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

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu

Miagete Goran Yoru No Hoshi Wo

Kyu Sakamoto’s signature song Ue o Muite Arukou (Sukiyaki), a defining piece of the Showa era, still warms people’s hearts today.

Loved across generations since its 1963 release, this song can be said to have encouraged postwar Japan.

Its lyrics portray young people who work by day and head to their studies at night, giving courage to everyone striving hard.

It carries both a nostalgia that recalls one’s youth and a sense of strength for living in the present.

Like stars shining in the moonlit sky, it is a song that continues to shine unchanged—such is the timeless beauty of this classic.

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.

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.

Blue Light Yokohamaishida ayumi

Blue Light Yokohama

Here’s a timeless classic that colors our happiest moments: Ayumi Ishida’s “Blue Light Yokohama.” Released in 1968, the song continues to captivate listeners with a charm that never fades.

Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics awaken the sweet, bittersweet memories of youth.

In particular, the atmosphere created by Kyohei Tsutsumi’s composition still feels fresh today.

It’s the kind of song that brings a smile when you listen together.

Doesn’t it conjure up nostalgic scenes of Japan? An emotional and soothing track.

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.

As time goes bysawada kenji

As Time Goes By — Kenji Sawada

This is the theme song from the 1975 drama “Akuma no Yōna Aitsu,” starring Kenji Sawada.

Those who watched the series at the time may find it nostalgic.

The song portrays a deep sense of life’s melancholy and the quiet act of surrendering to the flow of time together with a loved one.

When you want to push forward but your heart can’t keep up, its melody doesn’t force encouragement; instead, it gently stays by your side—a tune that truly resonates.

Listening to this piece while reflecting on the days you’ve walked through would be wonderful.