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

A Good Day to Set Out on a JourneyYamaguchi Momoe

Momoe Yamaguchi - Good Day to Set Out on a Journey

While many celebrities make occasional TV appearances after retiring and treat us to familiar faces, Momoe Yamaguchi’s decisiveness is in a class of its own—perhaps that’s part of why she’s a truly legendary singer.

When it comes to Momoe’s songs, the team of Yoko Aki and Ryudo Uzaki usually comes to mind, but this song, “Ii Hi Tabidachi” (A Fine Day for a Journey), was actually written by the late Shinji Tanimura.

It’s been used in so many TV commercials that it feels like it’s always been ringing in our ears.

It was released in 1978, but I think it still really resonates with young people today!

Farewell, youthogura kei

Amateur solo singing with guitar: Farewell, Youth by Kei Ogura

Back then, I think many people took up the guitar under the influence of the folk songs that were popular, and this was a song almost everyone played.

It’s also said to be a song about breaking away from the intense student movements.

Ogura Kei’s sensibility shines here, as he delivers such profound lyrics and an emotional melody with effortless ease.

This is a track that, no matter how old you get, makes you want to listen and remember those passionate days.

setting sunyoshida takurou

setting sun

Takuro Yoshida is known as a pioneer of folk singers in Japan, and even today many artists speak of his profound influence.

Released on December 21, 1973, his song “Rakuyō” (Setting Sun) was later remade, with the new version chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Ano Natsu ni Dakaretai.” The ensemble—where folk sensibilities and band-driven sound blend exquisitely—still moves listeners to this day.

It’s a wistful number that we hope not only those in their 60s but listeners of all generations will enjoy.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Speak not of lifeyoshida takurou

Takuro Yoshida - Don’t Speak of Life (lyrics)Don’t speak of life like you know it allDon’t speak of love like you’ve got it downDon’t speak of dreams the way someone else doesDon’t speak of life, don’t speak of lifeIf you’re gonna talk, then sing it outIf you’re gonna love, then give it allIf you’re gonna dream, then stake your lifeDon’t speak of life, don’t speak of lifeWhen the wind blows through the town at duskI stop and listen to my heartI remember someone I used to loveAnd I feel like I can almost see them nowDon’t speak of life like you know it allDon’t speak of love like you’ve got it downDon’t speak of dreams the way someone else doesDon’t speak of life, don’t speak of lifeIf you’re gonna cry, then cry it outIf you’re gonna laugh, then laugh out loudIf you’re gonna live, then live it throughDon’t speak of life, don’t speak of lifeOn a night when the rain won’t seem to stopI walk with my collar turned upI hum a tune that no one knowsAnd I feel like I can almost flyDon’t speak of life like you know it allDon’t speak of love like you’ve got it downDon’t speak of dreams the way someone else doesDon’t speak of life, don’t speak of lifeIf you’re gonna talk, then sing it outIf you’re gonna love, then give it allIf you’re gonna dream, then stake your lifeDon’t speak of life, don’t speak of life

Singer-songwriter Takuro Yoshida has been active since 1970 and continues to perform at the forefront even past the age of 70.

“Jinsei o Katarazu” (Don’t Talk About Life) is a track from the 1974 album “Ima wa Mada Jinsei o Katarazu.” It’s a song about how to live one’s life, and listening to it when you’re lost or on the verge of giving up can give you strength.

Many people now in their 60s may have been encouraged by this song during their youth.

Yoshida’s powerful voice moves our hearts.

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sasashina

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I just can’t stopYamamoto Rinda

I Just Can't Stop

Linda Yamamoto’s 1972 release “Dōnimo Tomaranai” (“I Just Can’t Stop”) made waves with its sexy “bare-midriff look” and provocative choreography.

The song is also notable for its mysterious melody and sweet lyrics.

At the time, there were still few songs this daring, so many people were probably shocked when they first heard it or saw it on music shows.

Even today, various artists openly cite Linda Yamamoto as an influence, which speaks volumes about her lasting impact.

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Yuuki

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Nice to meet you, melancholy.Gō Hiromi

Hiromi Go – Yoroshiku Aishu (1974)

Gently singing of the complexities of love, “Yoroshiku Aishū” stands out among Hiromi Go’s many songs.

Released in September 1974, it became familiar as the theme song for the drama “Chotto Shiawase.” It expresses the heartache of love through a tender melody and Go’s sweet vocals.

Its theme—that time spent apart deepens love—resonates with distant memories and speaks to the heart.

The lyrical portrayal of a man and woman missing each other’s feelings evokes empathy in many and ensures the song’s lasting affection.

Even today, it remains a timeless classic that touches the heart when sung at karaoke.

Take off your boots and have breakfastSaijō Hideki

Take off your boots and have breakfast — Hideki Saijo

Alongside Hiromi Go and Goro Noguchi, Hideki Saijo was known as one of the “New Big Three” and was a leading male idol of the 1970s.

His song Boots Off for Breakfast was released in 1978 as his 23rd single.

Its up-tempo melody and passionate lyrics captivated many fans.

Even listening now, you can still vividly feel the heat we felt back then! Line up Hideki Saijo’s nostalgic tracks and take a trip down memory lane!

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Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu

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