A collection of moving, tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 90s—heartfelt tunes that resonate with the soul.
For people in their 90s, songs released in the Showa era likely left a deep and lasting impression.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of moving, tear-jerking classics from the Showa period.
From songs about heartbreak to those that celebrate family bonds, each piece conveys its own range of emotions.
When recommending songs to women in their 90s, it would be great to suggest them along with the lyric sheets.
I hope this becomes an opportunity to find songs that resonate with their own experiences and memories, moving their hearts.
Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 90s: A collection of moving, heart-touching songs (1–10)
Ai-chan as a brideSuzuki Mieko
Mieko Suzuki’s “Ai-chan wa Oyome ni” is a heartwarming song released in 1956.
It sold 180,000 copies at the time and went on to surpass a cumulative total of 700,000 copies by 1968, becoming a major hit.
It was even adapted into a film in 1957, capturing the hearts of many.
For older listeners, this song may be a special piece that brings back memories of their youth or their own weddings.
It promises a lovely time filled with nostalgia, helping listeners once again feel the bonds they share with their loved ones.
Ah, the night in Muntinlupa deepensWatanabe Hamako
Hamako Watanabe’s “Ah, The Night in Muntinlupa Deepens” is a classic that resonated deeply with the hearts of postwar Japanese.
Its poignant lyrics, which sing of the homesickness felt by Japanese war criminals confined in a Philippine internment camp, are profoundly moving.
Set to a gently reflective ballad, the song tenderly expresses longing for family and hometown, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
Released in September 1952, it became a major hit, selling over 200,000 copies.
Its influence was significant, even contributing to the eventual repatriation of all detainees.
For elderly people who experienced the war, it may be a song that brings back memories and emotions from that time.
umbilical cordSOFFet
This song, perfect for Mother’s Day when feelings of gratitude toward parents overflow, is a number that weaves together thanks to one’s mother—thanks that become harder to express in words as we grow up.
The reason we’re alive like this now is undoubtedly because our moms were always watching over us.
That sentiment is embedded in the song.
It’s a single released in June 2005 by SOFFet, a music group formed by childhood friends from their elementary school days.
It was the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Enta! Mitamon Kachi.” It was later included on the album “Kokoro Film Note.” The gentle melody featuring piano and strings paired with rap feels so pleasant, doesn’t it? While reflecting on your own childhood memories, it’s also recommended as a message song for older listeners.
It’s Tokyo, Mom!Shimakura Chiyoko
Chiyoko Shimakura’s “Tokyo da yo, Okkasan” is a classic wrapped in simple warmth.
The lyrics, depicting a tour of Tokyo’s landmarks with one’s mother, are filled with nostalgia and tenderness.
Shimakura’s clear, transparent voice delivers a moving resonance that touches the heart.
Since its release in 1957, the song has continued to be loved by many.
It might be nice to listen to it with older family members and reminisce about the old days.
Its relaxed tempo makes it easy to hum along, which is another charm.
A heartwarming piece that lets you feel the bond with someone special.
Goodbye, people of Tokyo.Shimakura Chiyoko
Chiyoko Shimakura’s “Goodbye, People of Tokyo” is a masterpiece that vividly portrays a farewell in the big city.
The delicate imagery—the sea and harbor scenes, the sound of a ship’s whistle that evokes the sorrow of parting—deeply resonates.
Released in 1957, the song became one of Shimakura’s signature works, was adapted into a film, and has been loved by many.
For older listeners, it may bring back memories of the past and farewells with loved ones.
Why not savor its unforgettable lyrics alongside the nostalgic scenery of the Showa era?
Sad WhistleMisora Hibari
Hibari Misora’s “Kanashiki Kuchibue” (The Sad Whistle) is a classic that poignantly sings of a breakup and the loneliness that follows.
Set against the backdrop of Gion’s summer festival, it portrays the feelings of someone harboring an unfulfilled love while trying to remain stoic, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released on September 10, 1949, it was also used as the theme song for Hibari Misora’s first starring film when she was just 12 years old.
Selling an astonishing 450,000 copies, it became a major milestone in her singing career.
For many older listeners, it may overlap with memories of their youth.
Why not let a sense of nostalgia wash over you and take your time immersing yourself in the world of its lyrics?
In the flow of the starsKikuchi Akiko
“Hoshi no Nagare ni” is a classic in which Akiko Kikuchi’s soulful voice resounds.
Set amid the turmoil of the postwar era, it beautifully depicts a woman’s feelings as she tries to look forward despite sorrow and loneliness.
Its graceful melody and deeply emotional lyrics sink into the heart and offer solace to listeners.
Since its release in 1947, the song has continued to be loved by many.
One of its charms is that it has been covered by numerous singers, including Mina Aoe and Sayuri Ishikawa.
Give it a listen when you want to reflect on nostalgic memories or need a song that stays close to your heart.