Popular Japanese songs among women in their 40s: recommended classics and standard hits
No matter how many years go by or how many times you listen, the songs you loved in your youth always stir something warm in your heart, don’t they?
In this article, we’ll introduce popular Japanese songs that colored the teenage years of women in their 40s.
We’ve gathered a trove of classics perfect for anyone thinking, “I want to hear that song again,” or “I want to sing the songs I sang as a student at karaoke.”
You’re sure to rediscover the tracks you loved back then!
Even if you’re busy every day with work and household chores, why not take a little break and bask in the memories of your youth?
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Popular Japanese songs among women in their 40s: recommended masterpieces and classics (41–50)
You’re My Only Shinin’ StarMiho Nakayama
It’s a romantic ballad that beautifully portrays a moonlit scene.
The song weaves feelings of a miraculous encounter and a vow of eternal love together with a gentle melody.
Under the starry sky, it’s a graceful tale that will resonate in your heart, making you want to listen while thinking of the one you love.
Miho Nakayama’s clear, translucent voice tenderly embraces an emotionally rich world that spins a story of everlasting love.
Released in February 1988 and crafted by Toshiki Kadomatsu, the piece reached No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
It also left a strong impression as an insert song for the TBS drama “Mama wa Idol!” starring Nakayama, and won the Japan Record Awards Gold Prize.
It’s recommended for moments when you want to step away from the busyness of daily life and savor your gratitude for someone special.
Why not spend a calm moment immersing yourself in this heartwarming, gentle love story?
Popular Japanese songs among women in their 40s: Recommended masterpieces and classic tracks (51–60)
Turn the roulette of fateZARD
A supreme track woven from lyrical lyrics that capture the subtleties of life and a light, buoyant melody.
While questioning the role of fate’s coincidences and the meaning of our choices, it gently reminds us of the importance of facing forward and living on.
Composed by Seiichiro Kuribayashi, it beautifully harmonizes ZARD’s heartwarming message with a refreshing sound.
Since its release in September 1998, it has been beloved as the opening theme of the anime Detective Conan and is also included on the album ZARD BEST The Single Collection: Kiseki.
It’s an uplifting song I’d recommend to anyone hesitating yet ready to take a step forward, or to those who want to move ahead without fearing change.
Lover of MöbiusUshirogami Hikaretai
A lyrical love song that layers an endlessly continuing romance over a Möbius strip.
Though it’s an idol song that sings of eternal love, Yasushi Akimoto’s lyrics, infused with philosophical notions like déjà vu and past lives, harmonize beautifully with Tsugutoshi Gotō’s graceful melody.
Ushirogami Hikaretai released the song in November 1987, and it reached No.
4 on the Oricon charts.
It was also included on the album “BAB” and became well-loved as the ending theme for the Fuji TV anime “Tsuideni Tonchinkan.” It’s a recommended track for twilight dates or when you want to sink into memories of first love.
Savor this gem of a pop tune—brimming with the bittersweet ache of youth—in a moment of quiet.
Ah, what a relief.Hana*Hana
The music duo Hana*Hana gained popularity with their warm, gentle sound.
They have several mega-hits, so I think many women in their 40s remember them.
Among their works, the one I especially recommend is A~ Yokatta.
It’s a classic J-pop ballad, with a gently rising and falling vocal line, a relatively narrow range, and modest long tones—features that make it easy to sing, even for those who aren’t confident singers.
Lion HeartSMAP
For those of us of the same generation who sped through our 20s, 30s, and 40s alongside SMAP, the song “Lion Heart” is even more moving than “The One and Only Flower in the World.” If I remember correctly, the surprise marriage announcement of Takuya Kimura and Shizuka Kudo came right around the time this song became a hit.
Midsummer FruitSouthern All Stars
A ballad depicting poignant summer scenes.
Released in July 1990 by Southern All Stars, this song was created as the theme for the film Inamura Jane, directed by Keisuke Kuwata.
Characterized by its relaxed acoustic sound, it expresses a beautiful, fleeting summer romance.
It was also used in Recruit’s “B-ing” commercial and as insert music for Fuji TV’s Wednesday drama Akuma no KISS.
Recommended for those who want to look back on their youth or feel the bittersweet emotions of a summer love.
Even women busy with work or housework might enjoy listening to this song and recalling a memorable page from their summer.
rainbowMasaharu Fukuyama
Released in August 2003, this song has given listeners hope and courage.
It was chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Water Boys,” and topped the Oricon Singles Chart for five consecutive weeks.
The simultaneously released album “fukuyama masaharu MAGNUM COLLECTION ‘SLOW’” also debuted at No.
1, marking a remarkable achievement: the first time a male solo artist reached No.
1 simultaneously in both the single and album categories.
This work sings of a strong determination to pursue dreams and goals, supported by love and hope.
It’s recommended for moments when you want to pause amid busy days and reflect on your life.
Let the heartfelt lyrics and Masaharu Fukuyama’s warm voice envelop you and recharge your energy for tomorrow.