[2026 Edition] Songs Loved by People in Their 60s: Classic Hits from Their Youth

Runnerbakufū suranpu

Bakufu Slump “Runner” MUSIC VIDEO (HD)

The iconic song by Bakufu Slump, capturing the vibrant spirit of youth and the bonds of friendship, continues to move countless hearts even today.

Its lyrics, depicting the everyday life of boys on the track team, vividly portray scenes like talking in the locker room after the rain and gazing at the stars on the field at night, stirring up nostalgic memories.

Since its release in October 1988, it has been featured as insert music on Nippon TV’s “Genius! Takeshi’s Energy Giving TV” and in a Hitachi video commercial, and has since remained a beloved cheer song for high school baseball.

This piece is perfect for times when you face parting from friends, need the courage to take a new step forward, or want to cheer on someone important.

Its powerful melody and passionate message will gently nudge listeners onward.

First loveMurashita Kōzō

Kozo Murashita “Hatsukoi” Music Video

A bittersweet unrequited-love story that begins with a scene of early-summer rain.

Released as a single in February 1983, it was Kozo Murashita’s fifth release and became a major hit, reaching No.

3 on the Oricon charts.

It was also included on the album “Hatsukoi — Asaki Yume Mishi —,” and has since been covered by many artists, including Koji Tamaki and Hitomi Shimatani.

Filled with youthful memories that anyone who’s experienced unrequited love can relate to, this work invites you to quietly hum along on a calm night while thinking of someone dear.

In the Middle of a DreamKisugi Takao

Yumeno Tochu

A bittersweet love song that delicately portrays parting, reunion, and the fleeting nature of dreams.

Its steady yet lyrical melody blends with lyrics that resonate deeply, making it a gem of a masterpiece.

Takao Kisugi’s distinctive vocal style, known as the “Kisugi-bushi,” further enhances the song’s appeal.

Exuding an urban, nostalgic atmosphere, the piece was released as a single in November 1981 and included on the album Yume no Tochū, released in December of the same year.

Additionally, Hiroko Yakushimaru covered it as the theme song for the film Sailor Suit and Machine Gun, and it became a major hit.

The original album also ranked high on the Oricon charts, placing 11th in annual sales for 1982.

It’s the perfect track for moments of calm or when you want to reminisce about someone special—a classic that gently soothes the heart.

Black Cat TangoMinagawa Osamu

Osamu Minagawa – Black Cat Tango (1969)

Released on October 5, 1969, Osamu Minagawa’s debut song “Black Cat Tango” remains an enduring children’s classic loved by many.

Originally based on an Italian children’s song, it sold over 2.6 million copies in Japan.

For many in their 60s who came of age around the 1970s, it’s a track that brings back bittersweet memories of youth.

Its charming yet nostalgic melody feels fresh in any era, and it’s even more fun to sing at karaoke.

Rediscover the delightful appeal of the “black cat,” sprinkled with mischievous affection for you.

I love you, I love you, I love you.Za Kānabītsu

I love you, I love you, I love you

The debut release by The Carnabeats, a cover of a song by the British rock band The Zombies.

Released in June 1967, the track was a forerunner of the Group Sounds boom and sold between 1.2 and 1.5 million copies.

With its energetic rhythm and catchy melody, the song drew attention for Ai Takano’s performance, singing while playing drums.

In later years, Mi-Ke’s cover was used as the opening theme for Nippon TV’s “N!? Sanma,” and it was also featured in the anime The Prince of Tennis, making it a beloved song across generations.

Highly recommended for those who want to savor GS sound that sings of the sweet loves of youth.

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.

In the Sun and the DustCHAGE and ASKA

[MV] In the Sun and Dust / CHAGE and ASKA

A gem of a melody that portrays the dreams and setbacks of youth—and the strength to overcome them.

Released to the world by CHAGE and ASKA in January 1991, this work captures the persistence of those who keep pursuing their dreams, set to a 16-beat rhythm infused with a Western pop sensibility.

The chorus, simple yet striking, has a familiar charm that makes you want to sing along.

A single cut from the album “SEE YA,” it was featured in Nissin Foods’ “Cup Noodles Red Zone” campaign and as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s TIME3, becoming a major hit with cumulative sales exceeding 500,000 copies.

It’s a song that gently pushes you forward when you want to keep running toward unseen dreams—or when you find yourself at a crossroads in life.