RAG MusicRecreation
Lovely senior life

Uplifting songs recommended for a man in his 90s—positive tunes to boost his spirits

In this article, we’ll introduce a roundup of uplifting songs recommended for men in their 90s.

Focusing on Showa-era enka and popular songs that defined the time, we’ve selected many great recommendations.

Some songs have lyrics that will bring back memories of student days and youth, while others rekindle dreams and passions from younger years.

As you listen, you’ll likely feel energy welling up in your heart once again.

If you’re reading this article, please be sure to recommend the songs introduced here to the men in their 90s in your life.

Uplifting songs for men in their 90s to listen to. Recommended positive songs (21–30)

Hanjirō of the Hakone Eight RiHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Hanzirō of Hakone Hachiri [Official]
Hanjirō of the Hakone Eight RiHikawa Kiyoshi

With its signature catchphrase, Kiyoshi Hikawa’s debut single “Hakonê Hachiri no Hanjirō” quickly became widely known.

Beyond his powerful vocals, his handsome looks won broad acceptance among younger women who had previously been less interested in enka, propelling him to instant nationwide stardom.

The song’s phrases function as a call-and-response with fans, reportedly creating an electrifying atmosphere at concerts.

Thanks to this, the song is widely recognized and enjoys great popularity at karaoke.

It’s also sure to liven up recreational activities at senior care facilities.

Brother ShipsToba Ichirō

This is a masterpiece of enka that powerfully expresses the deep bond among fisherman brothers and their devotion to family.

Tetsurō Funamura’s grand melody blends with Tetsurō Hoshino’s moving lyrics, while Ichirō Toba’s rugged vocals bring out the work’s full appeal.

Because Ichirō Toba himself has real-life fishing experience, the pride and spirit of men of the sea come through vividly.

Released in August 1982, the song sold over 290,000 copies on the Oricon charts and won the Newcomer Award at the 16th All Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.

It has also been performed seven times on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, earning strong support from enka fans.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing and highly recommended for karaoke that stirs the heart.

Don’t give upZARD

This hit song by ZARD, emblematic of the 1990s, is an uplifting anthem marked by Izumi Sakai’s gentle vocals and positive message.

Its lyrics, which convey compassion and courage, and its up-tempo yet warmly embracing melody resonate deeply.

Released in January 1993, it was chosen the following year as the entrance march for the Spring High School Baseball Tournament, and it has been broadcast annually on Nippon TV’s “24-Hour Television.” This track is a go-to favorite for livening up karaoke with friends.

Its universally known melody and Sakai’s clear voice evoke moving feelings that transcend generations.

What a nice bath.Za Dorifutāzu

This is a song that celebrates the charms of hot spring resorts, beloved from the Showa-era hit TV program “It’s 8 o’clock! Everybody, Gather Round!” The original version, sung by the Duke Aces, was themed around hot spring areas in Gunma Prefecture, and The Drifters covered it on the B-side of their debut single.

The lyrics were adapted to feature hot spring resorts across Japan—such as Noboribetsu and Kusatsu—expressing fondness for onsen through a lively rhythm and call-and-response shouts.

The song was used as the ending theme for both “It’s 8 o’clock! Everybody, Gather Round!” and “Drifters’ Big Laughter,” and it also appeared in a 1969 film.

Humming it together with older adults while reminiscing about hot spring trips can make for a heartwarming moment.

Like a flower that blooms in the fieldDa Kāpo

Like a Wildflower – Da Capo #LikeAWildflower #DaCapo #TheNakedGeneral’sWanderingTales
Like a flower that blooms in the fieldDa Kāpo

A timeless song with a simple, gentle warmth brings a refreshing breath of spring that makes you want to hum along.

In words anyone can understand, it conveys the importance of living naturally, like flowers blooming in the fields.

Da Capo released this heart-touching piece in July 1983.

Beloved as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “The Naked General’s Travelogue,” its lyrics inspired many by giving courage to face life’s challenges.

Since 1992, the song has also been included in elementary school music textbooks, and it continues to be sung across generations.

Please enjoy this piece—one that evokes fond memories and the calm arrival of spring—together with older adults.