RAG MusicRecreation
Lovely senior life

[For men in their 70s] A collection of easy-to-sing songs even for people who are tone-deaf

Men in their 70s likely grew up listening to enka and kayōkyoku in childhood, and folk music and rock ’n’ roll in their youth, didn’t they?

In this article, we’ll introduce songs recommended for men in their 70s who experienced that whirlwind music scene in real time.

Rather than simply listing famous tunes, we’ve selected tracks that are easy to sing even for those who struggle with pitch.

We’ve also included professional vocal insights, so be sure to read to the end!

[For men in their 70s] A collection of easy-to-sing songs even for the tone-deaf (21–30)

If you fall in loveHashi Yukio

Alongside Kazuo Funaki and Teruhiko Saigō, Yukio Hashi was an enka singer beloved by many as one of the “Gosanke” (the Big Three).

Many men in their 70s probably heard his songs often when they were teenagers.

Among Hashi’s works, a particularly easy one to sing that I recommend is Koi o Suru Nara (If You Fall in Love).

Compared to his other songs, this piece shows relatively little of enka’s distinctive flavor; if anything, it leans more toward rock.

As a result, the advanced enka technique of kobushi (melismatic ornamentation) doesn’t appear much.

If you want a simple, rock-tinged enka song to sing, give this track a try.

Summer MemoriesSakushi: Ema Akiko / Sakkyoku: Nakata Yoshinao

Summer Memories | With Lyrics | When summer comes, I remember | A lyrical song for adults / Radio Kayō | Romanized: JP subs / English: EN subs
Summer MemoriesSakushi: Ema Akiko / Sakkyoku: Nakata Yoshinao

This is a beloved song that weaves nostalgic memories set in Oze.

Written by Shoko Ema with music by Yoshinao Nakada, it is a beautiful Japanese art song that delicately portrays scenes of nature and brings us the dreams and hopes lost after the war.

Since its first broadcast on NHK Radio in June 1949, its gentle melody and heartwarming lyrics have left a deep impression on many listeners.

It was sung by Ichiro Fujiyama in 1954 and featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1962, making it cherished across generations.

Rooted in Japan’s musical culture for many years, it was selected in 2006 for the Agency for Cultural Affairs’ “100 Best Japanese Songs.” Humming its melody, imbued with love for abundant nature, brings nostalgic landscapes to mind.

Shall we bask together in the pleasant memories of summer?

[For men in their 70s] A collection of easy-to-sing songs even for the tone-deaf (31–40)

Grandfather’s Clock

Nursery rhyme “Grandfather’s Clock”
Grandfather's Clock

A classic song that weaves a moving story, it tenderly captures the deep bond between a grandfather and his old clock.

Inspired by a pendulum clock Henry Clay Work encountered at a hotel in England, it was created in 1876.

Its gentle melody and heartwarming lyrics make it irresistibly singable for everyone.

Upon release, the sheet music became a smash hit in the United States, selling one million copies, and after being featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” it gained further attention through a cover by Ken Hirai.

It was adapted into a film in December 2022, drawing renewed interest.

It’s a perfect song for joyful gatherings, evoking warmth and nostalgia through the feelings for a clock that has marked time together.

The two are young.dikku mine

The famous call-and-response of “You.” “What is it?” from the song Futari wa Wakai was released in 1935 as the theme song for the film The Peeked-at Bride and became a major hit as a duet by Dick Mine, a former jazz singer, and Reiko Hoshi, a former Takarazuka Revue dancer.

Beyond being a vocalist, Dick Mine was known as a multitalented figure—guitarist, actor, lyric adapter, and arranger—who also looked after his juniors, including Frank Nagai and James Miki, and is said to have nurtured talents who later became prominent actors, such as Hitoshi Ueki and Makoto Fujita.

As a pioneer of contemporary Japanese entertainment, he can be said to have had a profound influence on later generations.

Song of the Four SeasonsSakushi sakkyoku: Araki Toyohisa

Song of the Four Seasons | With Lyrics | 100 Selected Japanese Songs | Those who love spring are people with pure hearts
Song of the Four SeasonsSakushi sakkyoku: Araki Toyohisa

Under the gentle sunshine of spring, a timeless Showa-era classic resonates deep in the heart.

In Toyohisa Araki’s work, the beauty of Japan’s four seasons and his feelings toward people are exquisitely captured within a warm melody.

Born from gratitude toward nurses during a hospital stay, this piece was introduced on Nippon Broadcasting’s “Aozora Wide,” where it received an overwhelming response, and Yoko Seri’s performance went on to become a million seller.

The tenderly drawn seasonal scenes and the deep affection for friends and family evoke a tranquil passage of time.

It’s a wonderful song that invites you to reminisce and reflect on bonds with loved ones.

Perfect for a relaxing music recreation session for seniors.

Moon over the Ruined CastleSakushi: Doi Bansui / Sakkyoku: Taki Rentarō

Moon over the Ruined Castle / Full version with easy-to-read lyric subtitles (Verses 1–4) Music: Rentaro Taki Arrangement: Kósçak Yamada Lyrics: Bansui Doi
Moon over the Ruined CastleSakushi: Doi Bansui / Sakkyoku: Taki Rentarō

A celebrated piece inspired by the beauty of Japan’s spring was created in the Meiji era by Bansui Doi and Rentarō Taki.

Set against the ruins of a castle bathed in moonlight, it poignantly sings of the splendor of a spring banquet and the transience of a changing world.

Revived along with fond memories, the work is frequently used in films and dramas, and its emotive melody continues to linger in many hearts.

Cherished and passed down through a long history, this piece allows listeners to experience rich sensitivity and deep sentiment within a gently flowing sense of time.

As soothing music for a quiet night, we hope you will enjoy it together with us.

Spring somewhereSakushi: Momota Soji / Sakkyoku: Kusagawa Shin

Somewhere Spring is | With Lyrics | Somewhere Spring is Being Born | Nursery Rhymes and Songs for Adults | English: EN subs
Spring somewhereSakushi: Momota Soji / Sakkyoku: Kusagawa Shin

A beloved song that gently portrays the arrival of spring was born in March 1923.

Created by Soji Momota and Shin Kusakawa, the piece delicately captures subtle changes in nature—like the sound of water beginning to flow, birdsong, and the breath of budding plants.

Its calm, warm melody is filled with the joy and hope of spring, and it has often been featured on NHK’s educational programs.

It is recommended for music recreation sessions that spark nostalgic conversations about the past or allow people to share the feeling of spring’s arrival together.

Like a pleasant spring breeze, it will help you spend a gentle, peaceful moment.