Good songs recommended for people in their 60s: classic and popular Japanese tracks

Message of RougeMatsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Rouge no Dengon (Yumi Matsutoya Concert Tour The Universe Library 2016-2017)

Rouge no Dengon, a famous song by Yumi Arai released in 1975, is a work that embodies the cheerful vibe of 1970s Japanese pop music, maintaining a bright and gentle tone throughout.

The vocal range is typical of Japanese pop, with a lowest note of mid1 G and a highest note of hi C.

Since the hi C appears twice in the chorus, if you’re not comfortable with falsetto, it’s a good idea to lower the key with this section in mind.

It’s a big hit at karaoke, so consider adding it to your repertoire.

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Yoko of the Port, Yokohama, YokosukaDaun Taun Bugiugi Bando

Minato No Yoko Yokohama Yokosuka

Set against the backdrops of Yokohama and Yokosuka, this song paints scenes of harbor towns and everyday lives.

Its blues-based rock sound, sprinkled with a touch of comedy, gives it a unique charm.

Upon its release on April 20, 1975, it became an instant hit, topping the Oricon chart for five consecutive weeks and ranking fifth on the year-end chart.

It also made a major splash in the music world, winning the Planning Award at the 17th Japan Record Awards.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to soak in the atmosphere of a port town and reminisce about their youth.

Give it a listen when you’re feeling nostalgic or want to enjoy music at a leisurely pace.

17 years oldMinami Saori

Amateur singer-songwriter performance: 17 Years Old by Saori Minami

This is Saori Minami’s debut single, released in June 1971.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon chart and won awards such as the Japan Record Award for New Artist and the Shinjuku Music Festival Gold Prize.

With this song, Minami also performed at the 22nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Lullaby of the SaintessesIwasaki Hiromi

Lullaby of the Holy Mothers

It’s one of the iconic songs of the ’80s and continues to be loved by many even today.

The lyrics and melody feel as if they speak across time, evoking both nostalgia and freshness at once.

Hiromi Iwasaki’s beautiful voice—combining poignancy and strength—resonates deep within the listener’s heart.

Released in May 1982, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon Singles Chart and was also used as the first ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Tuesday Suspense Theater.” Sing it at karaoke while reminiscing about your youth, and you’re sure to captivate everyone around you.

hopeKishi Yoko

Yoko Kishi - Hope

It is one of Yoko Kishi’s signature songs, released in April 1970.

It reached as high as No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart and won the Japan Record Award for Best Vocal Performance.

Kishi was unable to appear on that year’s Kohaku Uta Gassen due to illness, but she participated the following year.

I hate demons.Hirata Takao to Serusutāzu

Takao Hirata and the Cell Stars – The Devil Is Hateful (1971)

This is a single by Takao Hirata and the Cell Stars, released in August 1971.

Although it did not sell well at first, its popularity grew a few months later, and it topped the Oricon chart for five consecutive weeks.

It was later covered by the Tokyo Donbars.

Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji

Do whatever the hell you want.

Released in 1977, this song portrays the complex emotions of a man after a heartbreak.

The loneliness and resignation hidden behind light words of parting are brilliantly conveyed through Kenji Sawada’s powerful vocals.

It achieved major commercial success, topping the Oricon weekly chart for five consecutive weeks and ranking fourth on the year-end chart.

With sales reaching 890,000 copies, it has become one of Kenji Sawada’s signature tracks.

Its bold structure—shifting from a ballad to a hard rock style—is also captivating, showcasing the arranger’s full prowess.

It’s especially recommended for adults grappling with matters of love.