Recommended love songs for people in their 80s: A collection of classic love songs that colored the Showa era
For people in their 80s, there are surely many love songs from the Showa era that hold deep meaning.
Among enka and popular songs, there are pieces that express a wide range of emotions, and many listeners likely projected their own feelings onto them.
In this article, we’ll introduce timeless love-song classics that we’d love for people in their 80s to revisit now.
If you’re reading this, please consider recommending the songs we introduce to the 80-somethings in your life.
Recommended love songs for people in their 80s: A collection of classic Showa-era love songs (1–10)
love letterSaori Yuki
One of the most iconic songs of the Showa era, it features beautiful lyrics that read like a heartfelt letter to a lover.
The feelings of longing for someone far away and the hope of meeting again truly resonate.
Released in August 1973, it won the Best Vocal Performance at that year’s Japan Record Awards.
It was also performed on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen, capturing the hearts of many.
With Saori Yuki’s clear, crystalline voice, it’s a song that wraps you in gentle warmth.
When you find yourself thinking of someone special, give it a listen.
hopeYoko Kishi
As one of the quintessential songs of the Showa era, it continues to be loved by many to this day.
The protagonist’s poignant longing as they journey in search of hope is conveyed through Yoko Kishi’s crystal-clear vocals.
Released in 1970, the song was featured in a segment of the variety show “Matsuri da! Wasshoi!” and captured viewers’ hearts.
In 1971, it was also selected as the entrance march for the 43rd National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, demonstrating its significant social impact.
Depicting the pursuit of a first love, this song is perfect for those standing at life’s crossroads or reminiscing about someone dear.
Please take a moment to listen to its heartfelt lyrics.
Good Night BabyThe King Tones
“Good Night Baby” by The King Tones is a classic released in 1968.
It’s a doo-wop style song infused with R&B flavors, and the members’ beautiful harmonies really touch the heart.
The lyrics convey the poignancy of saying goodbye while holding onto the hope of true love.
Covered by many renowned artists, it continues to be loved across generations.
It’s great to listen to alone on a quiet night, or to share with someone special.
It’s a wonderful song that lets you bask in nostalgic memories and spend a heartwarming moment.
I loved you, loved you, I ended up falling so in love.Miyoko Tashiro & Hiroshi Wada and The Mahina Stars
A duet by Hiroshi Wada and the Mahina Stars with Miyoko Tashiro, “Aishite Aishite Aishichatta no yo.” It’s a classic that passionately sings of deep love and aching emotion.
The lyrics convey an intense feeling of having fallen in love with you to death, filled with a straightforward, earnest heart.
Released in 1965, it became a million-seller.
It has since been covered by many artists and continues to be loved across generations.
How about listening to it while recalling a youthful romance? It might bring back a warm sense of nostalgia.
Elegy of the Hot Spring TownToshiro Omi
This song, beloved by many as a classic that represents the Showa era, portrays the poignant feelings of a protagonist who, set against the backdrop of their hometown hot spring resort, pursues lost love and dreams.
Released in June 1948, it became an instant smash hit, selling over 400,000 copies.
The following year, a film of the same title was released, cementing the fame of its star, Toshiro Omi.
With Masao Koga’s beautiful guitar tones in perfect harmony with Toshiro Omi’s emotionally rich vocals, this work shines.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to bask in nostalgia or when you’ve experienced a parting with someone dear.
The young coupleKenji Kitahara
One of the iconic songs representing the Showa era is a track by Kenji Kitahara.
It’s characterized by lyrics brimming with youthful dreams and hope, paired with a light, pleasant melody, and it has continued to be loved by many.
Released in June 1962, the song spread nationwide after being featured on NHK’s program “Song of the Day.” For people in their 80s, its lyrics—overlapping with memories of their youth—will surely resonate.
Portraying an attitude of overcoming difficulties by drawing on the power of youth, this piece remains uplifting even today.
It might be nice to listen to it with family or friends and let the conversation blossom with memories from back then.
Flower of PassionThe Peanuts
The Peanuts’ “Flower of Passion” is the theme song of a Japanese kayō (popular song) film released in 1960.
The track is memorable for the beautiful harmonies of the twin sisters and sings of the heartache of an unattainable love.
The memories of the night when they first pledged themselves to each other are vividly expressed as red petals that continue to bloom in the heart.
It was also used as the theme song for the film Flower of Passion, in which The Peanuts themselves appeared.
Why not listen quietly while recalling nostalgic memories? You’ll surely spend a lovely time that resonates in your heart.