Cheering songs recommended for people in their 60s: classic and popular Japanese hits

Sakura, flutterSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Sakura, Hirari [Official Visualizer]

A heartwarming message song by Southern All Stars that portrays a gentle light of hope, themed around cherry blossoms shining in the spring sunshine.

Through the fleeting yet beautiful cherry blossoms, it tenderly sings of loss, rebirth, and wishes for the future.

The melody is as light as a spring breeze, filled with a warmth that seems to stay close to the listener’s heart.

Released digitally on January 1, 2025, this work was unveiled as the lead single from the album “THANK YOU SO MUCH.” The gently flowing acoustic guitar and soft synthesizer tones create a pleasant atmosphere that evokes the arrival of spring.

Whether you need a moment to breathe in the midst of busy days or are about to take a new step forward, it will surely become a source of comfort for your heart.

WON’T BE LONGBaburugamu Burazāzu

Bubblegum Brothers “WON’T BE LONG” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A track marked by an irresistibly catchy, upbeat groove and a festival-like, uplifting rhythm.

Inspired by the Awa Odori dance, its forward-looking message—filled with a powerful resolve to give your all for someone—really strikes a chord.

It features the Bubblegum Brothers’ signature breezy sound and approachable lyrics.

Released in August 1990, it initially drew little attention, but after being broadcast on a TV program in March 1991, it exploded in popularity and became a million-seller.

In 2006, it was also covered by EXILE and Kumi Koda.

It’s an encouraging anthem that gives energy and courage—especially recommended for those worn out by work or daily life.

It’s also perfect for livening up a karaoke session with friends.

You’re My Only Shinin’ StarNagayama Miho

You’re My Only Shinin’ Star

It’s a romantic ballad that beautifully portrays a moonlit scene.

The song weaves feelings of a miraculous encounter and a vow of eternal love together with a gentle melody.

Under the starry sky, it’s a graceful tale that will resonate in your heart, making you want to listen while thinking of the one you love.

Miho Nakayama’s clear, translucent voice tenderly embraces an emotionally rich world that spins a story of everlasting love.

Released in February 1988 and crafted by Toshiki Kadomatsu, the piece reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It also left a strong impression as an insert song for the TBS drama “Mama wa Idol!” starring Nakayama, and won the Japan Record Awards Gold Prize.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to step away from the busyness of daily life and savor your gratitude for someone special.

Why not spend a calm moment immersing yourself in this heartwarming, gentle love story?

Lullaby of the Holy MothersIwasaki Hiromi

Lullaby of the Holy Mothers

A ballad wrapped in motherly gentleness and calm, one that stays close to wounded hearts.

With Hiromi Iwasaki’s majestic melody and powerful vocals, it’s a precious song that resonates deeply.

Comparing men to warriors and depicting people fighting in the city, it conveys a warmth that feels like being enveloped in maternal love.

Released in May 1982, this song was chosen as the first ending theme for “Tuesday Suspense Theater” and reached No.

1 on the Oricon Singles Chart.

It also won the Grand Prize at the 13th Japan Kayō Awards.

It’s a classic you’ll want to listen to when you need to heal a tired heart or encourage someone.

Sneaker BluesKondō Masahiko

Sneaker Blues - Masahiko Kondo

A classic song that strikingly combines poignancy and strength, depicting the breakup of lovers who raced through the season of youth.

With fond memories of time spent together in matching sneakers held close to their hearts, the pure emotions of young love overflow in a stirring melody and vocals that many listeners will find relatable.

Released in December 1980 as Masahiko Kondo’s debut single and used as the theme song for the film “Youth Graffiti: Sneaker Blues,” it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

It’s a track that resonates even more deeply now with nostalgic memories as the years have passed.

Perfect for reliving past romances and getting fired up at karaoke with friends.

metropoliskurisutaru kingu

metropolis

This song delicately portrays the feelings of people pursuing their dreams.

Released in November 1979, it dominated the top of the charts for six consecutive weeks from February to March of the following year, becoming a million-seller.

It also served as Crystal King’s re-debut single, born from the spirit of challenge and resolve of men from Kyushu.

Many will surely relate to the protagonist, who leaves his hometown to face destiny in an unfamiliar city.

An English gospel-style arrangement was used in a Honda CR-V commercial, and the song continues to be loved across generations.

It’s a track that gives you a push when you want to strive toward your dreams.

The Old Man’s SeaMuraki Kenkichi

Oyaji no Umi by Muraki Kenkichi

You never really know where fate will change and a hit song will be born.

Oyaji no Umi was a self-produced release of about 500 copies in 1972.

Naturally, it didn’t sell nationwide, and even the artist had practically forgotten it existed.

But starting in 1977, it began to gain traction through the cable music service in Kushiro, Hokkaido, and by 1979 it had become a huge hit, selling 1.4 million copies.

With its unadorned vocals and lyrics that liken the boundless sea and sky to a father, the song may resonate with people who have come to appreciate their parents, stirring a desire to become that kind of person themselves.