Popular Japanese songs among men in their 60s: recommended masterpieces and classic tracks

A solitary journey to MichinokuYamamoto Jōji

A solitary journey to Michinoku

Set against the landscapes of Tohoku, this is a renowned enka classic about a heartrending farewell.

Released by Joji Yamamoto in 1980, it became a major hit.

The poignant tale of two lovers torn apart by fate is sure to stir the heart.

In the 2000s, the song was also featured in an NTT East Japan commercial, making it beloved across generations.

This work fully showcases Yamamoto’s unique vocal power and his ability to convey deep emotion.

Many people may find themselves moved to tears when singing it at karaoke.

foreignerKUBOTA Saki

Saki Kubota "Ihōjin" Animated Music Video

It’s an impressive song that opens with an exotic intro.

The pain of heartbreak and the feeling of loneliness are expressed by likening them to a traveler on the Silk Road.

Released in October 1979 as Saki Kubota’s debut single, it was also used in a Sanyo Electric commercial and reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart in December of the same year.

It became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.

It’s a perfect song for people in their 60s as a memory of their youth, and it’s also a great choice to try singing at karaoke.

Mary AnnTHE ALFEE

Mary Ann

A classic youth anthem that beautifully fuses bittersweet romance with an energetic rock sound.

Released in June 1983, this track became THE ALFEE’s first major hit, reaching No.

7 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and No.

30 on the year-end ranking.

It later climbed to No.

3 on The Best Ten.

Riding this success, the band made their first appearance at the 34th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen at the end of 1983.

Also included on the album ALFEE’S LAW, the song has remained a beloved staple of THE ALFEE’s live performances.

With romantic lyrics woven together in perfect balance with hard rock, this piece is a must-listen for anyone cherishing a secret love.

Friendanzenchitai

Anzenchitai “Friend”

A song released by Anzen Chitai in October 1986 that gained popularity on the TV show “Yoru no Hit Studio” was used in a Daio Paper commercial.

Featured on the album Anzen Chitai V, it drew strong response, reaching No.

7 on the Oricon chart and peaking at No.

2 on The Best Ten.

Koji Tamaki’s expressively rich vocals poignantly convey the delicate emotional shifts of a relationship transitioning from lovers to friends.

The beautiful melody, unfolding from a wistful piano intro into a grand orchestral arrangement, gently resonates with anyone feeling the loneliness of a changing bond with someone dear.

TRAIN-TRAINTHE BLUE HEARTS

[Official] THE BLUE HEARTS 'TRAIN-TRAIN' [3rd Single (1988/11/23)] THE BLUE HEARTS / TRAIN-TRAIN

A rock tune that stays close to each listener and keeps delivering a powerful message.

With its straightforward spirit and energetic performance, this is a signature work by THE BLUE HEARTS that truly breaks through.

Hidden within are hints for finding your own way of life—guidance for the road of life.

After its release in November 1988, it ranked for five consecutive weeks on a TBS music program, and starting in January 1989 it was also chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “High School Graffiti.” This track has become a staple at sporting events as well, used as a cheer song in high school baseball and as walk-up music by many professional baseball players.

It’s recommended for times when you’re feeling down, ready to take a new step forward, or standing at a crossroads in life.

It’s a song that’s sure to give you courage and hope.

Banzai ~ So glad I loved you ~Urufuruzu

Ulfuls – Banzai ~I'm Glad I Fell in Love~

This rock tune celebrating the joy of pure love is a fan favorite that showcases Ulfuls’ musicality to the fullest.

Its lyrics, which candidly express gratitude to a loved one, resonate deeply, and together with its bright, catchy melody, the song lifts listeners’ spirits.

Released in February 1996, it was included on the album “Banzai” and also drew attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Goddess of Victory.” Moreover, it won the Excellence Award at the 38th Japan Record Awards.

It’s a perfect track for getting pumped up at karaoke with friends or for reminiscing about special memories with someone important.

Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi

Like the Moon Tonight / Elephant Kashimashi

It’s a deeply moving masterpiece that powerfully sings of passion for the future while gazing into everyday feelings of emptiness and loneliness.

Set against the backdrop of a city at dusk, it portrays the solitude and struggles of people living in an urban landscape, yet conveys a strong will to keep looking forward and moving on.

The soulful vocals unique to Elephant Kashimashi and the melody that resonates with the heart are beautifully in harmony.

Released in July 1997, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Because the Moon Shines at Night,” and was also included on the album “Run Toward Tomorrow – Moonlit Songs.” In 2017, it was performed in the band’s first appearance on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, winning over even more listeners.

It’s a track that will evoke deep empathy when you feel lost in life or spend a night thinking of someone dear.