words that deeply resonate with listeners.
Released by Yuzu in July 2004, the song was chosen as NHK’s official theme for the Athens Olympics, and, together with the moment the men’s gymnastics team won gold, it became etched in the memories of many.
Loved as a cheer song for everyone striving toward their goals, it continues to offer support: to those taking steady steps toward their dreams and to those confronting the walls before them.
As a piece that accompanies the important moments of life, it delivers a powerful, heartfelt message that truly resonates.
[A Man’s Way of Life] Songs of Men: Masterpieces Filled with Masculine Bravery and Aesthetics (91–100)
Let’s become a familyFukuyama Masaharu
A love song woven by Masaharu Fukuyama, a gem of a ballad overflowing with warm affection.
Its gentle melody tenderly embraces the precious feelings you share, harmonizing beautifully with heartwarming lyrics that focus on marriage and family bonds.
It carefully portrays gratitude toward one’s partner and hope for a future walked together, making it a timeless masterpiece that resonates deeply with listeners.
Released in August 2011, the song was featured in the commercial for Recruit’s wedding magazine Zexy and reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It has continued to be cherished at many weddings ever since.
This is a song that stays close to the heart—one to listen to when you want to feel the bond with someone special or when you’re about to take a new step in life.