[For Seniors] Recommended Songs for Care Activities and Events! Crowd-Pleasers That Bring Joy

BoyhoodInoue Yosui

Boys' Time / Yosui Inoue (with lyrics)

In Inoue Yosui’s classic song, a gentle yet resonant melody intertwines with nostalgic lyrics, suffused with reflections on youth.

Idyllic summer scenes and memories alive in the mind are spun into poetic expression, tenderly enveloping those treasured moments we keep safe in our hearts.

Since its release in September 1990, it has continued to be loved as a movie theme and a commercial song, and in 1991 it was also used in a Sony Handycam commercial.

Included on the album “Handsome Boy,” this is a tune you’ll want to hum when everyone gathers together.

Why not spend a heartwarming moment as you share stories and let memories blossom?

If you’re happy and you know it, clap your handsSakamoto Kyu

Kyu Sakamoto / If You’re Happy and You Know It (1964–65)

Its charm lies in the way you can enjoy it by expressing a heartwarming classic through full-body movement.

It’s a song that lets you share the joy of connecting with others along with a simple, familiar melody.

Released by Kyu Sakamoto in 1964, it became one of his signature songs alongside “Ue o Muite Arukou” (“Sukiyaki”).

Based on an American folk song, Toshito Kimura wrote the Japanese lyrics with wishes for peace and friendship.

A heartwarming experience in the Philippines inspired the creation of this song, and it is said to have spread through activities at the YMCA.

It has been widely used in films and commercials and has long been cherished in educational settings.

Why not enjoy clapping and body movements together with seniors and let the conversation blossom with fond memories?

the first strong spring windkyandīzu

Spring Storm - Candies

With its nostalgic melody, this song that heralds the arrival of spring likely remains in the hearts of many older listeners as a signature work by Candies.

Released in March 1976, it is characterized by a fresh, bright atmosphere reminiscent of a spring breeze.

Its lively rhythm and spirited vocals convey the feeling of a new season beginning.

The song expresses the excitement of new encounters and hopes that come with spring, warmly enveloping those who listen.

It’s perfect for humming along together at a day service, too.

Enjoy a pleasant moment as you bask in the spring sunshine and reminisce about fond memories.

The Longed-For Hawaii RouteHaruo Oka

Longing for the Hawaii Route — Popular Song — Nostalgic Tune

Haruo Oka’s “Aogare no Hawaii Koro” (The Longed-For Hawaii Route) is a classic that sang of the hopes of the Japanese people after the war.

The lyrics, depicting a ship departing from the harbor, evoke nostalgic memories.

Mentions of the ship’s bell and farewell streamers vividly bring the scenery of that time to mind.

Since its release in 1948, it has continued to be loved by many.

It was also used as a movie theme song, and the duet with a young Hibari Misora became a hot topic.

For music recreation with seniors, how about listening to this song and sharing memories together? It seems perfect for spending a relaxed moment reminiscing about the past.

Itako GasaHashi Yukio

Itako-gasa / Yukio Hashi

Yukio Hashi’s “Itako-gasa” is his debut single, released in 1960.

The lyrics portray the poignant feelings of a traveler, and the song is known as a classic that resonates with the heart.

It beautifully expresses Japan’s scenic landscapes and the complex emotions of someone who has left their hometown.

The song won the New Artist Award at the 2nd Japan Record Awards and earned a spot in that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

For many older listeners, it may be a nostalgic tune that brings back memories of their youth.

It’s also nice to sing along while moving your body gently to its soothing melody.

It could even spark conversations filled with fond memories.