A collection of moving, tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 90s—heartfelt tunes that resonate with the soul.
For people in their 90s, songs released in the Showa era likely left a deep and lasting impression.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of moving, tear-jerking classics from the Showa period.
From songs about heartbreak to those that celebrate family bonds, each piece conveys its own range of emotions.
When recommending songs to women in their 90s, it would be great to suggest them along with the lyric sheets.
I hope this becomes an opportunity to find songs that resonate with their own experiences and memories, moving their hearts.
Tear-jerking songs recommended for women in their 90s: A collection of moving, heart-touching songs (1–10)
Ah, the night in Muntinlupa deepensHamako Watanabe
Hamako Watanabe’s “Ah, The Night in Muntinlupa Deepens” is a classic that resonated deeply with the hearts of postwar Japanese.
Its poignant lyrics, which sing of the homesickness felt by Japanese war criminals confined in a Philippine internment camp, are profoundly moving.
Set to a gently reflective ballad, the song tenderly expresses longing for family and hometown, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
Released in September 1952, it became a major hit, selling over 200,000 copies.
Its influence was significant, even contributing to the eventual repatriation of all detainees.
For elderly people who experienced the war, it may be a song that brings back memories and emotions from that time.
Ai-chan as a brideMieko Suzuki
Mieko Suzuki’s “Ai-chan wa Oyome ni” is a heartwarming song released in 1956.
It sold 180,000 copies at the time and went on to surpass a cumulative total of 700,000 copies by 1968, becoming a major hit.
It was even adapted into a film in 1957, capturing the hearts of many.
For older listeners, this song may be a special piece that brings back memories of their youth or their own weddings.
It promises a lovely time filled with nostalgia, helping listeners once again feel the bonds they share with their loved ones.
Tokyo ElegyMikiko Sanjo
Michiko Sanjo’s “Tokyo Elegy” is a masterpiece that sings of the postwar melancholy of Tokyo.
Released in 1951, it became a major hit on the music scene of the time.
For older listeners, it may be a song that overlaps with memories of their youth.
The depictions of rain and scenes like the Nikolai Cathedral further accentuate the loneliness of the city.
It’s a song I especially recommend to those who have experienced parting with someone dear, or who wish to reminisce about their younger days.
Mother on the QuayAkiko Kikuchi
Akiko Kikuchi’s “Mother on the Wharf” is a classic that sings of a mother’s heartrending feelings after the war.
The image of a mother standing on the pier day after day, waiting for her distant son to return, tightens the heart.
In the lyrics, which repeatedly cling to hope, the mother’s tenacity and despair are powerfully expressed.
Symbolizing the tragedy of war and the bonds of family, this song continues to be passed down and sung by many people even today.
Why not listen to it while thinking of someone dear to you?
Sad WhistleHibari Misora
Hibari Misora’s “Kanashiki Kuchibue” (The Sad Whistle) is a classic that poignantly sings of a breakup and the loneliness that follows.
Set against the backdrop of Gion’s summer festival, it portrays the feelings of someone harboring an unfulfilled love while trying to remain stoic, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released on September 10, 1949, it was also used as the theme song for Hibari Misora’s first starring film when she was just 12 years old.
Selling an astonishing 450,000 copies, it became a major milestone in her singing career.
For many older listeners, it may overlap with memories of their youth.
Why not let a sense of nostalgia wash over you and take your time immersing yourself in the world of its lyrics?
In the flow of the starsAkiko Kikuchi
“Hoshi no Nagare ni” is a classic in which Akiko Kikuchi’s soulful voice resounds.
Set amid the turmoil of the postwar era, it beautifully depicts a woman’s feelings as she tries to look forward despite sorrow and loneliness.
Its graceful melody and deeply emotional lyrics sink into the heart and offer solace to listeners.
Since its release in 1947, the song has continued to be loved by many.
One of its charms is that it has been covered by numerous singers, including Mina Aoe and Sayuri Ishikawa.
Give it a listen when you want to reflect on nostalgic memories or need a song that stays close to your heart.
The Ferry of TearsHarumi Miyako
Harumi Miyako’s signature song “Namida no Renkakusen” (The Ferry of Tears) is a classic that sings of a heartrending love.
The sound of the ship’s whistle echoing through a lonely night is used as a symbol that brings back memories of a lost love.
Combined with Miyako’s powerful vocals, it’s a song that resonates deeply with listeners.
Since its release in 1964, it has continued to be loved by many.
Through the universal theme of a relationship’s end, its relatable lyrics may overlap with the life experiences of older listeners.
I hope you’ll take your time enjoying the song while reminiscing about fond memories.