Tear-Jerking Songs Recommended for Women in Their 80s: A Collection of Heart-Stirring Masterpieces
If you’re a woman in your 80s, you probably have many unforgettable classic songs from the Showa era.
In this article, we’ll spotlight especially moving songs from among those classics and introduce our top recommendations.
From songs about heartbreak to ones that portray the straightforward love women carry, we think you’ll find tracks that draw you in and bring you to tears.
Be sure to read the lyrics and listen while feeling the stories and emotions woven into each song.
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Tear-Jerking Songs Recommended for Women in Their 80s: A Collection of Moving Masterpieces (1–10)
I want to go far away.Jerry Fujio
A refreshing song filled with dreams and hope.
Jerry Fujio’s sweet vocals gently embrace the longing to set off on a distant journey.
Released in 1962 as an insert song for the film “Wakai Kisetsu” (Young Season), it later became a smash hit as a single.
It was also chosen as the theme song for the TV program “Tōku e Ikitai” (I Want to Go Far Away), resonating with many people.
Recommended for those feeling weary from daily life or ready to take a new step forward.
It will surely give you a gentle push from behind.
freezing rainMika Hino
Mika Hino’s signature song “Hisame” portrays the aching heart of a woman who can’t forget her former lover and tries to drown the pain with alcohol.
Since its 1982 release, it has been continually requested on cable radio and has remained widely cherished, even winning the Japan Record Awards’ Long Seller Award.
It was also Akio Kayama’s debut song, and artists like Kiyoshi Nakajo and Kaori Kozai have performed it as well, which likely explains its popularity across generations.
Memories SakeSachiko Kobayashi
Sachiko Kobayashi’s “Omoide-zake” is a gem of a ballad that powerfully sings of heartbreak and loneliness.
It vividly captures the image of a woman holding back tears and the aching feelings for a departed lover.
Since its release in January 1979, it has sold over two million singles and was performed at the 30th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
It also garnered numerous awards, including the Japan Record Award.
It’s a mature song that pairs perfectly with an evening drink—music made for sake.
Delicately weaving the subtleties of a woman’s heart, this masterpiece seeps into the listener’s soul.
Tearjerker songs recommended for women in their 80s: A collection of moving masterpieces (11–20)
Isn't it fine as long as you're happy?Naomi Sara
Naomi Sagara’s “Iijanai no Shiawase Naraba” gives us courage with lyrics that convey the strength and independence to prioritize one’s own happiness over others’ judgments.
Covered by a variety of artists—including Nana Kinomi and Keisuke Kuwata—the song has remained beloved by many.
When it was released in 1969, it achieved the remarkable honor of winning the Japan Record Award, an especially prestigious feat for a female solo artist.
This song, which teaches the importance of living true to yourself, is one I especially hope people listen to in today’s era.
The Sweet LifeGoro Noguchi
Amai Seikatsu (Sweet Life) is a gem of a ballad released by Goro Noguchi in 1974.
The song tells the story of a cohabiting couple who part ways; its portrayals of memories from their happier days—like their matching mugs—evoke the loneliness and emotional distance that love alone cannot overcome, striking a deep chord.
The song resonated with young listeners and became his first number-one hit on the Oricon charts.
It’s recommended for anyone who has had a similar experience or carries unforgettable memories of a past love.
My loverMayumi Itsuwa
Mayumi Itsuwa’s signature song “Koibito yo” is a timeless masterpiece that, while addressing the universal theme of parting, leaves a lasting impression through its unique poetic expression and melody.
Released in August 1980, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts and won the Gold Prize at the Japan Record Awards that same year.
The song has been covered by many artists and continues to be beloved across generations.
It’s a moving piece that I especially recommend to those who have experienced the full range of life’s joys and sorrows.
The Bride of SetoRumiko Koyanagi
Released in April 1972, this work became a memorable classic for many, with its clear, translucent vocals and lyrical lyrics.
It is a song deeply rooted in society, having won awards at the Japan Kayō Awards and being used as a departure melody at JR stations.
Set against the beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea, it sings of a young woman’s pure love and her hopes for a new beginning.
It is a piece we especially recommend to seniors who may be feeling the parting from a loved one or anticipating a new chapter in life.
Along with nostalgic memories, it will bring a heartwarming moment.