Tear-jerking songs for men in their 80s: a collection of timeless masterpieces that touch the heartstrings
For men in their 80s, many are deeply familiar with Showa-era pop and enka.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of moving classics from the Showa period that are sure to resonate with men in their 80s.
From heartrending romances and mutual, pure love to family bonds and farewells with loved ones, we’ve chosen songs that each carry their own story.
We hope this will be helpful for those in their 80s reading this, or for anyone who wants to gift a wonderful song to someone dear in their 80s.
Be sure to read the lyrics of each song and feel the emotions woven into them.
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Tear-jerking songs for men in their 80s to listen to: a collection of moving masterpieces (1–10)
Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenEigo Kawashima
Woven with words and melodies that touch the heart, “Sake, Tears, Men and Women” is a classic that portrays men and women struggling amid life’s sorrow and loneliness.
You can’t help but empathize with those who entrust their unspoken feelings to drink and tears.
Released in 1975, it gained nationwide recognition after being featured in a Kizakura commercial, and it was also used as an insert song in the TBS drama “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3B.” Whether you’re facing a turning point in life or wanting to remember someone dear, this song continues to be loved by many as a tune that stays close to such moments.
Gardenia blossomTetsuya Watari
Tetsuya Watari’s “Kuchinashi no Hana” is a masterpiece among masterpieces that sings of lost love and the memories it leaves behind.
It portrays a man who, upon seeing gardenia flowers, recalls a former lover and reminisces about their time together.
In Watari’s deep, resonant voice, the song conveys the fragile lingering feelings of a man who ended the relationship himself, striking a chord with listeners.
Released in 1973, it became a major hit, ranking seventh on the following year’s annual chart.
It also earned Watari his first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and was chosen as the theme song for a Toei film in which he starred.
This is a heartfelt track we especially recommend to those who have passed the midpoint of life and find themselves looking back with nostalgia.
brandy glassYujiro Ishihara
A classic love song whose lyrics overflow with Yoko Yamaguchi’s feelings of romance, beautifully colored by Mitsuru Kotani’s melody.
The lyrics, depicting a delicate woman’s heart and the course of love, gain even greater depth through Yujiro Ishihara’s powerful, richly expressive vocals.
Released in 1977, this piece can be considered indispensable in Ishihara’s singing career.
Intoxicated by love yet sensing the sorrow of an impending farewell—this is a work I especially recommend to adults who wish to savor such complex emotions.
Tearjerker songs for men in their 80s: A collection of timeless tracks that touch the heart (11–20)
Withered Pampas Grass of the Showa EraSakura and Ichiro
Sakura and Ichiro’s rendition of the Showa-era classic “Showa Kare Susuki” leaves a strong impression with its melody and lyrics that convey the strength not to succumb to poverty or loneliness.
While carrying the burden of life’s hardships, the resolve of the two to overcome them together is deeply moving.
Since its release in 1974, it became a massive hit after being used as an insert song in the TBS drama “Jikan Desu yo Showa Gannen.” It went on to sell 1.
5 million copies, becoming a million-seller.
It’s a song widely beloved by those who lived through the Showa period, especially men in their 80s.
It offers courage through its portrayal of life’s harshness and the strength to keep going without giving up.
Kanda RiverPrincess Kaguya
Among the many famous songs created by Kaguyahime, this is one of the most well-known signature tracks.
Released in September 1973, it became a huge hit, selling 1.
6 million copies.
With lyrics by Tadashi Kitajō and music by Kosetsu Minami, it beautifully portrays the romance and emotions of young people at the time.
The lyrics delicately depict days full of happiness despite poverty, as well as the poignancy of parting—continuing to move many listeners even today.
It is a timeless classic that those who feel nostalgic for the Showa era should definitely listen to.
Farewell, my loverMasaaki Sakai
“Saraba Koibito” is a classic that poignantly sings of the sorrow of parting with a lover.
Repeating “it was my fault,” the protagonist’s regret at not recognizing the happiness they had resonates deeply.
Released in May 1971 as Masakazu Sakai’s solo debut single, the song has since been covered by many artists and remains beloved across generations.
It’s a track I particularly recommend to those who have experienced a breakup or who want to cherish the everyday moments with someone important.
Sakai’s tender yet powerful vocals will surely seep into your heart.
MoonlightMasahiro Kuwana
Masahiro Kuwana’s “Tsuki no Akari,” released in 1978, is a quintessential masterpiece of Japanese rock-kayō.
His soulful vocals and poetic lyrics, which tenderly convey the pain of heartbreak and parting, are sure to resonate with listeners in their 80s.
It’s a classic ballad you’ll want to hear during long-distance breakup scenes or farewells with someone dear.
Illuminated by moonlight and holding thoughts of a loved one close, it’s the perfect song for taking a new step forward.