Breakup songs recommended for people in their 80s: a collection of classic tracks that capture heartbreaking feelings
When it comes to breakup songs familiar to people in their 80s, it’s probably the tunes released during the Showa era, isn’t it?
Back then, there were so many masterpieces in pop and enka that portrayed bittersweet emotions.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of breakup songs we hope people in their 80s will enjoy listening to.
If you’re from a younger generation and reading this, please recommend the songs we’re about to introduce to the 80-somethings around you.
They’ll surely be reminded of their youthful days.
Recommended heartbreak songs for people in their 80s: A collection of classic tracks that capture bittersweet feelings (1–10)
Goodbye once moreKiyohiko Ozaki
Kiyohiko Ozaki’s “Sayonara wo Mou Ichido” is a heartfelt breakup song themed around parting and the hope of reunion.
It conveys complex emotions that find love even within farewell.
Ozaki’s powerful vocals gently embrace the bittersweet feelings of two people who chose to part.
Released in 1971, the song was featured in the film Nodojiman and has been covered by many artists, remaining beloved across generations.
It’s a song that gently stays by the side of anyone whose chest aches with memories of an old love or who has experienced a farewell with someone dear.
This is goodbye today.Yoichi Sugawara
Yoichi Sugawara’s “Kyo de Owakare” is a classic that captures the poignant moment of parting.
It conveys inexpressible feelings and lingering attachment to the other person that truly weigh on the heart.
Released in 1967, it won the 12th Japan Record Award and stands as a quintessential Showa-era heartbreak song.
Sugawara’s emotionally rich vocals further accentuate the pain of farewell.
Listening to this song may lead some to look back on past loves and think, “That’s how I felt back then.” It’s a piece that gently stays close to the hearts of those who have experienced a farewell with someone dear.
Yokohama TwilightHiroshi Itsuki
Hiroshi Itsuki’s “Yokohama Tasogare” is a classic released in 1971.
Set in the port city of Yokohama, its lyrics about a poignant parting between a man and a woman deeply resonate.
Through delicate depictions, the pain of heartbreak vividly emerges alongside the scenery.
Itsuki’s powerful yet wistful voice further accentuates the sorrow of farewell.
Listening to this song may bring back nostalgic memories.
It’s a piece I especially recommend to older listeners who have experienced the parting of someone dear.
Waltz of StarlightMasao Sen
Hoshikage no Waltz is a heartbreak song in which Masao Sen’s singing voice resonates deeply.
The regret of choosing to part ways and a profound love for the other person are woven into the poignant lyrics.
Released in 1966, it gradually gained popularity and became a million-selling classic.
It’s recommended for times when you want to heal the pain of a breakup or reminisce about an old love.
Listening to this song may make you feel the importance of honestly expressing your feelings to someone you cherish.
Morning of PartingPedro & Capricious
Pedro & Capricious’s “Farewell Morning” is a masterpiece that gently envelops the pain of heartbreak with a wistful Latin rhythm and lyrics that seep into the heart.
The lyrics, depicting a parting scene at a train station, may vividly rekindle the memories of youth for older listeners.
Since its release in 1971 as their debut single, it has been covered by many artists and has remained beloved for decades.
It’s the perfect song for spending quiet time alone or reflecting on memories with someone special.
Cape ErimoChiyoko Shimakura
Chiyoko Shimakura’s “Erimo Misaki” is a touching heartbreak song themed around parting from a loved one.
The lyrics, which depict a quiet autumn night brewing coffee alone and the way the couple’s past appears blurred with tears, tighten the chest.
Its wistful melody and Shimakura’s deeply expressive vocals resonate profoundly with listeners.
Released in 1961, the song remains one of Shimakura’s signature works, cherished by many.
While mourning a lost love, it also conveys gratitude for the memories.
It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone who has experienced saying goodbye to someone dear.
LetterSaori Yuki
Saori Yuki’s “Tegami” is a heartfelt breakup song that captures the sorrow of parting.
Its pure vocals and heartrending lyrics tighten the listener’s chest.
The powerful feelings conveyed in the lyrics are something anyone can relate to.
Released in 1970, it became a beloved classic, earning accolades such as the Japan Record Award for Vocal Performance.
Why not listen to this song of memories and take a moment to reminisce about your youth? It would also be lovely to listen together with older adults and let the conversation blossom with stories from those days.