RAG Musicrecreation
Lovely senior life
search

[Karaoke] Recommended Songs for Men in Their 80s: A Collection of Showa-Era Classics You’ll Want to Belt Out

Some of you may have chances to enjoy karaoke with people in their 80s—whether at family or relatives’ gatherings, or as recreation at a care facility.

In those situations, many might wonder, “What songs should I sing?” In this article, we’ll introduce songs popular among men in their 80s to help anyone who’s unsure about song selection.

We hope this will be useful not only for finding songs that people in their 80s will enjoy singing, but also as a reference for younger generations who will be singing together.

Now, let’s take a look at the recommended songs!

[Karaoke] Recommended songs for men in their 80s: A collection of classic Showa-era hits you’ll want to belt out (21–30)

That girl and IYukio Hashi

It’s a lively, heart‑thumping tune by Yukio Hashi that captures the feeling of summer’s arrival.

Just listening to it conjures up vivid scenes of the bustling summers of that era.

The bright melody conveys the beaming smiles of young people and the heat of excitement as they enjoyed the swim dance that was popular at the time.

Released in June 1965, this was Hashi’s 68th single.

It became a major hit, selling 710,000 copies in less than two months, and he performed it on that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It was even adapted into a film and used in a swimsuit commercial that aired in households across the country.

For older listeners, it likely brings back the thrill of those summers along with fond memories.

If everyone hums along together, smiles will come naturally and conversation is sure to flow.

Tokyo RhapsodyIchiro Fujiyama

Tokyo Rhapsody, nostalgic song, Tokyo
Tokyo Rhapsody Ichiro Fujiyama

A classic song representing 1936 (Showa 11) was born in a work set in Ginza, Kanda, Asakusa, and Shinjuku, portrayed in a pure and light foxtrot style.

Ichiro Fujiyama’s beautiful voice elegantly sings of urban scenes and a love story.

This piece, which vividly brings to mind the bustling districts of Tokyo at the time, became a massive hit, selling 350,000 copies.

It was Fujiyama’s first release after moving to Teichiku, and a film of the same title was later produced, cementing its status as a beloved song that symbolizes the Showa era.

It’s a perfect track for a calm moment or when reminiscing about the past.

Enjoy a heartwarming time discussing what Tokyo was like back then together with older listeners.

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.

Words of FarewellKaientai

Kaientai - Okuru Kotoba (Words of Farewell)
Farewell Words by Kaientai

It’s a beloved song with a gentle melody that accompanies moments of departure and farewell, carrying a warm message.

It carefully speaks to life lessons such as “loving someone deeply,” “accepting sorrow through tears,” and “trusting others and moving forward.” The lyrics were written by Kaientai’s leader, Tetsuya Takeda, based on a heartbreak he experienced in college, and the many words that strike the heart are especially compelling.

Released as a single in November 1979, it was chosen as the theme song for the first season of the TBS drama Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3B, starring Tetsuya Takeda.

For older adults who have experienced the loss of a family member, it is sure to be a song that resonates deeply.

By reminiscing together or keeping time with handclaps to the melody, everyone can share a peaceful moment.

Winter LightningAlice

This masterpiece, featuring a powerful and emotionally rich vocal performance, was released as a single in November 1977.

Showcasing Alice’s full appeal, the song masterfully fuses folk and rock.

While painting a refreshing winter scene, it warmly sings of the subtle emotions everyone experiences.

A classic that reached No.

2 on the Oricon charts, it was also used as an insert song in TV dramas and films, and is known as one of Alice’s signature works.

Its enduring charm remains undimmed, evoking memories of time spent with loved ones and nostalgic landscapes.

It’s a perfect choice to request when you’re taking it easy at karaoke with friends.

Beach of MemoriesThe Wild Ones

The Wild Ones - Shore of Memories (with lyrics)
The Beach of Memories — The Wild Ones

Beloved as a heartwarming song with the refreshing tone of a 12-string guitar and gentle lyrics depicting memories by the seaside, this track is a hallmark of the Group Sounds (GS) boom.

Created by members Shigeki Torizuka and Kunihiko Kase, it was released in November 1966 and sold over one million copies.

It was also used as the opening theme for the TV Asahi drama “Private Railway Police 97” (Shitetsu Ensen 97 Bunsho), remaining in the memories of many.

Its bright, transparent melody and wonderful lyrics that sing of beautiful summer scenes and youth make it perfect for humming along with friends and family.

It’s also easy to sing with gusto at karaoke thanks to its breezy feel, sure to spark lively reminiscences.

It was rainy again in Nagasaki today.Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five

Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five “It Was Rainy Again in Nagasaki Today” OFFICIAL Lyric Video
Yō Uchiyamada and the Cool Five - Nagasaki Was Rainy Again Today

A masterpiece that stands as a monument of mood kayō (Japanese mood music), deeply etched in many people’s hearts.

Its beautiful melody infused with sorrow and wistfulness, along with Kiyoshi Maekawa’s richly expressive vocals, leaves a strong impression.

Evoking the emotional scenery of Kyushu and the ache of a broken heart, the song lingers deeply with listeners.

Released in February 1969, this single marked the major-label debut of Hiroshi Uchiyamada and the Cool Five.

It reached No.

2 on the Oricon charts and won the New Artist Award at that year’s Japan Record Awards.

It was also featured in a joint commercial by Nagasaki Prefecture and JF Nagasaki (the fisheries cooperative), contributing to regional promotion.

The song has continued to be covered by many artists, including Hibari Misora and Sayuri Ishikawa.

It’s a track you’ll want to enjoy at karaoke with dear friends, wrapped in fond memories.