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[Karaoke] Songs That Get Men in Their 70s Fired Up! A Collection of Nostalgic Japanese Hits [2026]

There are many people in their 70s who are still active, spending their days working, enjoying hobbies, and staying on the go.

That said, health is important too, and karaoke is a great hobby to recommend.

It can help relieve stress and stimulate physical functions.

Those who are currently in their 70s spent their youth from the 1960s to the 1970s, so this article gathers nostalgic Japanese hit songs from that era—GS (Group Sounds), kayōkyoku, enka, folk, and more—for those who grew up listening to a wide variety of hits in their younger days.

These are all songs that will get the crowd going when sung by men in their 70s, so be sure to check them out!

[Karaoke] Japanese Classics That Get Men in Their 70s Fired Up! Nostalgic J-Pop Collection [2026] (31–40)

A Letter Waiting for Springyoshida takurou

Takuro Yoshida / A Letter Waiting for Spring (’79, 17th single), I'm Fine (’80, 20th single)
A Letter Waiting for Springyoshida takurou

This is a gem of a melody by Takuro Yoshida, warmly depicting a heartfelt exchange through letters that gently convey the feelings and memories of a man and a woman.

The image of two people far apart, drawing close to each other through their letters, carries a nostalgic sentiment that many have felt.

Accompanied by a calm guitar tone, the feelings of a couple trying to connect while awaiting the arrival of spring leave a lingering resonance.

Released in October 1979, it reached No.

52 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It was also included on the album “ONLY YOU 〜since coming For Life〜,” and has long been loved by many.

It’s a perfect song for those moments when you want to relax and enjoy music while looking back on memories with someone special.

The Camellia Sasanqua InnŌkawa Eisaku

[With Large Lyrics] Sazanka no Yado [Recreation]
The Camellia Sasanqua InnŌkawa Eisaku

Allow me to introduce a masterpiece of enka that portrays a bittersweet love kept secret in the heart.

EISAKU OKAWA’s single, released in August 1982, is a moving work that overlays his feelings onto the camellia blooming in winter.

The lyrics by Osamu Yoshioka and the melody by Shosuke Ichikawa blend beautifully, delicately expressing the emotions of a man swayed by an unattainable love.

Four months after its release, the song entered the Oricon Top 10 for the first time and became one of Okawa’s signature pieces.

It sold a total of 1.8 million copies and won the Long Seller Award at the 25th Japan Record Awards in 1983, also marking his first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its evocative imagery that overlaps with Japan’s beautiful winter scenery, and a voice that holds both ache and warmth, make it a perfect choice for karaoke duets or for humming along while sharing fond memories.

Swim, Taiyaki-kunShimon Masato

Oyoge! Taiyaki-kun Lyrics and Music by Hiroo Takada, Toshikazu Sase
Swim, Taiyaki-kunShimon Masato

With lively, uplifting lyrics and melody, Masato Shimon’s bright singing voice leaves a strong impression.

Its humorous world—where fish-shaped sweets set off swimming in the sea—makes for a heartwarming piece that brings a smile to anyone’s face.

Released in December 1975, the song spent 11 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

It aired on Fuji TV’s program “Hirake! Ponkikki,” generating a huge response.

The playful lyrics and light, brisk rhythm are delightful, and its catchy familiarity makes it easy for anyone to hum along.

It’s a perfect choice for cheerful recreational settings or group singing.

Add some handclaps and enjoy a warm, pleasant time together.

Shirake Bird OndoKomatsu Masao

That nostalgic song born from the TV show “Migoro! Tabegoro! Waraigoro!” Released by Masao Komatsu in 1977, this unique ondō-style tune comically shifts through the directions—south, west, north, east—while he sings.

Its lyrics satirize the then-popular notion of the “apathetic generation,” blending social irony with plenty of humor.

Known as one of Komatsu’s signature songs, it was also included on the album “Komatsu no Ooyabun.” Originating from a sketch on the show, it was promoted as a tie-in with “Migoro! Tabegoro! Waraigoro!” It’s perfect for livening up parties or karaoke.

Perhaps it’s a song that gives you the composure to laugh off life’s bitter moments.

The Longed-For Hawaii RouteHaruo Oka

Longing for the Hawaii Route — Popular Song — Nostalgic Tune
The Longed-For Hawaii Route Haruo Oka

As a classic that lit a bright light in postwar Japan, one of Haruo Oka’s signature works is beloved by many.

With its lively melody and yearning for an unseen paradise, the song was released by King Records in 1948.

Its lyrics beautifully express a longing for unknown lands and the exhilaration of setting sail, resonating deeply with people of the time.

Owing to its popularity, it was adapted into a film by Shintoho in 1950, starring Haruo Oka himself, with Hibari Misora as co-star.

It’s a tune that lets you hum along with friends and bask in wonderful memories.

Perfect for music recreation at day-service centers, it’s a classic that everyone can enjoy together.

[Karaoke] Songs That Get Men in Their 70s Fired Up! A Collection of Nostalgic Japanese Hits [2026] (41–50)

Otomi-sanKasuga Hachirō

Otomi-san, nostalgic songs, Kabuki, popular songs
Otomi-sanKasuga Hachirō

A quintessential enka classic of the Showa era, this song poignantly depicts the bittersweet fate of a man and a woman.

Based on a Kabuki play, the story artfully portrays vivid Edo-period scenery and the complex emotions of the two lovers.

Incorporating elements of Okinawan music and kachāshī, its lively rhythm paired with Hachiro Kasuga’s clear, soaring vocals creates a pleasing resonance.

Released in August 1954, it sold 400,000 copies in just four months and was later covered by many artists, including Mina Aoe and Harumi Miyako.

Evoking warm nostalgia, it’s a perfect piece for recreation—easy to sing together with cheerful handclaps.

Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenKawashima Eigo

Sake, Tears, Men and Women “Eigo Kawashima” with Lyrics
Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenKawashima Eigo

This is a classic song that portrays the bittersweetness of life that everyone has experienced.

It gently depicts the differences in emotional expression between men and women, resonating with listeners through Eigo Kawashima’s deep insight and warm voice.

Included on the album “Jinrui” (Humanity), the song was also released in 1976 as Kawashima’s solo debut and reached No.

9 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Known as the theme song for the sake brand “Kizakura,” it became a major talking point in step with the social mood of the time.

The melody is soft, and its simplicity seeps into the heart.

It’s the perfect song to enjoy at karaoke with someone special.

I hope you’ll savor it slowly, along with your fond memories.