Easy-to-sing songs recommended for women in their 90s: A roundup of tracks to try at karaoke

Mother on the QuayKikuchi Akiko

Akiko Kikuchi - Mother on the Quay

Akiko Kikuchi’s classic song “Mother on the Wharf” is a moving piece that sings of a mother’s sorrow and love during the turmoil of the postwar period.

It poignantly depicts her longing as she waits for her son’s return, and Kikuchi’s heartfelt vocals deeply move listeners.

Released in September 1954, the song became a major hit immediately after its debut.

It was created based on the model of Ise Hashino, and the powerful bond between mother and child continues to resonate with many people today.

It remains a popular choice for karaoke, and is a masterpiece we especially hope will be sung by those who experienced the war.

tea pickingshouka

Tea Picking

The traditional Japanese children’s song “Chatsumi” (Tea Picking) depicts tea picking in early summer tea fields.

Set to a light rhythm and simple melody, it portrays women plucking fresh tea buds on the 88th night of spring.

From the lyrics, you can sense the importance of tea picking and how it serves as a seasonal symbol representing Japan’s agricultural culture and the changing of the seasons.

“Chatsumi” was first published in 1912 in Songs for Elementary Schools, Third Grade, and has since been included in various collections of children’s songs.

Cherished as a hand-play song as well, it was even adopted as the departure melody at Iruma-shi Station in Saitama Prefecture in 2016.

It’s a song loved across generations—perfect for someone in their 90s to hum while reminiscing about days gone by.

Hello, baby.Azusa Michiyo

Hello, baby.

Among Michiyo Azusa’s works, “Konnichiwa Akachan” is a classic especially known for its loving melody and lyrics.

The words, which convey a warm gaze from parent to baby, showcase the superb sensibility of Rokuyōku Eri, and they match beautifully with Hachidai Nakamura’s graceful tune.

When it was released in 1963, it became a huge hit and has remained beloved for many years since.

It has even been used in segments of the TV show Guruguru Ninety-Nine and as a movie theme song, making it a piece that transcends generations.

It’s a perfect song for someone in their 90s to sing while fondly reminiscing about their own baby days.

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu

Miagete Goran Yoru No Hoshi Wo

“Miagete Goran Yoru no Hoshi wo” is a song filled with hope.

It paints a story of the small happiness entrusted to the sparkling stars you see when you look up at the night sky.

In 1963, Kyu Sakamoto released the song as a number in the musical of the same name.

It won the Composition Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards and has long been cherished, even being included in school textbooks.

It’s a recommended track for moments when, after heartbreak or setbacks, you want to look up at the night sky and feel hope.

Sakamoto’s warm voice is soothing and will surely give you energy for tomorrow.

Why not listen to this classic as a companion for an evening walk?

Who is that child?dōyō

Who is that child?

The children’s song “Ano Ko wa Taare” vividly depicts children playing energetically in gardens and along the road, set to a lively rhythm.

Scenes like playing with dolls and walking on stilts are so innocent and charming that they’re sure to bring a smile to your face.

Since its sheet music was published in 1939, this classic has been loved for many years for its friendly melody and lyrics.

It’s also perfect for recreation at senior facilities.

Even people in their 90s will likely find themselves humming along, singing it with a childlike sense of joy.

Seven-year-old childdōyō

Seven Little Children

It’s one of Japan’s most iconic children’s songs, loved across generations for its nostalgic melody and heartwarming lyrics.

It portrays the love a parent bird has for its chick, gently conveying family bonds and a parent’s deep affection for their child.

With its calm tempo and simple vocal range, it’s also easy to sing—another charm.

It has been cherished in many settings, such as introductions on TV programs.

I think it’s a perfect song for older people to sing with fond nostalgia.

soap bubbledōyō

Soap bubble

This song is one of Japan’s most iconic children’s songs that everyone has hummed at least once.

Beneath its simple lyrics and melody lies a profound meaning.

Through the image of soap bubbles that vanish in an instant, it symbolically expresses the fragility of a child’s life that ends soon after birth.

Released in 1922, the song is said to reflect the personal sorrow of its lyricist, Ujo Noguchi.

With its simple, singable tune, it’s perfect even for people in their 90s—an ideal song for everyone to sing and enjoy together.

Why not sing it while basking in nostalgic memories?