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

March “Patriotism”Saitō Ushimatsu

March “Patriotism” / Patriotic March

This march, with a powerful wind band melody ringing out, was composed by Ushimatsu Saito in December 1937 for the Navy Band.

Its dignified, weighty atmosphere and the solemn lyrical melody of the middle section are beautifully balanced, and its high level of craftsmanship led to its selection as an official piece jointly adopted by the Navy and Army.

An SP record was released at the time by Polydor, featuring a performance by the Imperial Japanese Navy Band under the baton of Seigo Naitō.

From the wartime period through the postwar years, it was widely performed at ceremonies and events throughout the Asia-Pacific region and became familiar to local audiences in places like Indonesia and Palau.

The trio section incorporates Tokichi Setoguchi’s nationally beloved song “Aikoku Koshinkyoku” (Patriotic March), the composer also known for “Gunkan March.” This is a must-hear for those who wish to savor the rich sonorities and solemn melodic beauty of wind band music, as well as for anyone interested in the history of Japanese military music.

Song of the Greater East Asia Decisive Battlekaigun gungakutai

Military Song: Song of the Greater East Asia Decisive Battle (Color Version)

This is a passionate brass band piece reminiscent of a wartime national anime.

The powerful performance by the Navy Band is arranged in a march style that combines dignity and grandeur.

The work was released simultaneously by Nippon Columbia and Victor Records in March 1942, and a promotional film was also produced.

The film features top-tier actors, including kabuki performers Ennosuke Ichikawa, Yaōzō Ichikawa, and Danshirō Ichikawa, and even includes choreographed dance scenes.

Numerous wind band arrangements exist, making it well-suited for performances by choirs and brass bands.

It’s a must-listen for those who want to experience a commanding wind ensemble sound that evokes a sense of national history.

Life is full of ups and downs.Shimakura Chiyoko

Life is full of ups and downs.

This is a gem of a melody that gently sings of the joys and hardships of life.

The strength to live through inner conflict and adversity is warmly embraced by the rich, lustrous vocals.

Once you hear it, it resonates in your heart—a work filled with hope.

Released by Chiyoko Shimakura in 1987, this song, following her 30 consecutive appearances on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, became a major springboard for her participation in the 1988 broadcast.

Brimming with memories, the piece also features lyrics that resonate with the life experiences of older adults.

Humming along together at events such as Respect-for-the-Aged gatherings can create a heartwarming shared moment.

Let’s say farewell to tearsMorita Kensaku

Kensaku Morita, “Let’s Say Goodbye to Tears,” 1973

A classic song filled with the bittersweetness of youth and a forward-looking spirit.

Released in March 1971, it drew attention as the theme song for the TV drama “Ore wa Otoko da!” Kensaku Morita’s refreshing vocals and Yū Aku’s deeply resonant lyrics are a perfect match, capturing the hearts of many.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to overcome the worries and setbacks of youth and step toward the future.

This work has long been cherished as one of Kensaku Morita’s signature songs.

It is likely beloved by older listeners as well, remembered as a song that encouraged them at various moments in life.

It’s a wonderful track that, along with a sense of nostalgia, awakens the youthful spirit sleeping in your heart.

SubaruTanimura Shinji

Shinji Tanimura - Subaru (with lyrics)

This is a ballad that evokes the vast expanse of the universe, distinguished by Shinji Tanimura’s deep, resonant voice.

Its hopeful lyrics and melody touch the heart at life’s important milestones.

Released in 1980, the piece has been featured in many music programs and events, and while rooted in folk, it incorporates classical elements, making it a polished masterpiece.

Shinji Tanimura was also active as an educator, becoming a full-time professor at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music in 2004, and he deepened connections with many people through music.

It’s a recommended song for music recreation with older adults, offering a calm listening experience with its relaxed tempo.

It would make for a lovely time to hum along together while sharing memories.

school daysPegī Hayama

Peggy Hayama - Student Days (with lyrics)

Some people may be wondering, “Is Peggy Hayama half-Japanese?” but she was fully Japanese.

Peggy Hayama is a stage name, inspired by a friend she met through a crossed telephone line who said, “Your voice feels like ‘Peggy.’” It’s funny how inspiration can come from anywhere.

Her hit song “Gakusei Jidai” (“Student Days”) was originally titled “Daigaku Jidai” (“College Days”), but the title was reportedly changed after Peggy said, “I didn’t attend college.” It’s a song filled with nostalgia and many fond memories of youth.

Song of DepartureKamijō Tsunehiko & Rokumonsen

Song of Departure

“Departure Song” is a piece born from the collaboration between Tsunehiko Kamijō and the folk group Rokumonsen.

Its hopeful lyrics—urging you to “fly beyond the galaxy”—leave a strong impression and give you the courage to take a step toward a new beginning.

Upon its release in 1971, it became a major hit, and by 1974 it had even been included in high school music textbooks, attesting to its influence.

Despite being produced under a tight deadline, it went on to win the Grand Prix at the World Popular Song Festival, making the behind-the-scenes story as fascinating as the song itself.