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

Ozasiki SongMatsuo Kazuko Mahina Sutāzu

Ozasiki Song

A gem of a classic in which a nostalgic, quintessentially Japanese melody blends beautifully with the sprightly Dodonpa rhythm.

Released in 1964 by Kazuko Matsuo with Hiroshi Wada and the Mahina Stars, it became a massive hit, selling over 1.5 million copies that same year.

Set in Kyoto’s Pontocho district, this highly narrative song portrays a fleeting romance between a geisha and a married man, expressing pure love and poignant resignation with exquisite sensitivity.

It was adapted into a film by Shochiku in February 1965 and won support across generations.

It’s a tune everyone can enjoy together—humming along, clapping in time with the rhythm.

Its catchy melody sticks in your head, making you want to sing along.

Brother ShipsToba Ichirō

Ichiro Toba “Kyodai-bune (Brothers’ Boat)” (Official Audio)

Sung by Enka heavyweight Ichirō Toba, “Kyōdai-bune” (Brother Ship) was his 1982 debut single and continues to be loved by many.

Composed by Toru Funamura with lyrics by Tetsurō Hoshino, this classic powerfully depicts the bond between brothers who make their living at sea.

Selling 290,000 copies on the Oricon charts, it’s a song packed with memories of youth.

Sing it at karaoke, and the passionate scenes of that era will come rushing back—sure to fire up everyone listening!

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!

The Camellia Sasanqua InnŌkawa Eisaku

The Camellia Sasanqua Inn

Eisaku Okawa has captivated many fans with his warm voice and emotionally rich singing.

Among his works, “Sazanka no Yado,” released in 1982, became an unforgettable major hit and a classic that colored the karaoke scene of the 1980s.

With its bittersweet yet beautiful melody and lyrics depicting deep romance, this piece is sure to evoke memories of youth for listeners in their seventies.

The imagery comparing the complex emotions of love to red flowers is especially striking, reviving feelings long tucked away in the depths of the heart.

This song is a perfect fit for those who carry the subtleties of adult love within them.