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 for Men. Masterpieces Filled with Masculine Valor and Aesthetic (41–50)
Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenKawashima Eigo
This is a socially conscious masterpiece that portrays the subtle miscommunications between men and women and the nuances of emotional expression with deep insight.
It warmly observes how men open up through drinking and women through tears, each revealing their inner feelings.
Born from impressions Eigo Kawashima had at age 18 during a family memorial gathering, the song was included on the November 1975 album “Jinrui” (Humanity) and released as a single in June 1976.
Also known as the jingle for the sake brand Kizakura, it became a major hit, reaching No.
9 on the Oricon weekly chart.
It is a gem I recommend to anyone who wants to face their heart honestly when confronted with life’s sorrow and poignancy.
[A Man’s Way of Life] Songs of Men: Masterpieces filled with manly bravery and aesthetics (51–60)
loadTHE toraburyū
The signature work of THE Toraba-ryu is a masterpiece that portrays the path of life unfolding serenely on an epic scale.
Powerfully voicing the resolve to face adversity and loneliness, this song depicts a stance of overcoming setbacks and moving forward, leaving a deep imprint on many listeners’ hearts.
Its lyrics, which symbolically express life’s journey, resonate with listeners and offer courage and hope.
First released in May 1992 and re-released in 1993, it achieved an astonishing 2.2 million sales.
It was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name released in 1997 and won an Excellence Award at the Japan Cable Radio Awards.
It’s a perfect pick not only for livening up gatherings with friends but also for karaoke with older audiences.
Be sure to showcase this powerful classic that invites everyone to sing along and share in the moment.
Gardenia blossomWatanabe Tetsuya
A classic song that powerfully portrays the life of a man steeped in melancholy.
Released in August 1973, it became a major hit, ranking 7th on the 1974 Oricon year-end chart.
Tetsuya Watari’s deep, rugged vocals poignantly convey the ache of lost love.
Using the gardenia flower as a symbol, the lyrics weave together nostalgia for days gone by and a lingering sense of regret, resonating deeply with listeners.
Beloved in many contexts—including Watari’s first appearance on the 1974 Kōhaku Uta Gassen and its use in the 1976 film of the same title—this is a song for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or parting, or stands at a crossroads in life.
It’s easy to sing at karaoke and has a universal appeal that resonates with people of all genders.
Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji
A fiery rock number that grabs you from the opening guitar riff! Known as one of Kenji Sawada’s signature songs, this track powerfully sings of a man’s way of life and his romantic feelings.
Released in May 1977, it became a massive hit, topping the Oricon weekly charts for five consecutive weeks.
While portraying the complex emotions of a heartbroken man, it expresses a free-spirited attitude along with resignation and loneliness toward a former lover.
This stylish, adult-tinged song with a wistful air may resonate not only with those troubled by love, but also when you’re feeling lost in life.
Carried by Kenji Sawada’s powerful vocals, why not go ahead and live freely yourself?
CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi
This is a renowned song that has continued to resonate with many as an anthem celebrating life’s new beginnings.
Originally released in September 1980 on the album “Kampai,” it vividly depicts a celebratory scene lit by candlelight and carries a warm message of encouragement for a friend taking their first step forward.
Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s powerful vocals deliver hope and courage for the future.
In 1988, it was re-recorded and released as a single, becoming a major hit that reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
In the early 1990s, it was also featured in commercials for Kirin Lager Beer, further boosting its recognition.
To this day, it remains a timeless song passed down through the years, often chosen to convey heartfelt feelings to loved ones at important milestones in life, such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.
draft (cold air seeping through gaps)Sugi Ryōtarō
A fine song that quietly observes the way a man lives.
Released in October 1976, it became a massive hit, selling over a million copies.
The nuanced subtleties of life are woven into the deep, rugged vocals of Ryotaro Sugi, who is also active as an actor.
It was used as the ending theme for Toyama no Kin-san and resonated with many people.
The song carefully depicts the process of overcoming setbacks and hardships to find happiness, giving courage to those who listen.
When you stand at a crossroads in life or experience a farewell with someone important, listening to it will surely warm your heart.
Please give it a listen.
A Man’s Badge of HonorYokohama Ginbae
A masterpiece that portrays the fiery spirit of a young man forging his own path with a rebellious heart.
Released in April 1982, it is known as one of Daisuke Shima’s signature songs.
Written and composed by Johnny of Yokohama Ginbae, the work features powerful vocals and a strong sense of justice, emblematic of the 1980s tsuppari (delinquent) youth culture.
The song was used as the theme for the Nippon TV drama “Ten made Agare!” and reached No.
3 on the weekly Oricon charts.
Its lyrics carefully depict the protagonist’s resolve to stay true to his beginnings despite facing adversity, resonating deeply across generations.
It was also covered as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “From Today, It’s My Turn!!,” which boosted its popularity among younger audiences.
For example, it’s beloved as a cheer song in high school baseball and has been used as a walk-up song by professional baseball players—an anthem that pushes forward those striving toward their dreams.