Popular Japanese songs among women in their 50s: recommended classics and staple tracks

Sailor Suit and Machine GunHiroko Yakushimaru

Hiroko Yakushimaru – Sailor Suit and Machine Gun (Live)

Hiroko Yakushimaru, who has been active as an actress since the late 1970s and also gained popularity as a singer, is best represented by her 1981 debut single “Sailor Suit and Machine Gun.” Used as the theme song for a film, the track reached its highest position on the Oricon charts, thanks to Yakushimaru’s pure, crystalline vocals and a melody that evokes the bittersweetness of youth.

Among the hit songs of the 1980s, it possesses a distinctive allure.

While the lyrics depict parting and setting out toward new hope, they are interwoven with the complexities of emotions between men and women, resonating deeply with listeners.

For women in their 50s, it will surely bring back memories of their younger days and perhaps offer new discoveries as well.

SWEET MEMORIESSeiko Matsuda

SWEET MEMORIES ~Sweet Memories~ Music Video (YouTube Edit)

Seiko Matsuda’s “SWEET MEMORIES,” with its bittersweet yet warm melody that sinks into the heart, is a timeless classic beloved across generations.

The song offers both nostalgia and freshness, endearing it to listeners of many ages.

Its dramatic lyrical world draws you in, while the gentle tune softly envelops your ears.

Even after many years, its unfading beauty is a key reason it resonates with a wide audience, including those in their 50s.

Let yourself sway to the relaxed rhythm and enjoy a memorable moment.

This is a song I especially recommend to anyone who hasn’t taken the time to truly savor music lately.

powder snowRemioromen

Remioromen – Powder Snow

Speaking of Remioromen’s “Konayuki,” it was released in 2005 and used as an insert song for the Fuji TV drama “1 Litre of Tears,” making it a classic that almost everyone has heard.

Ryota Fujimaki’s lyrically rich words delicately portray lost love and earnest longing, resonating deeply with listeners.

The scenes that evoke winter’s loneliness and our bonds with others pile up like snowflakes drifting down.

For many women in their 50s in particular, it may evoke a nostalgic feeling reminiscent of their youth.

While it’s a surefire hit at karaoke, it’s also a piece you’ll want to savor in quiet moments.

Alongside Fujimaki’s clear, transparent vocals, the poignant atmosphere Remioromen creates will reach your heart through all five senses.

foreignerSaki Kubota

Saki Kubota "Ihōjin" Animated Music Video

Saki Kubota’s biggest hit song, “Ihoujin.” Chances are, everyone has sung this piece at least once.

Because the vocal range is fairly wide, many people may feel it’s difficult, but the truth is the vocal line is quite simple.

If the height makes it hard to sing, adjust the key so you can use chest voice—not mixed voice—for the high phrases in the A section and the chorus.

Doing so will also make it much easier to keep your pitch in check.

Tomorrow never knowsMr.Children

Mr.Children 「Tomorrow never knows」 MUSIC VIDEO

In “Tomorrow never knows,” Mr.

Children depicted the youthful purity that shines brighter with the times, along with the struggles one faces in the midst of growing up.

Set to a solid, memorable melody, this song captures the fleeting nature of youth and has continued to be loved by many fans since its 1994 release.

For women in their 50s, it likely brings back bittersweet memories from their school days.

At the same time, with its availability on streaming platforms starting in 2018, it’s expected to be passed down to a wider range of generations.

As a karaoke staple, be sure to sing this track for a fun time with friends.

Don't give upZARD

Don't Give Up – ZARD (Full)

With its heartwarming melody and powerful lyrics, “Makenaide” resonates deeply with many people.

This song inspires courage in listeners and gives them a push when taking on challenges.

Known as a karaoke classic, it has long been loved across generations.

For women in their 50s in particular, this memorable anthem—etched into their youth—evokes poignant memories and imparts renewed strength.

It also makes for a deeply resonant soundtrack during relaxing time at home or on a drive.

RobinsonSpitz

Spitz / Robinson

Released in 1995 and quickly becoming a million-seller, Robinson is one of Spitz’s signature songs.

Its lyrics depict scenes like riding a bicycle and small moments of everyday life.

Rather than simple nostalgia, it expresses a universal feeling that anyone can relate to, conveyed through Spitz’s uniquely gentle sound.

In particular, the fact that this song was released in 1995—against the backdrop of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake—left a deep resonance in people’s hearts.

Their music transcends time and is moving even for women in their 50s.

It’s also a perfect choice for karaoke—a nostalgic classic that’s fun to sing.