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

Lonely Way of the WindSugiyama Kiyotaka

Kiyotaka Sugiyama – Kazeno Lonely Way [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A masterpiece that portrays urban loneliness and hope for the future, with a crystal-clear singing voice that resonates deep in the heart.

Like a breeze sweeping through an unfamiliar street corner, this solo work by Kiyotaka Sugiyama beautifully sings of feelings for a former lover.

It carries a profound message that even after parting with someone important, past memories never fade and continue to sustain the heart.

Released in January 1988, the song captured the hearts of many viewers as the theme for “Tuesday Suspense Theater” and reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

Its lyrics, which express a refreshing resignation and the courage to look forward, will surely kindle a quiet light in the hearts of those seeking to overcome the pain of heartbreak.

Lingering Snowiruka

Dolphin [Iruka] / Nagori-yuki [Lingering Snow] (Single Version) Official Audio with translation

This song poignantly portrays a heartrending farewell, using unseasonal snow as its motif.

Set on a station platform as spring approaches, the story vividly conveys the lingering attachment of a man who cannot accept the parting.

First performed on the album “The World of Iruka,” recorded in March 1975, and released as a single that November, it became one of Iruka’s signature classics.

It peaked at No.

4 on the Oricon chart, ranked No.

11 for the year, and sold over 800,000 copies.

With Masataka Matsutoya’s rich arrangement paired with Iruka’s gentle vocals, the song beautifully depicts the scene of farewell.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to reminisce about your youth and look back on precious times with someone dear.

Strawberry Statement, Once Againbanban

Let's Do the 'Strawberry Statement' Once More

This song by Banban is a masterpiece that represents the folk movement of the 1970s.

It portrays tender yet bittersweet memories of youth, as the narrator looks back on a student-days romance, prompted by a rerelease of a film.

Many people can relate to the protagonist’s realistic, down-to-earth portrayal—where youthful ideals meet reality, and he chooses to cut his hair and take a job.

Released in August 1975, the song is also famous as the first piece ever written and provided by singer-songwriter Yumi Arai.

Banban’s harmonies blend beautifully with Arai’s lyrics and melody, and the song became a major hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

Beloved as a song that evokes nostalgia for youth, it’s also known for being easy to sing at karaoke.

As time goes bysawada kenji

As time goes by

A gem of a ballad that depicts the wounded hearts of lonely men and women, gently wrapped in tender love.

The poignant lyrics about men and women burdened with exhausted hearts strike deep, and when combined with Kenji Sawada’s sultry vocals, they evoke profound emotion.

Released as an insert song for the drama “Akuma no Youna Aitsu,” which premiered in August 1975, this work became a major hit, topping the Oricon chart for five consecutive weeks.

The fusion of Yu Aku’s masterful lyrics and Katsuo Ohno’s lyrical melody produced a treasured classic that quietly stays by your side when you feel weary of life or uncertain about a relationship with someone dear.

I want to become the wind.THE BOOM

Kaze Ni Naritai (Samba, Novo)

A heartwarming message song woven from samba rhythms and Japanese lyrics.

It’s a gem that rides on a light, flowing groove to express the wish to be free together with a loved one.

Released in March 1995 as THE BOOM’s 16th single, it was also included on the previous year’s album “Kyokutou Samba.” Chosen for numerous commercials, including DC Card and J-PHONE, it left a lasting impression on many people.

With rich percussion and the gentle vocals of Kazufumi Miyazawa in perfect harmony, the song was featured in high school music textbooks and, in July 2013, realized a collaboration with a popular idol group on Fuji TV’s “FNS Uta no Natsumatsuri.” It’s a moving track to play when you want to feel the bond with someone special.

My Dear EllieSazan Ōrusutāzu

Beloved Ellie [2024 Remaster]

A gem of a love ballad that depicts the bittersweet longing to start over, intertwined with deep love for a partner and regret over having hurt them in the past.

Warm in tone, it opened up a new frontier for Southern All Stars.

Released as a single in March 1979, it reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It is also known as the theme song for the drama “Fuzoroi no Ringo-tachi” (Uneven Apples).

In 1989, Ray Charles covered it in English as “Ellie My Love,” further elevating its international acclaim.

A timeless masterpiece that resonates in the heart when reflecting on a cherished relationship, it continues to be loved across generations.

single bedSha ran Q

Sharam Q “Single Bed” (Music Video)

A melodious ballad that poignantly portrays the feelings of a man who, after heartbreak, can’t bring himself to step into a new love.

The single bed etched with memories of his beloved now stands as a symbol of lonely solitude.

The simple, everyday happiness they once shared, and the aching longing for someone who has now become distant, tighten the chest.

Released by Sharam Q in October 1994, this song was used as the ending theme for the anime D·N·A² and is also included on the album “Inferiority Complex.” It’s a song that gently supports those who are trying to move forward while looking back on a past love, and those who have experienced parting with someone dear.