Recommended cheer songs for people in their 90s: a collection of timeless tracks that support life
For people in their 90s, many likely enjoy enka and popular songs that represent the Showa era.
In this article, we’ll focus on uplifting anthems among those songs and introduce some recommended picks.
There are many wonderful tracks about life that can serve as a source of strength.
If you’re reading this, please consider recommending the songs we introduce to the 90-year-olds close to you.
They may well rekindle the passion and vitality of their younger days!
Recommended motivational songs for people in their 90s: A collection of timeless tracks that support life (1–10)
Years of Joy and SorrowAkira Wakayama
Akira Wakayama’s “The Joys and the Sorrows Through the Years” is a masterpiece that became a massive hit as the theme song for the 1957 film.
It beautifully portrays the austere yet radiant life of a lighthouse keeper and his wife.
As the seasons change—blizzards in the north, the arrival of spring in the south—the days flow by.
Within that passage of time, joy and sorrow intersect, painting a picture of life itself.
One cannot help but be deeply moved by the couple who live with steadfast resolve and a sense of mission to guard the lighthouse.
Happiness is here.Yoshiko Otsu
Yoshiko Otsu’s “Koko ni Sachi Ari” is a masterpiece that beautifully captures a woman’s way of life.
It sings of the happiness found after overcoming storm-like hardships, conveyed through Otsu’s deeply expressive vocals.
Released in 1956 as a movie theme song, it became an unprecedented smash hit.
Loved not only in Japan but around the world, it is also known as a classic wedding song.
Her voice surely resonates directly with older listeners who know both the hardships and joys of life.
Ah, life has its tearsKotaro Satomi, Tadashi Yokouchi
“Aa, Jinsei ni Namida Ari” is a rousing song that offers comfort through life’s many moments.
Life has both joy and sorrow, but this piece gives you the courage to keep looking forward.
Performed by Kotaro Satomi and Tadashi Yokouchi, it was recorded in 1973 and has been loved across generations ever since.
Known as the theme song of the period drama Mito Komon, it has long been cherished alongside the show.
It’s a song we especially hope people in their 90s, who are facing life’s steep paths, will listen to.
May it help you recall your youthful days and serve as the energy to live powerfully in the present.
The river flows.Miki Nakasone
Miki Nakasone’s “The River Flows” is a classic whose beautiful melody sinks into the listener’s heart, paired with profound lyrics that liken the flow of a river to the course of life.
Upon its release in 1961, it became a major hit, and the following year it was chosen as the theme song for a film of the same name.
The lyrics skillfully depict various phases of life.
While resonating with life’s hardships, the tune also inspires hope for a brighter future, making it a song that will surely offer comfort to those who have passed the midpoint of their lives.
It's morning; feel energized!Mutsuriku Shibata Ryoko Fujiwara
“Asa da Genki de” (Be Cheerful in the Morning) is a classic Showa-era song released in 1941 by Mutsuriku Shibata and Ryoko Fujiwara.
Its bright, refreshing melody is paired with lyrics that vividly depict the sunrise.
The phrase “Let’s all wake up full of energy” conveys the joy of welcoming a hopeful new day.
After the war, parts of the lyrics were revised to reflect more peaceful themes, helping the song gain even wider affection.
With its gentle, warm vocals, it’s a tune that soothes the heart and lifts the spirit when sung together.
Tree-Lined Road of LifeDick Mine
Dick Mine’s “Jinsei no Namikimichi” (The Tree-Lined Road of Life) is a classic that portrays the bond between siblings and the hope that helps us overcome life’s hardships.
It was created in 1937 as the theme song for the Nikkatsu film “The Prosecutor and His Sister,” yet it shines with its own distinct brilliance thanks to its dramatic lyrics and beautiful melody.
I believe it’s a piece that will undoubtedly resonate with older adults who have weathered many difficulties in life.
The loneliness and sorrow of leaving one’s hometown—and the strength to find hope beyond them.
Such universal messages give courage to people of all generations living today.
Over the hillIchiro Fujiyama
Over the Hills is a classic from the early Showa era, powerfully sung by Ichiro Fujiyama with his rich, resonant voice.
Its lyrics symbolically express the hopes and joys of youth, leaving listeners with a refreshing sense of uplift.
Released in 1931, the song became a massive hit, selling over 500,000 copies.
Offering courage to face life’s challenges and take a step toward new stages, this is a song we especially recommend to older adults as they continue their journey through life.