Tear-jerking songs recommended for men in their 60s: classic and popular Japanese hits

Room of BlocksFuse Akira

The Room of Building Blocks — Akira Fuse

It’s a single released by Akira Fuse in March 1974, which peaked at No.

4 on the Oricon weekly chart.

In the same year, it won the Singing Award at the Japan Record Awards, and the song was also performed at the 25th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji

Do whatever the hell you want.

A love song that strikingly portrays a man trying to keep his pride even as he’s tormented by the premonition of a breakup.

The scene of a lover packing up and leaving in the middle of the night is exquisitely rendered through Yu Aku’s delicate words and Katsuo Ono’s wistful melody.

The conflicting emotions—lingering attachment to the other and a man’s stubborn pride—intertwine, and Kenji Sawada’s sultry vocals shake the soul.

Released in May 1977, the song claimed the No.

1 spot on the Oricon weekly chart for a total of five weeks.

It went on to achieve the remarkable feat of sweeping numerous music awards that year, including the Japan Record Award.

A gem of a masterpiece that resonates deeply with those who have experienced parting with someone precious or who stand at a crossroads in life.

I want to go back to that day.Arai Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – I Want to Return to That Day (Yumi Arai The Concert with Old Friends)

A classic by Yumi Arai that poignantly sings of longing for days gone by.

Released in October 1975, this song was used as the theme for the drama “Katei no Himitsu” (Family Secrets) and became a major hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

The lyrics delicately depict lingering attachment to the past and inner conflict.

Arai’s clear, translucent vocals and the simple yet deeply moving arrangement resonate profoundly with listeners.

When you want to look back on memories with someone special, be sure to give this song a listen.

My chest hurts.Yūkadan

Yūkadan – My Chest Hurts

Yūkadan is a legendary band fronted by Atsuki Kimura, whose distinctive voice—often called an “angelic raspy voice”—leaves a lasting impression.

If you’re into blues, you almost certainly know them.

When it comes to Yūkadan’s signature songs, many people probably think of Mune ga Itai (“My Chest Hurts”).

Though it’s one of their most representative tracks and the raspy delivery can make it seem challenging, the vocal line itself is simple and easy to sing.

It really shines if you sing it at a karaoke after-party once your voice is a bit worn out.

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So sad I can’t bear itZa Fōku Kurusedāzu

“Kanashikute Yarikirenai” by The Folk Crusaders

This is the second single released by The Folk Crusaders in March 1968.

It is said to have been hastily created because “Imjin River” could no longer be released.

Later, it was covered by various singers, including Shizuru Ohtaka and Iyo Matsumoto.

Goodbye for today.Moriyama Ryoko

Goodbye Today — Ryoko Moriyama, 1967

It’s a single released by Ryoko Moriyama in August 1966, and it has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Songs.

In 1974, a version sung by Rutsuko Honda and the Tokyo Broadcasting Children’s Choir was aired on “Minna no Uta.” It has also been covered by various other artists.

Migratory Bird Bearing TearsSuizenji Kiyoko

Migratory Bird Carrying Tears by Kiyoko Suizenji

Known by the nickname “Cheetah,” Kiyoko Suizenji released her debut single in October 1964.

She also performed this song at the 1965 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It was later covered by various artists, including Harumi Miyako and Kiyoshi Hikawa.