[Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that get everyone excited. Songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke.

Northern fishing groundsKitajima Saburō

Northern Fishing Grounds - Saburo Kitajima

Set against the harsh fishing grounds of Hokkaido, this enka masterpiece portrays the pride and resolve of fishermen.

The image of men braving raging waves and biting cold while thinking of tomorrow’s catch is deeply moving.

Its powerful melody and Saburo Kitajima’s richly expressive vocals brilliantly capture the fishermen’s way of life.

Released in June 1986, the song won the Best Vocal Performance at the 28th Japan Record Awards.

It’s recommended for older listeners as a piece that recalls life experience and pride in one’s work.

Kamonegi OndoHirano Remi

Kamonegi Ondo (Leek-and-Duck Dance) — Remi Hirano, 1972

A delightful comic song that humorously portrays the back-and-forth between a hostess and her patrons, set in a glamorous Ginza club.

Remi Hirano’s distinctive vocals pair perfectly with the lively ondo rhythm, lifting listeners’ spirits.

Released in November 1972 as Hirano’s fourth single, the song was later covered by multiple artists, including Leo Nakagawa and Yoko Nagisa.

Framed by the neon-lit nights of Ginza, it uses animal metaphors to depict the exchanges between men and women, offering a symbolic snapshot of the era.

It’s a track brimming with laughter and nostalgia that can liven up parties and gatherings across generations.

Cotton MoodAnri

Cotton Mood

Doesn’t this timeless song, which breezily heralds the arrival of spring, bring back nostalgic memories of your youth? Released by Anri in April 1981, this piece beautifully captures the season of open blue skies with its light melody and fashionable lyrics.

The upbeat words convey a sense of freedom and the thrill of romance.

It was also used in commercials for Nivea-Kao’s cologne and for Nisshinbo, making it a tune beloved by many.

Its rhythm is so delightful that you’ll naturally want to clap along when the music starts.

How about spending a moment singing it together with fellow seniors and letting cherished memories blossom in conversation?

Marilyn Monroe No ReturnNozaka Akiyuki

Marilyn Monroe No Return

With a voice tinged with heartbreak and resignation that evokes the end of the world, this classic has been deeply etched into many listeners’ hearts.

Its weighty, socially reflective poetry blends beautifully with a chanson-like, elegant melody line, crafting a singular soundscape.

Interweaving Buddhist imagery and the changing seasons, Nosaka Akiyuki’s vocal performance is breathtaking as it quietly speaks of life’s impermanence and the cycle of rebirth.

Released by Nippon Columbia in 1971 and included on the album “Nosaka Uta Taizen I: Singing Sakurai Jun,” the song was also featured in the 1973 film “Contemporary Gangsters: The Three Blood-Cherry Brothers.” It’s a recommended piece for those seeking to touch a deeper truth of life, or to quietly reflect on their hearts on a still night.

Open! TulipAkiyama Kanpei

Open, Tulip# Kanpei Hazama: 'Speaking of Showa-era pastimes, it's got to be pachinko!' (Japanese song)

A signature satirical comedy song symbolizing pachinko culture, this is Kanpei Hazama’s hallmark work released in August 1975.

Vividly depicting Showa-era entertainment—like the Warship March playing in pachinko parlors of the time, hand-cranked machines, and the smoky, permissive atmosphere inside—the song reached a peak of No.

25 on the Oricon charts and became a massive hit with over one million copies sold.

In December of the same year, it was also chosen as the theme song for the Nikkatsu film “Wet Lust: Open, Tulip,” enriching the world of director Tatsumi Kumashiro’s work.

Its bright, sprightly melody and Hazama’s distinctive vocals create a humor that’s sure to liven up parties and family gatherings alike.