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

Beach of MemoriesZa Wairudowanzu

The Wild Ones - Shore of Memories (with lyrics)

Beloved as a heartwarming song with the refreshing tone of a 12-string guitar and gentle lyrics depicting memories by the seaside, this track is a hallmark of the Group Sounds (GS) boom.

Created by members Shigeki Torizuka and Kunihiko Kase, it was released in November 1966 and sold over one million copies.

It was also used as the opening theme for the TV Asahi drama “Private Railway Police 97” (Shitetsu Ensen 97 Bunsho), remaining in the memories of many.

Its bright, transparent melody and wonderful lyrics that sing of beautiful summer scenes and youth make it perfect for humming along with friends and family.

It’s also easy to sing with gusto at karaoke thanks to its breezy feel, sure to spark lively reminiscences.

loveMatsuyama Chiharu

Koi / Chiharu Matsuyama (with lyrics)

A ballad by Chiharu Matsuyama, a folk singer who represents Hokkaido.

Centered on acoustic guitar with a gentle tone and a clear, crystalline voice, it’s a masterpiece that resonates in the heart.

Released in January 1980, this work, though calm in tempo, beautifully conveys feelings of wistfulness, loneliness, and deep love for someone dear.

Its popularity spread from regional areas to the entire country, and its simple yet emotionally rich melody won wide empathy.

The warm vocals and touching lyrics are full of charm that makes anyone want to hum along at least once.

At karaoke, you can take your time reminiscing with friends and enjoy it to your heart’s content.

Northern SpringSen Masao

Northern Spring

This is one of Masao Sen’s signature songs, whose emotionally rich lyrics and beautiful melody resonate deeply.

Released in April 1977, it became a massive hit with total sales exceeding three million copies.

It was performed many times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, making it one of the most frequently featured songs on the program in the 20th century.

Depicting the nostalgia of someone who has left their hometown, the piece delicately portrays the protagonist’s feelings as the arrival of spring brings memories of home.

With numerous covers in Chinese and Thai, the song is widely loved across Asia.

Why not sing it together, holding close the nostalgic scenery of your hometown and memories of your loved ones?

It was rainy again in Nagasaki today.Uchiyamada Hiroshi to Cool Five

Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five “It Was Rainy Again in Nagasaki Today” OFFICIAL Lyric Video

A masterpiece that stands as a monument of mood kayō (Japanese mood music), deeply etched in many people’s hearts.

Its beautiful melody infused with sorrow and wistfulness, along with Kiyoshi Maekawa’s richly expressive vocals, leaves a strong impression.

Evoking the emotional scenery of Kyushu and the ache of a broken heart, the song lingers deeply with listeners.

Released in February 1969, this single marked the major-label debut of Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon charts and won the New Artist Award at that year’s Japan Record Awards.

It was also featured in a joint commercial by Nagasaki Prefecture and JF Nagasaki (the fisheries cooperative), contributing to regional promotion.

The song has continued to be covered by many artists, including Hibari Misora and Sayuri Ishikawa.

It’s a track you’ll want to enjoy at karaoke with dear friends, wrapped in fond memories.

Winter LightningArisu

Alice – Winter Lightning

This masterpiece, featuring a powerful and emotionally rich vocal performance, was released as a single in November 1977.

Showcasing Alice’s full appeal, the song masterfully fuses folk and rock.

While painting a refreshing winter scene, it warmly sings of the subtle emotions everyone experiences.

A classic that reached No.

2 on the Oricon charts, it was also used as an insert song in TV dramas and films, and is known as one of Alice’s signature works.

Its enduring charm remains undimmed, evoking memories of time spent with loved ones and nostalgic landscapes.

It’s a perfect choice to request when you’re taking it easy at karaoke with friends.

America BridgeYamakawa Yutaka

Set against Tokyo’s Ebisu Minami Bridge, this gem of a song poignantly portrays the heartache of lovers who have parted amid the hustle and bustle of the city.

Yutaka Yamakawa’s powerful yet emotive vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

While quietly observing the lives of city dwellers, his moving performance captivates and stirs the heart.

Released in February 1998, the song was chosen as the theme for the fifth season of the TBS drama “Inochi no Genba Kara,” and it won the Grand Prize at the 31st Japan Lyricist Awards.

He also appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen that year and the following year.

It’s a wonderful piece that can be sung at an easy, relaxed pace, evoking fond memories.

Please enjoy a peaceful moment accompanied by Yutaka Yamakawa’s warm, heartfelt voice.

Oh, sake!Yoshi Ikuzo

Oh, sake!

A soul-stirring song that awakens nostalgic memories.

Known as one of Ikuzo Yoshi’s signature works, it was released in 1988.

He also appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, moving the hearts of many.

The lyrics, which express life’s joys and sorrows through the lens of alcohol, resonate deeply when combined with Yoshi’s distinctive vocal timbre.

The words feel as if conversing with sake itself, offering comfort to seniors who have lived through many experiences.

Sing it at karaoke, and you may find yourself reflecting on life with your peers and discovering hope for tomorrow.

Why not join voices together and sing, savoring the flavors of life?