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

youthMorita Kōichi to Toppugyaran

Kouichi Morita and Top Gallant — Seishun Jidai (Youthful Days)

“Seishun Jidai,” released by Koichi Morita and Top Gallant in 1976, is a classic whose lyrics about the bittersweet and complicated feelings of youth resonate deeply with listeners.

The line “In the very midst of youth, it’s nothing but words that drive thorns into your heart” skillfully captures the anguish of adolescence.

It became a million-seller within six months of release and earned a spot in the 28th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 1977.

Since then, it has been covered by many artists and continues to be loved across generations.

Why not belt it out at karaoke as a song that colors both nostalgic memories and the present? It’s sure to warm your heart.

LetterYuki Saori

Tegami

Released in 1970, Saori Yuki’s “Tegami” is a classic known for its deeply moving, beautiful melody and heartrending lyrics.

Centered on the theme of parting, the song drew a huge response, including spending six consecutive weeks at the top of the Oricon chart.

The lyrics, which express both a powerful love—“Even if I die, I want to live with you”—and a firm resolve—“We release the little bird we raised together”—resonate with many listeners.

Yuki’s clear, translucent voice further enhances the song’s appeal.

For older listeners, it may serve as a prompt to look back on nostalgic memories.

Why not listen to it quietly, in a leisurely moment?

Yearning for youFuranku Nagai

Yearning for you

Frank Nagai’s singing voice richly conveys the emotions of a bittersweet love.

Released in 1961, this song won the 3rd Japan Record Award that same year and became a huge hit, selling 550,000 copies.

It was also cherished for many years as the theme song of ABC Radio’s popular program “Kayō Daizenshū.” It’s perfect for listening alone on a quiet night, and also recommended for humming along with someone special.

Why not spend a heartwarming moment, wrapped in nostalgia and fond memories?

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?

Love RadiantMisora Hibari

Love Radiantly

Ai Sansan, released in 1986 by Hibari Misora, a singer emblematic of the Showa era, commemorated her 49th birthday and the 40th anniversary of her debut.

Among her many hits, this especially memorable song sets the subtleties of life to a gentle melody that tenderly embraces listeners’ hearts.

With each passing year, the song’s flavor deepens, and the feelings embedded in its lyrics continue to be cherished by many.

Among the numerous masterpieces Misora left behind, this work celebrates the beauty of living through the universal theme of “love,” making it a particularly recommended song for those in their 70s.

applausechiaki naomi

Naomi Chiaki / Applause [Official Audio]

Naomi Chiaki’s “Kassai” (Applause) is a classic released in 1972.

The contrast between the glamorous figure of a singer on stage and the sense of loss deep within is striking.

The imagery of the “black border” and the “white wall” vividly depicts the divide between public and private life.

The strength to keep facing forward despite deep sorrow is moving.

It’s a song that showcases Naomi Chiaki’s powerful vocals and rich emotional expression.

It’s also nice to listen while recalling its winning of the Japan Record Award at the time.

It’s great for livening up a karaoke session, but also recommended for quietly listening alone.

Its heartfelt lyrics and melody are sure to be soothing.

Journey of the Heartchūrippu

TULIP “Kokoro no Tabi” (Lyric Video)

The classic song that colored the Showa era, “Kokoro no Tabi.” In 1973, it became a huge hit for Tulip, sung in a sweet voice by guitarist Tatsuya Himeno.

It topped the Oricon charts and sold about 870,000 copies.

Its fresh, innovative structure—starting directly with the chorus—made it a staple at live shows, where audience call-and-response would ring out.

It has been widely covered and often heard in commercials as well.

An enduring masterpiece that brings back nostalgic days and makes you want to hum along even today.

Be sure to experience the charm of “Kokoro no Tabi.”