Energizing songs recommended for men in their 70s: A roundup of nostalgic power tracks

Hello from countries around the worldMinami Haruo

Haruo Minami, 'Hello from the Countries of the World'

A classic song that sings of the Japanese spirit.

Released in 1967, this piece drew attention as the theme song for Expo ’70 in Osaka.

Haruo Minami’s cheerful smile and beautiful voice left a strong impression, and the single became a massive hit, selling 1.4 million copies.

The song is notable for its lyrics that celebrate bonds among people around the world and sing of hope for the future.

It was also used as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, making it beloved across generations.

When everyone raises their voices together to sing it, it’s sure to fill you with energy.

Night of IomanteItō Hisao

Night of Iomante

One of Hisao Ito’s signature songs, “Night of Iomante,” is a piece themed on the Ainu ritual “iomante.” With lyrics by Kazuo Kikuta and music by Yuji Koseki, it’s a masterpiece by a golden duo.

Its powerful rhythm and melody are a perfect match for Ito’s impassioned vocals.

The lyrics evoke the mystery and romance of Ainu culture.

Since its 1950 release, it has been covered by many singers and has become a timeless standard loved across generations.

Sing it together at large gatherings and you’re sure to feel a strong sense of unity and liven up the event!

There’s always tomorrowSakamoto Kyu

Ashita Ga Arusa

Kyu Sakamoto’s “Ashita ga Aru sa” is a song that celebrates the importance of keeping your head up and moving forward without fearing failure.

It comically portrays the bashful, hesitant feelings of wanting to approach a woman you often see but not being able to do it well, set to a catchy, sing-along melody.

Loved for decades since its 1963 release, the song returned to the spotlight in 2000 when it was used in a Coca-Cola GEORGIA commercial.

Although the lyrics depict things not going smoothly, the positive message—“there’s always tomorrow”—lifts your spirits.

Give it a listen when you need a boost and draw energy for the day ahead.

Always keep your dreamsHashi Yukio, Yoshinaga Sayuri

Always keep your dreams

Itsudemo Yume o (Always Carry a Dream), released by Yukio Hashi and Sayuri Yoshinaga in September 1962, is a duet that sings of the importance of holding on to your dreams no matter what difficulties you face.

The song continues to be loved by many to this day.

It won the Japan Record Award and was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name, achieving an astonishing total of 2.6 million copies sold at the time.

It is a timeless masterpiece that inspires hope and courage—sure to bring back fond memories of youthful days and lift the spirits of those in their seventies.

It’s Tough Being a ManAtsumi Kiyoshi

It's Tough Being a Man

Atsumi Kiyoshi’s “Otoko wa Tsurai yo” is a classic song that celebrates a man who overcomes life’s hardships with strong will.

Written as the theme for the film series that began in 1969, it has remained beloved by many ever since.

Atsumi’s warm voice gently wraps the pain and sorrow that everyone experiences in life.

Listening to “Otoko wa Tsurai yo” can make you feel that, no matter how hard things get, you can keep your hope and move forward.

It’s the perfect song for times when you’re weary of life or need a bit of courage.

Ah, there are tears in life.Satomi Kôtarô, Yokouchi Masashi

Ah, Life Has Tears (Mito Kōmon) by Kōtarō Satomi and Tadashi Yokouchi

A classic from the Showa era filled with nostalgia and hope.

Released in 1973, it has been beloved as the theme song for the long-running period drama Mito Komon.

The powerful vocals of Kotaro Satomi and Tadashi Yokouchi brilliantly express the joys and hardships of life.

Many listeners will likely relate to the lyrics that trace life’s ups and downs.

The majestic arrangement, woven from traditional Japanese instruments and brass, evokes the very rise and fall of life itself.

Re-recorded many times alongside the drama, this piece continues to be cherished across generations.

It’s a song that gives you courage when you reach life’s turning points or when your heart feels uncertain.

As time goes bysawada kenji

As Time Goes By — Kenji Sawada

This is the theme song from the 1975 drama “Akuma no Yōna Aitsu,” starring Kenji Sawada.

Those who watched the series at the time may find it nostalgic.

The song portrays a deep sense of life’s melancholy and the quiet act of surrendering to the flow of time together with a loved one.

When you want to push forward but your heart can’t keep up, its melody doesn’t force encouragement; instead, it gently stays by your side—a tune that truly resonates.

Listening to this piece while reflecting on the days you’ve walked through would be wonderful.