Tear-jerking songs for women in their 70s: from Showa-era classics to Heisei hits

Words of FarewellKaientai

Farewell Words / Kaientai (with lyrics)

Do you have any nostalgic melodies that make you feel the warmth of spring sunshine the moment you hear them? Kaientai’s classic “Okuru Kotoba” is a heartwarming piece filled with messages perfect for graduation season.

Its lyrics about the sorrow of parting, the courage to trust others, and the depth of love truly resonate.

Released in November 1979, the song also became well-known as the theme for the popular TV drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3-B.” Singing it together with older adults might spark lively conversations about fond memories.

Consider incorporating it into recreational activities at your facility.

a red handkerchiefIshihara Yūjirō

Red Handkerchief: Yujiro Ishihara

Set against the backdrop of a northern spring, this song tells the story of a bittersweet farewell in love.

Carried by a gentle, lyrical melody, Yujiro Ishihara’s rich vocals vividly portray the lingering feelings of heartbreak.

Released by Teichiku Records in October 1962, the track is also included on the album “Yujiro Ishihara Original 6.” In January 1964, it was used as the theme song for a film of the same name starring Ishihara, captivating the hearts of many alongside the movie.

Even today, it remains a beloved classic that everyone can hum along to and is very popular at karaoke.

With its heartfelt lyrics and approachable melody, it’s the perfect song for singing together and having fun.

Tsugaru Strait Winter SceneIshikawa Sayuri

Tsugaru Strait – Winter Scene

There is a classic song that beautifully and poignantly portrays a northern winter landscape and a bittersweet love.

Powerfully sung by Sayuri Ishikawa, the piece recounts the feelings of a woman traveling from Ueno on a night train to Aomori, where she bids a final farewell aboard the Seikan ferry.

Since its 1977 release, it has garnered numerous honors, including the Japan Record Award for Best Vocal Performance, and stands as a monumental work in the enka genre.

Set against the frigid Tsugaru Strait, the image of a woman quietly deciding to part ways amid snow and the roar of the sea is deeply moving.

Please enjoy a wonderful time together, singing along or clapping in rhythm as you savor nostalgic memories.

Tangled HairMisora Hibari

#Hibari Misora '#Disheveled Hair' #Shioyasaki Lighthouse Shioyamisaki

As her comeback release, Hibari Misora brought out this celebrated song of profound love and sorrow in December 1987.

Set against the backdrop of the Shioyasaki Lighthouse, it sings of unwavering feelings and prayers for someone who has gone away.

Carried by an elegant melody, it masterfully conveys the complex emotions of a woman heartbroken in love.

Recorded in a single take with a full orchestra, the session showcased Hibari Misora’s unparalleled vocal prowess.

It remains a treasured piece, long beloved by many as a song to be heard alongside cherished memories and landscapes.

Snow CountryYoshi Ikuzo

Snow Country by Ikuzo Yoshi

A masterpiece that sings of hope shining through the bitter cold, its bittersweet sense of life’s melancholy resonates deeply.

Yoshikazu Ikuzō’s vocals, tinged with sorrow yet brimming with strength, seep into the depths of the heart.

Released in 1986, it won the Gold Prize at the Japan Record Awards.

That same year, it appeared on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen and topped the Oricon charts—a work cherished by many.

Masterfully intertwining northern landscapes with the stirrings of love, this song was also used in regional tourism promotions and winter campaigns.

For many, it remains a treasured song of memories.

Why not spend a quiet moment listening to its heartwarming voice?

Farewell, my loverSakai Masaaki

Farewell, my lover

Masaaki Sakai began his music career in 1962 when he joined The Spiders, and made his solo debut in 1971 with “Saraba Koibito” (“Goodbye, My Love”).

Released as his first single after the band’s breakup, the song has since been covered by many artists and is beloved across generations.

“Saraba Koibito” portrays the feelings of a protagonist who, while sensing a poignant loneliness in choosing to part ways, blames himself for the breakup.

Although Sakai is often associated with a cheerful and lively image, this song touches on deeper emotions in life through the experience of parting.

For older listeners, it may evoke memories of their youth and moments of farewell.

A Good Day to Set Out on a JourneyYamaguchi Momoe

A Fine Day for a Journey / Momoe Yamaguchi – with lyrics – high-quality CD audio

This song, which sings of departure and hope, is a classic that resonates with many older listeners.

Momoe Yamaguchi’s gentle yet powerful voice gives listeners a push forward.

Released in November 1978, it was also used as a campaign song for Japan National Railways.

It is often performed at life’s milestones, such as graduation and weddings, and is loved across generations.

March brings the feeling of spring’s arrival.

In this season of new beginnings, why not listen to this song, bask in nostalgic memories, and feel hope for tomorrow?