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

ForeverGosuperāzu

The Gospellers “To Eternity” at International Forum 2017/7/9 Short Ver.

This celebrated song, which sings of an eternal bond with a loved one, gently conveys the unbreakable feelings that exist precisely because love is formless.

Transcending physical distance, the unwavering longing for the other person resonates in the heart alongside beautiful harmonies.

Released in August 2000, the track stayed on the Oricon chart for an impressive 44 weeks and was selected as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s JAPAN COUNTDOWN.

Its diverse arrangements—hallmarks of The Gospellers—are part of its appeal, including the Album Version on the album “Soul Serenade” and the “unplugged live version” included on the single “Hitori.” It remains a beloved song that makes you want to sing while thinking of someone special, especially after time spent talking with friends.

TSUNAMISazan Ōrusutāzu

TSUNAMI

Known as a masterpiece that likens the pain of heartbreak to a tsunami, this work is a moving love song celebrated as one of Southern All Stars’ signature pieces.

It’s a gem of a ballad that expresses the sorrow of losing someone dear through a grand melody, fully showcasing Keisuke Kuwata’s exceptional songwriting and composing talent.

Released in January 2000, it topped the Oricon weekly charts and won the Japan Record Award the same year.

It was also selected as the theme song for the popular segment “Mirai Nikki III” on the TV program “U-nan no Hontoko!,” becoming a classic beloved across generations.

As a heartwarming song that offers comfort to those carrying the pain of losing someone special, it’s also highly recommended for karaoke.

A Tearful RequestChekkāzu

A Tearful Request

This song is a masterpiece that poignantly captures a man’s heartbreak and lingering feelings as he sends a request to a late-night radio show, expressing both sorrow and sincerity with remarkable nuance.

While influenced by American oldies, its pop sound beautifully blends that style with the charm of Japanese kayōkyoku, creating a resonance that speaks to the heart.

Released in January 1984, it became one of The Checkers’ signature hits, achieving great success and placing fourth on Oricon’s year-end chart.

Featured in the morning dramas Futari Ko and Amachan, the song portrays a young person trying to soothe the pain of a broken heart through a cherished tune, remaining beloved as a piece that stays with listeners alongside nostalgic memories.

It’s a recommended track for when you want to look back on a past romance or deepen your feelings for someone special.

huge nuisanceyunikōn

Unicorn - “Great Nuisance”

A blissful newlywed life in a brand-new home is shattered by a sudden solo assignment away from the family…

This is a UNICORN song that portrays the sorrows and inner conflicts of a salaryman with plenty of humor.

Its dramatic melody, fused with orchestral elements, perfectly matches the song’s unique worldview, resulting in a masterpiece that sharply satirizes Japanese society during the bubble era.

Released in April 1989 as the lead single from the album “Hattori,” it reached No.

12 on the Oricon charts and remains immensely popular among fans.

With lyrics that empathize with the feelings of corporate warriors and a catchy, karaoke-friendly melody line, it’s perfect for gatherings where friends want to reminisce.

countrysideTamaki Kōji

Koji Tamaki “Rural Landscape” (HD)

This is a gem of a masterpiece by Koji Tamaki, depicting people who, while facing the weaknesses and conflicts hidden within, live with strength.

The song richly portrays life as it is: a solitary soul kicking a stone, eyes gazing at the night sky in prayer, and an oil-stained back fallen silent.

Its melody gently teaches the importance of not overreaching, but simply taking one step at a time and steadily doing what you can.

Released in July 1996, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Coach” and became a major hit, reaching No.

2 on the Oricon charts.

It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who feels lost or anxious in daily life, or who is searching for a way of living that is true to themselves.

Stardust StageChekkāzu

Stardust Stage

The Checkers’ classic song about the bittersweet feelings of youthful love is etched in many people’s hearts along with fluttering memories.

Its beautiful lyrics paint a world where the sour-sweet parting of a romance is overlaid with the sparkle of stars in the night sky.

Released in August 1984, the track was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Uchi no Ko ni Kagitte…” and became beloved across generations.

The following year, it was also chosen as the entry march for the 57th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, earning even more attention.

With Fumiya Fujii’s clear, transparent vocals and the refined harmonies performed by all the members, the piece achieves a perfect balance.

As you look back on memories with someone special, why not sing it from the heart?

Sky Restauranthaifaisetto

Hi-Fi Set – Sky Restaurant｜My Favorite ALFA: Vinyl Side Ep. 1 @ UNITY RECORD BAR（Seoul, Korea）

A gem of a love song set in a high-rise restaurant where the city’s nightscape stretches out in beauty, depicting a heartrending reunion and farewell.

Released by Hi-Fi Set in November 1975, this piece harmonizes Yumi Matsutoya’s delicate lyrics with Kunihiko Murai’s beautiful melody to stunning effect.

Evening darkness and city lights reflected in skyscraper windows—and a reunion with a past lover.

Even as she senses a parting to come, the woman’s earnest wish to cherish this moment alone together strikes deep.

With the gloss of an adult love drama and a refined, urban sound, it’s perfect for a calm evening.

Why not savor it slowly while immersing yourself in the feelings you keep in your heart?