For seniors in their 80s: Stay healthy while having fun. Introducing dance songs that make you want to move!
Even in your 80s, you might want to stay active and keep your body moving! Perhaps some of you feel that way.
As we get older, our bodies don’t always move the way we want them to, but that doesn’t mean we want to give up.
In this article, we’ll introduce dance songs recommended for people in their 80s.
We’ve selected songs—like popular enka and folk tunes, as well as disco tracks—that people in their 80s will likely know and that will naturally get you moving.
Pick your favorites and give your body a gentle workout.
Start by loosening up slowly, and dance at your own pace while having fun!
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For Seniors in Their 80s: Stay Healthy with Fun—Introducing Dance Songs That Make You Want to Move (21–30)
The Apple SongMichiko Namiki
This beloved song, which gave hope to postwar Japan, is a gentle piece that resonates with people in their 80s.
Michiko Namiki’s bright, clear voice tenderly sings a wish for love and peace entrusted to an apple.
Recorded in December 1945 and released the following January, the song was used as the theme for the film “Soyokaze,” offering comfort to many hearts.
With its relaxed tempo, it’s perfect as background music for exercise in care facilities.
How about humming along while lightly moving your hands and feet while seated? It will surely bring back fond memories and create a heartwarming time.
Sūdara-bushiHitoshi Ueki
One of Hitoshi Ueki’s signature songs, it was released in 1961 and became explosively popular.
Its hallmark is lyrics that wryly sing about life’s mishaps—like drinking too much or failures in love.
It was used as a jingle for an Asahi Beer commercial in 1984, and in 1990 Ueki sang it again.
Loved across generations, it even reached No.
10 on the Oricon chart.
With its catchy melody and approachable lyrics, it’s easy for seniors to sing along to as well.
It’s also perfect as background music for exercise time.
How about everyone moving their bodies together and reminiscing about the old days?
For Seniors in Their 80s: Stay Healthy and Have Fun. Introducing Dance Songs That Will Make You Want to Move (31–40)
The last dance is mineKoshiji Fubuki
This work captivates with its beautiful, heartfelt melody and profound emotion.
It expresses a bittersweet longing for a loved one through dance.
Released by Toshiba Musical Industries in November 1961, it became a bestseller that same year.
It was also featured in Fuji TV’s drama “Furuhata Ninzaburō” and NHK’s morning drama “Teruteru Kazoku,” leaving a lasting impression on many.
The depth of feeling in Koshiji Fubuki’s voice moves the hearts of listeners.
It’s a recommended song for reflecting on memories with someone special or spending a peaceful moment.
a bright red sunHibari Misora
Set to the voice of Hibari Misora, a passionate love story unfolds.
Released in May 1967, this classic depicts a romance played out on a midsummer beach.
Sung with Jackie Yoshikawa and The Blue Comets as the backing band, it became a major hit.
The music was composed by Nobuo Hara and the lyrics were written by Osamu Yoshioka.
Listening to it with older listeners may spark a lively, nostalgic conversation.
Why not surrender yourself to Hibari Misora’s voice and savor the wistful mood that lingers at summer’s end?
What a nice bath.The Drifters
Loved as a song that celebrates hot spring culture with a light, catchy rhythm.
Centered on hot springs in Gunma Prefecture, its lyrics charm listeners by evoking a tour of renowned baths across Japan.
The song’s distinctive phrases leave a strong impression and instantly lift your spirits.
Released in June 1968 as the B-side of The Drifters’ debut single, it has since been covered by various artists.
It was also used as the ending theme for the Crayon Shin-chan movie, making it popular across generations.
How about singing it together while reminiscing about hot spring trips?
festivalSaburō Kitajima
A song that brilliantly captures the heat and energy of Japanese festivals.
Released in November 1984, it is known as one of Saburo Kitajima’s signature numbers.
The lyrics depict harvest festivals and bountiful fishing festivals, imbued with gratitude for nature’s blessings.
It was performed six times on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen, five of those as the grand finale, testifying to its popularity.
It’s a familiar tune for many older listeners, and singing it together with handclaps creates a fun sense of unity.
Perfect when you want to savor a festive atmosphere or boost your spirits.
Why not feel the essence of Japanese traditional culture through Saburo Kitajima’s powerful vocals?
We're going to Tokyo.Ikuzo Yoshi
A song that drew attention for its unique style of singing in the Tsugaru dialect.
Released in November 1984, it immediately captured the hearts of people across Japan.
The lyrics, brimming with humor, vividly portray the feelings of a young person heading from rural Aomori to Tokyo.
When it was performed on the TV show “The Best Ten,” there was reportedly a mishap where Ikuzo Yoshi became so nervous he couldn’t sing.
This work is a profound piece that satirizes the gap between the countryside and the city while also expressing love for one’s hometown.
How about listening to it together with older folks while sharing nostalgic memories?