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A collection of cheerful, uplifting songs recommended for women in their 80s—fun, bright tunes to sing along to

There are many kinds of so-called “uplifting songs,” aren’t there?

In this article, we’ll introduce songs recommended for women in their 80s, focusing on bright, lively tunes with a fun atmosphere and songs with wonderful lyrics that can support the heart.

We’ve mainly selected nostalgic classics released in the Showa era, so if you’re a woman in your 80s, most of these will likely sound familiar.

Be sure to listen while looking at the lyrics and find the songs that give you energy.

We hope this will be helpful not only for those in their 80s reading this article, but also for anyone looking to gift uplifting music to someone in their 80s.

Uplifting Songs Recommended for Women in Their 80s: A Collection of Fun, Cheerful Tunes to Sing (41–50)

Choo-choo trainLyrics by Kaoru Tomihara / Music by Shin Kusakawa

This is a memorable piece crafted by Kaoru Tomihara and Shin Kusakawa that brings back nostalgic memories.

Its charm lies in the lively melody that evokes the passing scenery outside the window and the rhythmic sounds of a train in motion.

Released in 1937, the song has been cherished by many and was selected in 2007 as one of the “100 Best Japanese Songs.” As a masterpiece representing children’s songs around the world, it has been covered by numerous artists, including Masako Kawada.

How about livening up a music recreation session by sharing stories about trains? It could be a wonderful time to share the nostalgic views from train windows in your memories, especially together with older adults.

The Highland Train GoesAtsurō Okamoto

The highland train goes — a nostalgic song
The Highland Train Goes — Atsuro Okamoto

A song that gracefully celebrates the natural beauty of the highlands and the romance of train travel evokes heartwarming memories of family trips and brings to mind wonderful moments with loved ones.

Its sweeping scenery and romantic spirit are sure to soothe anyone’s heart.

Carried by Atsuro Okamoto’s comforting vocals, the pastoral landscapes gently resonate within.

Since its release in 1954, this work has continued to be beloved by many and was featured in the 2020 NHK morning drama series “Yell,” moving audiences across generations.

It’s perfect for a time of sharing old memories over tea with everyone.

Settle in, relax, and enjoy a peaceful moment.

What a nice bath.The Drifters

This is a song that celebrates the charms of hot spring resorts, beloved from the Showa-era hit TV program “It’s 8 o’clock! Everybody, Gather Round!” The original version, sung by the Duke Aces, was themed around hot spring areas in Gunma Prefecture, and The Drifters covered it on the B-side of their debut single.

The lyrics were adapted to feature hot spring resorts across Japan—such as Noboribetsu and Kusatsu—expressing fondness for onsen through a lively rhythm and call-and-response shouts.

The song was used as the ending theme for both “It’s 8 o’clock! Everybody, Gather Round!” and “Drifters’ Big Laughter,” and it also appeared in a 1969 film.

Humming it together with older adults while reminiscing about hot spring trips can make for a heartwarming moment.

Apple SongMichiko Namiki

Apple Song - Michiko Namiki - Showa-era song
Apple Song Namiki Michiko

A gentle, warm song that likens the object of one’s affection to an apple.

Released in January 1946, it became a classic that drew a major response for the first time in the postwar era.

As the theme song of the film “Soyokaze,” it was performed as a duet by Michiko Namiki and Noboru Kirishima.

Under the blue sky, the way the singer longs for the charming apple is portrayed alongside a refreshing melody.

In the turmoil of the time, it became a ray of hope.

For older listeners, it’s a nostalgic piece that brings back memories of the good old days.

Setting aside time to sing it together in a care facility may well spark lively conversations about happy times gone by.

the first strong spring windCandies

With its nostalgic melody, this song that heralds the arrival of spring likely remains in the hearts of many older listeners as a signature work by Candies.

Released in March 1976, it is characterized by a fresh, bright atmosphere reminiscent of a spring breeze.

Its lively rhythm and spirited vocals convey the feeling of a new season beginning.

The song expresses the excitement of new encounters and hopes that come with spring, warmly enveloping those who listen.

It’s perfect for humming along together at a day service, too.

Enjoy a pleasant moment as you bask in the spring sunshine and reminisce about fond memories.

Love VacationThe Peanuts

A classic released in 1963, known for its light, catchy melody and lyrics that vividly portray the sweet moments of two people in love.

The romantically dreamy expressions in the lyrics depict special times with a lover.

The song won the Arranging Award at the 5th Japan Record Awards in 1963 and was performed at the 14th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, gaining wide popularity from the time of its release.

For those in their eighties, it’s a nostalgic tune that likely brings back memories of their youth.

Sing it out loud and recharge your spirits while reminiscing about the old days!

Tokyo Bus GirlFirst-generation Columbia Rose

“Tokyo no Bus Girl” is a song by the first Columbia Rose, released in October 1957.

Written and composed with a Hato Bus tour guide as its model, the piece became emblematic of the era, even inspiring a film of the same title released in 1958.

The first verse portrays an enthusiastic bus guide, the second conveys the pain of a bittersweet heartbreak, and the third depicts her rallying herself after being discouraged by unreasonable abuse from passengers.

For those in their eighties, it might be a lovely opportunity to reminisce, saying, “We had times like that back then,” while listening to this song.