Lively songs recommended for people in their 80s: A collection of nostalgic enka and kayōkyoku
Some of you may have opportunities to enjoy music with people in their 80s among your family or acquaintances but feel at a loss because you don’t know which songs are popular.
In this article, we’ll focus on songs that are especially exciting among those familiar to people in their 80s.
We’ve selected mainly Showa-era kayōkyoku and enka, with an emphasis on up-tempo and cheerful tunes.
Please use this article as a reference and enjoy music together with people in their 80s to create a wonderful time.
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- Easy-to-sing songs recommended for men in their 80s: Showa-era classics to perform at karaoke
- [Karaoke] Recommended Songs for Men in Their 80s: A Collection of Showa-Era Classics You’ll Want to Belt Out
- [Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that get everyone excited. Songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke.
- An encouraging song we want people in their 80s to hear. A cheer song from the Showa era.
- Easy-to-sing songs recommended for women in their 80s: a reference for choosing karaoke tracks!
- Recommended love songs for people in their 80s: A collection of classic love songs that colored the Showa era
Songs that will get people in their 80s excited: A collection of nostalgic enka and kayōkyoku (1–10)
12th graderKazuo Funaki
Kazuo Funaki’s “High School Senior” is a timeless classic and his debut single, released in June 1963.
The lyrics carefully capture the emotions of students in the midst of their youth, beautifully expressing the sentimental feelings that come just before graduation.
Memories of holding hands at folk dances and thoughts about the few remaining days strike a chord.
That same year, Funaki also appeared in a film of the same title, showcasing his talent not only as a singer but also as an actor.
It’s a coming-of-age song that we recommend not only to current high school seniors on the verge of a new chapter in life, but also to adults who once lived through that season.
Kiyoshi's Zundoko SongKiyoshi Hikawa
Released in 2002, this song by Kiyoshi Hikawa became a hit loved by people of all ages thanks to its upbeat rhythm and approachable melody.
While carrying on the traditions of kayōkyoku, it also incorporates pop elements, earning support not only from enka fans but from a wide audience.
It is frequently performed on TV shows and at events, and each time, the way the entire venue comes together in excitement is striking.
It’s a song that lets both older adults and younger generations sing and dance together—a tune that promises a fun, shared moment for everyone.
Ginza Kan-kan GirlHideko Takamine
“Ginza Kankan Musume” is a classic that symbolizes the postwar reconstruction era, with its lively rhythm and Hideko Takamine’s bright, charming vocals.
You can almost picture the young, free-spirited “Kankan girl” spending time on the street corners of Ginza.
Released in 1949, the song sold 500,000 records and became a major hit.
It was created as the theme song for a film of the same name and has long been beloved by many.
It’s a tune I’d especially recommend to people in their 80s who feel nostalgic for the Showa era.
It would be wonderful to sing it together and reminisce about those days.
Lively songs recommended for people in their 80s: A collection of nostalgic enka and kayōkyoku (11–20)
I'm going to Tokyo.Ikuzo Yoshi
A classic song known for its delightful lyrics sung in the Tsugaru dialect and its catchy, rhythmic melody.
Released in November 1984, it became a major hit, reaching No.
4 on the weekly Oricon singles chart.
The humorous portrayal of a country youth dreaming of Tokyo captured the hearts of many.
In 1985, a film of the same title was released, featuring Ikuzo Yoshi himself.
Loved by people of all generations, this work is perfect for singing together—sure to spark conversation and create a fun time for everyone.
festivalSaburō Kitajima
A timeless masterpiece whose vibrant, powerful vocals resonate in the heart.
Released in 1984, this song is themed around Japan’s traditional festivals.
It’s a popular number that has been performed many times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics, which passionately express a man’s way of life and gratitude toward nature, leave a strong impression.
With Kitajima’s fervent singing and dynamic stage production, the song renews our appreciation for the allure of Japanese festivals.
Why not join your voices together and sing it while soaking in the festive atmosphere?
Hello from countries around the worldHaruo Minami
This is one of Haruo Minami’s signature songs, released in 1967.
Embraced as the theme song of Expo ’70 in Osaka, it sold over three million copies.
Minami’s relaxed vocal style pairs beautifully with the bright, forward-looking melody and lyrics.
Singing it together with older listeners will naturally evoke nostalgia while inspiring a wish for friendship among people all around the world.
youthKoichi Morita and Top Gallant
“Seishun Jidai” by Koichi Morita and Top Gallant is a classic that can make people in their 80s feel a rush of youthful memories.
Its bittersweet lyrics and nostalgic melody embody youth itself.
Released in 1976, it became a million-seller within six months and was a major hit that led to an appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1977.
It’s also known as a karaoke standard, cherished and sung across generations.
It’s the perfect song for when you want to bask in nostalgia or reminisce about your youth with friends.
Why not listen together and let the stories of the old days blossom?