Karaoke songs you’ll want to sing for men in their 70s: Enka and nostalgic Showa-era pop

Song of Seeing Spring OffNoguchi Goro

Farewell to Spring – Goro Noguchi

This is a famed song by Goro Noguchi that gently expresses delicate emotions in a springtime love story.

With an elegant voice, it tenderly embraces the bittersweet feelings of young people parting as the warm spring weather arrives.

Its beautiful melody and lyrical words resonate deeply in our hearts.

Released in December 1978, the song carefully portrays a poignant love story.

It’s a piece you can sing together with older adults, sharing memories while reflecting on farewells and new encounters with those dear to you.

Parting at 22kaze

Parting at 22 / Kaze (with lyrics)

The debut song by the folk duo Kaze is a heartwarming classic, as gentle as the spring sunshine.

The lyrics vividly portray the pure love and parting of youth, while the tender acoustic guitar melody weaves a beautiful harmony.

Since its release in 1975, it has been covered by many artists and even adapted into a film by director Nobuhiko Obayashi in 2007, remaining beloved across generations.

In NHK’s “SukiUta — Kouhaku Everyone’s Survey,” it ranked 71st for the White Team.

It’s a perfect song for savoring slowly when you want to bask in nostalgic memories, and it could also spark lively conversations among older listeners about their experiences from back in the day.

Ah, Ueno StationIzawa Hachirō

Ah, Ueno Station — Hachiro Izawa

Since its release in May 1964, Hachiro Izawa’s emotionally rich song depicting Ueno Station—which welcomed many young people through group employment—has been a source of comfort for those living away from their hometowns.

As the terminus of the Tohoku Main Line, Ueno Station has watched over young people coming to Tokyo with dreams and hopes in their hearts.

This work embodies both thoughts of family and expectations for a new life.

In 2003, a monument to the song was erected in front of Ueno Station’s Hirokoji Exit, and since 2013 it has also been used as the departure melody.

Why not sing along and indulge in fond memories together? Conversations with those who remember that era are sure to flow naturally.

May you enjoy a heartwarming moment in the gentle warmth of spring.

You shouldn’t, but you do.Satoi Ito to Happī & Burū

You shouldn’t, but you do.

A classic that sings of the bittersweet love of the Showa era.

Released in June 1979, it is a signature song by Toshii Ito and Happy & Blue.

It became a long-selling hit through 1980 and won the Wired Music Award at the 12th Japan Cable Radio Awards.

On TBS’s “The Best Ten,” it stayed in the Top 10 for 11 consecutive weeks.

The lyrics, which depict the pain of heartbreak and feelings of self-denial, resonated with many listeners.

When singing it at karaoke, let yourself flow with the relaxed tempo and pour your innermost feelings into your performance.

draft (cold air seeping through gaps)Sugi Ryōtarō

draft (cold air seeping through gaps)

A signature song by Ryotaro Sugi, whose lyrics—rich with profound views on life and warm hope—resonate deeply.

Released in October 1976, it set a record by staying on the Oricon singles chart for 147 weeks.

Used as the ending theme for the NHK period drama Toyama no Kin-san, it is a song etched in many hearts.

Singing about overcoming life’s hardships and finding happiness, this piece likely resonates strongly with the life experiences of older listeners.

When you sing it at karaoke, try recalling your own memories and sing with a relaxed heart.

You’re sure to have a wonderful time.

I’m appearing under my former name.Kobayashi Akira

Appearing under my former name: Akira Kobayashi

While Akira Kobayashi dominated his era through his film appearances, he also released numerous hit songs, including “Dynamite ga 150-ton.” In particular, “Mukashi no Namae de Deteimasu,” released in 1975, is a work that lets you fully savor the signature ‘Akira-bushi’ style that forms his foundation.

Although it went largely unnoticed for a time, thanks to his steady efforts it surged to become a long-selling hit in 1977.

His powerful singing voice will surely evoke memories of youthful days.

Why not liven up your karaoke time with its heartfelt melody?

Sōemonchō Bluesheiwa katsuji to daakuhosu

Sōemonchō Blues — Katsuji Heiwa and The Dark Horse

“Sōemonchō Blues” by Katsuji Heiwa and Dark Horse is a nostalgic hit released in December 1972.

Based on Kenji Kitahara’s classic original, one of its charms is Heiwa’s singing, which reflects his background as a rōkyoku (narrative singing) performer.

Over time, it has become a karaoke staple, and for male listeners in their 70s, it’s a precious song that revives scenes from their youth.

It’s perfect for reminiscing while feeling the breeze of your hometown.

Be sure to sing it at karaoke and enjoy a wonderful time!