[Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that really move you. Beloved classic Japanese hits of the past.

Let yourself go with the flow of timeTeresa Ten

Let yourself go with the flow of time

Teresa Teng, a treasure of Taiwan, sang “Toki no Nagare ni Mi wo Makase,” a smash hit from 1986.

Takashi Miki’s composition and Toyohisa Araki’s lyrics meld with Teng’s soul-stirring voice, leaving a deep imprint on many people’s memories.

It’s as if the lyrics speak directly of profound feelings for a loved one.

Listening to the song evokes the past while conveying a universal message that fits any era.

Above all, it’s a masterpiece cherished by countless artists around the world.

Even today, it reminds us—through music—of the joy of being alive.

Album of MemoriesSakushi: Masuko Toshi / Sakkyoku: Honda Tetsuma

Memory Album / Opening lyrics: ♪ Before we knew it / With easy-to-read lyrics / [Children’s Song]

Evoking a hint of spring, this song gently recounts memories from kindergarten.

It paints scenes from the changing seasons, bringing a sense of nostalgia and warmth to listeners.

Since its release in 1961, it has continued to be loved by many.

It has been featured on TV Asahi’s children’s program “Tobidase! Panpororin” and NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” making it familiar across generations.

It’s also lovely for seniors to hum along with their grandchildren.

A wonderful piece that can be enjoyed across generations while reminiscing about the past.

Forever with youKayama Yūzō

EXILE ATSUSHI / With You Forever with Yuzo Kayama (EXILE ATSUSHI LIVE TOUR 2016 “IT’S SHOW TIME!!”)

Yuzo Kayama’s signature song “Kimi to Itsumademo,” released in 1965.

It was performed on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen an impressive four times, and it remains an eternal classic continually covered by various artists.

The lyrics build upon a straightforward desire to stay by someone’s side unchanged, gently resonating with people in their seventies.

The instrumental version, familiar from Suntory’s commercials, also brings a calm, peaceful moment to the heart.

A nostalgic Showa-era song that still captivates us with undiminished charm even today—“Kimi to Itsumademo” conveys that kind of warm, enduring power.

Sometimes like a child without a motherKarumen Maki

Sometimes like a child without a mother... Carmen Maki

Terayama Shūji’s soul-stirring lyrics about life’s loneliness and struggles resonate with Carmen Maki’s clear, soaring vocals.

It’s a classic that seeps into the heart along with the sound of the waves.

Released as her debut single in 1969, it was a popular song that even led to an appearance on Kōhaku.

Many people were likely amazed by Carmen Maki’s voice when she debuted at just 17.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side when you’re carrying something in your heart.

Why not listen to it at a relaxed pace, along with your nostalgic memories? I’m sure it will soothe your soul.

Isn’t it fine as long as you’re happy?Sara Naomi

Isn't it fine as long as you're happy?

Naomi Sagara’s signature works are known for a warm singing voice that gently resonates with many listeners.

This piece is a classic that sings about the importance of cherishing one’s own happiness.

Released in July 1969, it won the Grand Prize at that year’s Japan Record Awards—the first time a female singer achieved this honor.

Tokiko Iwatani’s lyrics and Taku Izumi’s composition blend beautifully, striking a chord with a wide audience.

One of its charms is that it has been covered by various artists, including Nana Kinomi and Keisuke Kuwata.

If you listen while reflecting on your own life, you may sense a different flavor to it.

Why not spend a leisurely moment wrapped in its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody?

12th graderFunaki Kazuo

Kazuo Funaki / High School Senior

Kazuo Funaki’s “Koko San Nensei” (High School Senior), released in 1963, is a classic that poignantly and beautifully sings of a page of youth.

Its lyrics, portraying the feelings of high school students on the verge of graduation, resonated with many.

The jacket featuring Funaki in a school uniform is memorable.

It was also made into a film and became a big hit.

Set in B minor with a rumba rhythm, the song is characterized by a march-like touch.

A school building bathed in the red glow of the setting sun, voices playing in the shade of the elms, memories of folk dancing, and dreams taking flight before parting—these images bring back fond memories.

It’s a song that colors the youthful days of older generations.

Sung at karaoke, it will surely make for a moving moment.

In the Great Sky and on the Vast EarthMatsuyama Chiharu

In the Great Sky and on the Vast Earth

Chiharu Matsuyama’s “In the Great Sky and Earth” is a classic that portrays the strength to live against the majestic backdrop of Hokkaido’s nature.

Amid the vast sky and land, the resolve to seize happiness with one’s own hands resonates deeply.

Warming frozen hands and living like a wildflower—its attitude gives you courage.

Released on the 1977 album “A Song Made for You,” it has become a popular track covered by many artists.

It was also used in the soundtrack of the drama “The Ugly Duckling.” It’s recommended when you want to take a new step in life or sink into nostalgic memories.

It’s a song that lets you feel the wide world, so why not listen to it slowly while gazing out the window?