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.
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Recommended heartbreak songs for people in their 80s: A collection of classic tracks that depict poignant emotions (21–30)
The Camellia Sasanqua InnEisaku Okawa
Allow me to introduce a masterpiece of enka that portrays a bittersweet love kept secret in the heart.
EISAKU OKAWA’s single, released in August 1982, is a moving work that overlays his feelings onto the camellia blooming in winter.
The lyrics by Osamu Yoshioka and the melody by Shosuke Ichikawa blend beautifully, delicately expressing the emotions of a man swayed by an unattainable love.
Four months after its release, the song entered the Oricon Top 10 for the first time and became one of Okawa’s signature pieces.
It sold a total of 1.
8 million copies and won the Long Seller Award at the 25th Japan Record Awards in 1983, also marking his first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
Its evocative imagery that overlaps with Japan’s beautiful winter scenery, and a voice that holds both ache and warmth, make it a perfect choice for karaoke duets or for humming along while sharing fond memories.
a red handkerchiefYujiro Ishihara
Set against the backdrop of a northern spring, this song tells the story of a bittersweet farewell in love.
Carried by a gentle, lyrical melody, Yujiro Ishihara’s rich vocals vividly portray the lingering feelings of heartbreak.
Released by Teichiku Records in October 1962, the track is also included on the album “Yujiro Ishihara Original 6.” In January 1964, it was used as the theme song for a film of the same name starring Ishihara, captivating the hearts of many alongside the movie.
Even today, it remains a beloved classic that everyone can hum along to and is very popular at karaoke.
With its heartfelt lyrics and approachable melody, it’s the perfect song for singing together and having fun.
Traveler of the NorthYujiro Ishihara
He sings a melancholic song about lost love set in the northern country with Yujiro Ishihara’s distinctive low voice.
As it follows a man searching for his beloved while traveling through Hokkaido cities like Kushiro, Hakodate, and Otaru, it conveys his heartbreaking emotions.
It was also used as an insert song in the drama “Seibu Keisatsu” and was released in August 1987.
For Yujiro Ishihara, it became his first and only single to reach No.
1 on the Oricon charts, topping the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart as well.
As you recall days gone by, try singing it gently and with feeling.
Tangled HairHibari Misora
As her comeback release, Hibari Misora brought out this celebrated song of profound love and sorrow in December 1987.
Set against the backdrop of the Shioyasaki Lighthouse, it sings of unwavering feelings and prayers for someone who has gone away.
Carried by an elegant melody, it masterfully conveys the complex emotions of a woman heartbroken in love.
Recorded in a single take with a full orchestra, the session showcased Hibari Misora’s unparalleled vocal prowess.
It remains a treasured piece, long beloved by many as a song to be heard alongside cherished memories and landscapes.
The Days of Rainbows and SneakersTulip
It is a classic song that leaves a strong impression with its delicate portrayal of youthful love and transience.
The scene of two people embracing in rain-soaked sweatshirts and the tender sentiment of cherishing a pair of sneakers are depicted with gentle warmth.
The lyrics symbolically express the disconnect between a man and a woman, a sudden farewell, and the immaturity of not yet being able to become an adult, all imbued with the bittersweet ache of youth.
Released in 1979 by Tulip, the song drew attention on TV programs such as The Best Ten and Yoru no Hit Studio, gaining popularity as a piece in which folk and pop are beautifully harmonized.
Kazuo Zaitsu’s warm vocals and the beautiful melody will surely comfort those who wish to heal the pain of heartbreak or look back on their cherished memories.
Listening to OliviaAnri
A melody that gently envelops the lingering ache of a bittersweet romance, paired with refined musicianship, resonates deeply in the heart.
The lyrics, which carefully depict a woman healing her delicate emotions after a breakup while listening to Olivia Newton-John’s songs, have struck a chord with many.
With Anri’s clear, translucent vocals giving the piece a sophisticated, urban feel, it was released in November 1978 and included on the album “Anri.” In 2008, it was also featured as an insert song in the Nippon TV drama “Saito-san,” cementing its status as a timeless classic loved across generations.
This warm ballad offers comfort to those trying to recover from the pain of heartbreak and to anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.
Drinks for twoMichiyo Azusa
A bittersweet yet forward-looking breakup song about a couple choosing to end a cherished love.
Set to a gentle melody, it portrays the emotions of lovers who have resolved to part.
Released in March 1974, the song features lyrics by Michio Yamagami and music by Masayuki Hirao, and became a major hit, reaching No.
11 on the Oricon weekly chart.
Their promise to meet again and share drinks when they feel lonely conveys both gratitude for the memories they’ve built and hope for the future.
It’s a song that stays by your side when you want to overcome the pain of heartbreak and find a sense of calm.