Great songs recommended for people in their 80s: a collection of tracks with lyrics that touch the heart
When it comes to songs familiar to people in their 80s, wouldn’t it be the kayōkyoku and enka hits from the Showa era? Many songs from that time have been loved across generations, and there are countless timeless classics that still shine today.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide array of moving, heartfelt songs all at once—Showa masterpieces as well as school songs and children’s songs.
From songs about deep love to ones about family and hometown, these are sure to resonate with people in their 80s.
Please do recommend the songs we introduce to the 80-somethings around you.
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Good Songs Recommended for People in Their 80s: A Collection of Tracks with Touching, Heartfelt Lyrics (21–30)
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.
When I turn around, the Sea of JapanHiroshi Itsuki
A gem of a song that portrays a person who, despite inner confusion and loneliness, still strives to face forward, set against the desolate winter scenery of the Sea of Japan.
Released in March 2005, this work features lyrics by Hiroshi Itsuki and novelist Hiroyuki Itsuki, from whom the singer’s stage name is derived.
Hiroshi Itsuki’s emotionally rich vocals harmonize beautifully with sentiments of longing for one’s hometown and the resolve not to forget past love, earning the song 14th place on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was also performed at the 56th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, and the album “Hiroyuki Itsuki & Hiroshi Itsuki Song Collection ~If You Look Back, the Sea of Japan~” was released.
It is a song that offers comfort to those living away from their hometowns, inviting listeners to reflect on the places of their memories.
Great songs recommended for people in their 80s: a collection of tracks with moving, heartfelt lyrics (31–40)
festivalSaburō Kitajima
This is a song that powerfully sings of the scenes and emotions of traditional Japanese festivals.
Its grand lyrics—expressing gratitude for the blessings of the mountains and bountiful catches, as well as the bonds between parents and children—leave a strong impression.
Vivid imagery depicts men tightening white fundoshi as they head to the festival, and seafaring men raising flags as they row their boats out to sea.
Released in November 1984, the piece features lyrics by Saburo Kitajima with Rei Nakanishi, and composition by Joji Hara.
It was performed six times on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen, serving as the grand finale five of those times, and has become a year-end tradition.
Saburo Kitajima’s uniquely powerful vocals and dynamic staging make it a wonderful work to enjoy together with older audiences.
YosakuSaburō Kitajima
This song celebrates the quiet life of a mountain village and the kindness of its people.
Its powerful melody and heartwarming story, which express Japan’s traditional values and an honest way of living, have moved many listeners.
Saburo Kitajima’s warmly human vocals leave an even deeper impression of that world.
Released in March 1978, the song has remained beloved across generations.
It’s a perfect piece for everyone to hum together during music time at care facilities or to liven up seasonal events.
Waltz of StarlightMasao Sen
Known as a masterpiece that gently sings a heartrending love story, Masao Sen’s work was released in March 1966 and gradually drew significant attention.
The delicate lyrics by Sonoe Shiratori and the beautiful melody crafted by Minoru Endo harmonize wonderfully, making it a gem that resonates with the heart.
Set to a waltz rhythm, it tenderly depicts the protagonist’s complex feelings as they resolve to part with their beloved.
Spreading by word of mouth through cable broadcasting, it achieved an astonishing 2.
5 million sales.
Its gentle, nostalgic melody invites humming along and remains a beloved classic that many people still enjoy singing together today.
Brother ShipsIchiro Toba
This is a masterpiece of enka that powerfully expresses the deep bond among fisherman brothers and their devotion to family.
Tetsurō Funamura’s grand melody blends with Tetsurō Hoshino’s moving lyrics, while Ichirō Toba’s rugged vocals bring out the work’s full appeal.
Because Ichirō Toba himself has real-life fishing experience, the pride and spirit of men of the sea come through vividly.
Released in August 1982, the song sold over 290,000 copies on the Oricon charts and won the Newcomer Award at the 16th All Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.
It has also been performed seven times on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, earning strong support from enka fans.
With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing and highly recommended for karaoke that stirs the heart.
a red handkerchiefYujiro Ishihara
This is a narrative song that gently portrays the spring scenery of Japan’s northern country.
Against a backdrop of blooming acacia flowers, Yujiro Ishihara’s voice, depicting a bittersweet parting in love, leaves a deep, lingering resonance that touches the heart.
Released by Teichiku Records in October 1962, the work created a major buzz at the time.
In January 1964, it was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name starring Yujiro Ishihara, captivating many audiences alongside the movie.
Why not hum along and relive fond memories together? You’re sure to spend a lovely time as you recall days gone by.
Please enjoy a relaxing moment immersed in music under the gentle spring sunshine.