Recommended Cheer-Up Songs for People in Their 70s: A Collection of Uplifting Tunes

Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterIzumiya Shigeru

Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Shigeru Izumiya, born in 1948, has been active in many fields as a singer-songwriter and as an actor.

His music falls within the folk and rock genres, and especially “Shunkashuto” (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter) has long been cherished by many as one of his signature works.

Through the changing of the four seasons, the song delicately depicts life’s joys and sorrows, life and death, beginnings and endings.

Izumiya’s profound lyricism blends beautifully with the melody, stirring a wide range of emotions in listeners.

For older listeners, this song can inspire reflection on the various stages of life and offer the courage and strength to take the next step.

soft; gentle; pliantMisora Hibari

soft; gentle; pliant

Hibari Misora was born in 1937 and made her mark as the queen of the Japanese music world.

Her song “Yawara” was released in 1964 and is known for expressing the spirit of judo.

The song symbolizes a flexible mind that transcends victory and defeat, as well as perseverance through the many phases of life.

For older adults, “Yawara” is a piece that accompanies decades of life experience and gives the courage to keep looking forward.

It can serve as steady support for small but certain steps forward in everyday life.

It is especially recommended for those seeking fresh vitality in their daily routine or a warm, heartfelt encouragement.

It’s okayHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Daijoubu [Official]

Life brings both hardships and joys, and Kiyoshi Hikawa delivers a warm, gentle song that embraces them all.

Released in 2019, this piece expresses the sorrow and romantic feelings everyone experiences through his beautiful voice.

Like the moon setting and the sun rising, its hopeful message—that tomorrow will surely come—resonates deeply.

Also included on the album “Shin Enka Meikyoku Collection 9,” this song is perfect for singing along together at recreational gatherings.

Its friendly, easy-to-sing melody and uplifting lyrics are part of its charm.

Into the DreamInoue Yosui

Yosui Inoue – “Into the Dream” Music Video

A beloved Shōwa-era classic by Yosui Inoue, this song poetically expresses the everyday pains and hassles that make you want to escape into a dream.

Released in March 1973, it became his first hit to rank within the top 20 on the Oricon charts.

It was also used as the theme song for the film “After School,” selling around 200,000 copies.

Since then, it has been covered by many artists and cherished across generations.

When life wears you down, why not let its gentle melody and lyrics soothe your heart? You may find hope for tomorrow welling up inside you.

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu

Miagete Goran Yoru No Hoshi Wo

A song that celebrates diligence and the importance of holding on to your dreams.

“Look Up at the Stars at Night” (Miagete Goran Yoru no Hoshi o) is Kyu Sakamoto’s smash hit released in 1963, originally created as a number for the musical of the same name.

Based on the story of a struggling student who works by day and attends an evening high school, the piece became an anthem symbolizing young people’s hopes and won the Composer’s Prize at the 5th Japan Record Awards.

Frequently included in middle and high school music textbooks, it’s a beloved song across generations.

Its lyrics, which pray for happiness while gazing up at a shimmering starry sky, express the irreplaceable joys one feels at various moments in life.

For those in their seventies, it may be the perfect uplifting song that brings back memories of youth and gives a boost of encouragement.

There’s always tomorrowSakamoto Kyu

Ashita Ga Arusa

Kyu Sakamoto’s classic song delivers energy and courage to the hearts of its listeners.

Released in 1963, this Japanese hit features lyrics by Yukio Aoshima and music by Hachidai Nakamura, and has been loved by many for its comical lyrics and bright melody.

In 2000, it was used as a commercial song for Georgia, a canned coffee by Coca-Cola Japan, bringing it back into the spotlight.

This work conveys the importance of holding on to hope at all times.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to face forward and keep walking without fear of failure.

Words of FarewellKaientai

This song, born out of heartbreak, is characterized by its warm melody and lyrics that resonate deeply.

It sings about the importance of shedding tears and the attitude of trusting others without fear of being hurt.

Released in November 1979, it was also used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3B.” It became one of Kaientai’s signature works, winning the Gold Prize at the 21st Japan Record Awards.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you stand at a crossroads in life and want to pause and face your feelings.

A heartwarming piece that conveys kindness toward others and the importance of believing in people.