[2026] Recommended karaoke songs for women in their 70s: from enka to Showa-era pop

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.

Shiretoko Ryojo (Shiretoko Travel Sentiment)Katō Tokiko

Shiretoko Love – Tokiko Kato

Tokiko Kato’s “Shiretoko Ryojo” is a masterpiece that gracefully paints a musical world steeped in the Showa era.

Since its release on November 1, 1970, it has captivated countless listeners.

Set against the grandeur of Shiretoko’s natural scenery, the song portrays a tale of romance, showcasing Kato’s expressive artistry at its finest.

In 2004, the album “Shiretoko Ryojo: The 40th Anniversary” was released, allowing the song to continue being cherished by an even wider range of generations.

With its gentle melody and deeply emotive vocals, it’s a karaoke favorite not only for women in their seventies but for people of all ages!

Tokyo Boogie-WoogieKasaogi Shizuko

Shizuko Kasagi – Tokyo Boogie-Woogie [Music Video]

This classic song by Shizuko Kasagi, a major influence on the Showa-era music scene, stands as a landmark of Japanese pop that brought brightness and vitality to postwar Japan.

Set to the buoyant rhythm of boogie-woogie, it paints a heart-thumping world filled with the joy and hope of youth.

Released by Nippon Columbia in January 1948, it became a record-breaking hit, selling 270,000 copies in its first year.

Its inclusion in the film Drunken Angel helped it win affection across a wide audience.

Etched in people’s hearts alongside memories of the Showa period, this work has the power to evoke nostalgic recollections.

It’s likely to be a treasured song to hum together with older listeners, sharing the happy memories of those days.

Dotonbori SentimentTendō Yoshimi

[MV] Yoshimi Tendo / Dotonbori (Tonbori) Ninjō (Full Ver.)

Yoshimi Tendo’s “Dotonbori Ninjō” retains a timeless charm even after many years since its release.

Since it came out in 1985, its pleasant melody and lyrics have captured the hearts of many listeners, and with sales exceeding 800,000 copies, the song truly stands as a masterpiece of enka.

It’s perfect for karaoke—while evoking the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era, it resonates with those around you and gets the conversation flowing.

For women in their seventies in particular, it may well be a song of their youth.

The lyrics, richly reflecting Osaka’s scenery, make you feel as if you can sense the winds of the era.

TouchIwasaki Yoshimi

Touch / Yoshimi Iwasaki / Full-size / With lyrics

An anime theme song that captures the bittersweetness of youth was released in March 1985.

It’s a wonderful track featuring Yoshimi Iwasaki’s clear, transparent vocals and a melody that resonates deeply.

The lyrics convey the feelings of a girl in love with her childhood friend, leaving a lasting impression with its sweet, heartrending portrayal of adolescence.

The song drew major attention as the opening theme for the anime Touch and reached No.

12 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It has also become widely used as a cheer song for high school baseball, a staple performed in the stands.

With a melody everyone can hum along to, it’s a perfect choice for karaoke with friends.

Woman from KoiwaKouzuki Sanae, Kouzuki Reika

Woman from Koiwa

Kogetsu Sanae and Kogetsu Reika’s “Koiwa no Onna” is a standout track released in February 2024.

Its passionate melody and powerful vocals leave a strong impression, and the lyrics—depicting the scenery and people of Koiwa—carry a touch of humor.

The song blends wistfulness with nostalgia to create a rich, evocative piece with a charmingly retro feel.

It’s great for karaoke, and older fans of Showa-era kayōkyoku will likely enjoy it as well.

Be sure to give it a listen.

Morning of PartingPedoro & Kapurishasu

Morning of Parting

A song by Pedro & Capricious that depicts a farewell with a loved one.

The lyrics, filled with deep sorrow and poignancy, resonate in the heart.

Released in October 1971 as their debut single, it became a classic that has since been covered by many artists.

It’s perfect for reflecting on memories with someone special or for feeling nostalgic at karaoke.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing at ease.