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

Life won’t give (it) to me / Unyielding lifeSegawa Eiko

Eiko Segawa - Inochi Kurenai - Enka Hyakusen

Eiko Segawa’s “Inochi Kurenai” is a masterpiece that deeply portrays the bond between husband and wife.

Its lyrics, which weave a fateful love tied together even before birth, resonate with the heart.

The image of facing hardships together and supporting each other hand in hand conveys the strength to overcome life’s trials.

Released in 1986, the song initially received a lukewarm response, but its popularity gradually grew, eventually becoming a massive hit with 1.7 million copies sold.

Paired with Segawa’s captivating voice, it’s a song that, when sung at karaoke, can convey the importance of family bonds not only to those of the same generation but also to younger listeners.

Good-bye, My LoveAn Ruisu

Ann Lewis - Goodbye My Love

Good-Bye My Love is filled with melodies that colored the Showa era and pierce the heart.

Ann Lewis’s vocals radiate the same charm they had when the song was released in 1974.

Even decades after its release, the lyrical world remains unfaded, where bittersweetness and warmth coexist, inviting us into the past as if riding a time machine.

The reason this song remains evergreen seems to go beyond its lyrics that depict pure romantic feelings.

Perhaps it spins a new story in the heart of each listener, entwined with their own memories.

lover; mistress; extramarital partnerTeresa Ten

Aijin

Teresa Teng has many songs with adult themes, and among them the classic “Lover” is especially known for its mature, bittersweet character.

As one of her signature works, it’s still frequently sung at karaoke today.

While the song features a richly expressive vocal line, its range is surprisingly narrow, staying mostly in the mid or mid-high register.

The development of the melody is also typical of kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), making it a very singable piece, especially for those of a certain age.

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koinobori (carp streamers)Monbushō shōka

Koinobori | With Lyrics | Waves of roof tiles and waves of clouds

Beloved as a Ministry of Education shoka (school song), this piece gracefully expresses both the grandeur of the carp streamers displayed for the Boys’ Festival (Tango no Sekku) and the wish for children’s happy growth.

Included in the 1913 publication “Jinjō Shōgaku Shōka, Grade Five,” the song, set in F major, harmonizes a powerful melody with a refined sense of the season.

It continues to be cherished and sung by contemporary musicians, including arrangements by Kiyoe Yoshioka.

Its cheerful atmosphere and warm, seasonable tone make it perfect for older adults who want to enjoy a pleasant springtime moment.

It can also be a cue to hum along with grandchildren or to fondly recall days gone by.

Miracle of LoveHide to Rozanna

Miracle of Love

With their gentle, soul-soothing vocals, Hide and Rosanna have healed the hearts of many.

Released in 1968 as their debut single, this song initially drew little attention, but its popularity surged a few months later.

It ultimately became a massive hit, selling over 800,000 copies.

The lyrics, which express deep love for a former partner even after parting ways, resonated with countless listeners and continue to be cherished across generations.

The song paints bittersweet yet beautiful scenes—nostalgia for the profile of a lover walking alone at twilight, and the hope of being loved once again someday.

It’s a perfect track for when you want to bask in fond memories or reaffirm your feelings for someone dear.

The arrival of springKoyanagi Rumiko

Arrival of Spring Rumiko Koyanagi

This song, which evokes the arrival of spring, is captivating for Rumiko Koyanagi’s clear, translucent singing voice.

It begins with a scene of walking along the seaside with a lover, and the lyrics depicting warm interactions with family are deeply moving.

Released in February 1973, it was a popular hit that reached No.

4 on the Oricon charts.

Its gentle melody and richly scenic lyrics are sure to stir up nostalgic memories.

How about spending a spring afternoon listening by the window and reflecting on memories with someone precious? It will surely be a heartwarming, wonderful time.

Crossing Amagi PassIshikawa Sayuri

Crossing Amagi Pass

Sayuri Ishikawa’s “Amagi-goe” is a classic released in 1986.

Its lyrics, which depict deep love and complex human relationships, resonate deeply.

The heroine’s burden of love and inner conflict are expressed with rich emotion, drawing you in before you know it.

It has been performed many times on the Kohaku Uta Gassen and continues to be loved by many.

It’s also a popular karaoke song, so it’s great to sing with friends.

Or you might enjoy listening alone on a quiet night.

It’s a heartwarming song that lets you bask in nostalgic memories and thoughts of someone dear.