An encouraging song we want people in their 80s to hear. A cheer song from the Showa era.
Music has the power to support the hearts of those who listen, doesn’t it?
I’m sure many people have gained energy and courage from listening to music, or found the motivation to keep going.
And that holds true across generations—there are surely many people in their 80s who have also been empowered by music.
In this article, we’ll introduce uplifting songs we’d love people in their 80s to listen to again.
If you’re reading this, please consider sharing the songs we introduce with the 80-somethings in your life.
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Cheering songs we want people in their 80s to listen to. Encouragement songs from the Showa era (1–10)
Door of LifeMariya Takeuchi
Mariya Takeuchi’s song “Jinsei no Tobira” (“The Doors of Life”) conveys the deep emotion of growing older, the acceptance of life’s changes, and the belief that life remains worth living.
As the scenery shifts with each passing year and the weight of life is felt, the song expresses a strong desire to keep living for the people we love.
Even with age, life holds meaning—its positive message resonates deeply.
By likening life to the beauty of full-bloom cherry blossoms and blazing autumn leaves, it teaches that the years we accumulate enrich us.
It is truly an anthem of encouragement that gives us the strength to live.
Life’s journeyHibari Misora
Hibari Misora’s “Jinsei Ichiro” is a single released in January 1970.
Its powerful lyrics, praising strong will and indomitable spirit, leave a lasting impression.
Life is full of hardships and trials, but this song gives you the courage to never give up and to walk the path you believe in.
It served as the theme song for “Hana to Namida to Honoo” by Hibari Misora and Shinichi Mori, and was also performed at her 1988 concert at the Tokyo Dome.
You can feel Hibari’s spirit, always facing forward and continuing to take on challenges.
It’s the perfect anthem to push you forward when you feel you might be overwhelmed by life’s rough seas.
Always keep your dreamsYukio Hashi, Sayuri Yoshinaga
Itsudemo Yume wo is a duet released in 1962 by Yukio Hashi and Sayuri Yoshinaga.
Its beautiful melody and lyrics with a strong message about cherishing dreams are memorable.
It became a massive hit, selling over one million copies in just six months after its release, and it was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name.
No matter the circumstances, don’t forget your dreams—keep looking forward and moving ahead.
Its uplifting tone makes it perfect for moments when you’re at a crossroads in life or struggling with worries.
It’s a true encouragement song that we especially hope people in their 80s will listen to.
Cheering songs we want people in their 80s to listen to: Support songs from the Showa era (11–20)
The crown of glory shines upon you.Hisao Ito
Eikan wa Kimi ni Kagayaku (Glory Shines on You) is the official song of the National High School Baseball Championship, released in 1948.
The lyrics were written by Daisuke Kaga and the music composed by Yuji Koseki, and Kaga’s passion for baseball is distilled into the words.
Embracing not only victory but also offering encouragement to all young people who take on challenges, the song has long been loved as a message about the importance of pursuing one’s dreams.
It is an anthem that older listeners, in particular, are encouraged to revisit.
It will surely stir the heart as they remember their former selves who never gave up on their dreams.
Youth CyclingKazuya Kosaka
Kazuya Kosaka’s “Seishun Cycling” (“Youth Cycling”).
Released in April 1957, it’s a song that helped popularize cycling culture.
It vividly portrays the refreshing breeze of youth felt through cycling, the beauty of nature, and the fun times spent with friends.
It’s a classic that conveys young people’s spirit of adventure, their yearning for dreams, and the possibilities of the future.
When it was released by Columbia Records, it was loved by many amid the cycling boom.
Carried by Kosaka’s charming vocals—he later flourished as an actor as well—the song is sure to revive youthful memories in listeners’ hearts.
Why not listen to it with your family or friends and reminisce about those days?
king (shogi piece)Hideo Murata
Murata Hideo’s “Osho” is a classic that sings of a man’s resolve before a battle he absolutely cannot lose.
It conveys a strong will to face any hardship and the importance of family support felt while overcoming struggles.
Released in November 1961, it’s a memorable song that was also performed on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen.
This anthem, which gives courage and hope, is one I wholeheartedly recommend to everyone striving toward their dreams.
Flowers will bloom.Flowers Will Bloom Project
Hana wa Saku, released in March 2012 by Yoko Kanno and Shunji Iwai, is a song that conveys a message of deep empathy and support to the areas and people affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake.
Its lyrics gently portray the light of hope that eventually arrives, while standing beside those who lost loved ones in the disaster and remain in grief, and they deeply move the heart.
The song has a universality as an anthem for everyone striving to get through difficult times in life.
I believe it’s a piece that helps us overcome sorrow and gives us the courage to look forward and take a step ahead.
Surely, it will continue to be sung for generations to come, by your grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well.