Breakup songs recommended for people in their 90s: a collection of timeless tracks that comfort the heart
In this article, I’ll introduce recommended breakup songs from around the 1950s to 1960s—music that should feel familiar to people in their 90s.
Even among the songs of that era, there are many that depict bittersweet feelings of love, resonating with the hearts of young people at the time.
If you’re reading this, please consider recommending the songs below to a 90-something loved one.
I’d be delighted if they spark memories of the past and encourage stories from their youthful days.
Now, let’s dive right into the recommended tracks!
Breakup songs recommended for people in their 90s: a collection of heartwarming classics (1–10)
Parting Cedar (Farewell Cedar)Kasuga Hachirō
Kasuga Hachirō’s signature song “Wakare no Ippon Sugi” is a masterpiece that sings of a heartrending farewell between lovers.
A single cedar tree is portrayed as a symbol of unchanging, everlasting memories.
Released during Japan’s postwar reconstruction period, the song beautifully expressed people’s nostalgia and their longing for a lost past, resonating deeply with many listeners.
It was released in 1955 and became a massive hit, selling 500,000 copies at the time.
It was later adapted into a film, in which Kasuga himself also appeared.
This is a song we especially recommend to seniors who have experienced cherished memories or farewells with loved ones.
Its heartfelt vocals are sure to inspire empathy.
farewell payphoneKeiko Matsuyama
Keiko Matsuyama’s classic “Farewell at the Payphone” portrays a poignant scene of parting.
Set at a payphone in a café at the station, the song depicts the protagonist telling their partner goodbye.
The lyrics, woven with love and anguish, are a must-hear.
Released in 1959, the song was also used as an insert track in the film “I Told You So.” For older listeners who have experienced a breakup, it may be a song that prompts a nostalgic look back on their youth.
Tokyo ElegyMichiko Sanjo
Machiko Sanjo’s “Tokyo Elegy” is a song distinguished by its deep emotional expression, centered on themes of lost love and loneliness.
Released in 1951, it beautifully depicts the solitude of the city and the melancholy of heartbreak.
Sanjo’s unique vocal timbre and expressive power harmonize impressively with the emotionally rich lyrics.
Vivid scenes—such as memories that surface when you close your eyes and the sense of despair in the rain—resonate deeply with listeners.
Listening to it with older adults might spark lively conversations about memories from their youth.
It promises a lovely, comforting time that evokes the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era.
Cry not, little dove.Haruo Oka
Accompanied by Haruo Oka’s captivating vocals, the song portrays the feelings of a man reluctant to say goodbye.
Released in 1947, shortly after the war, it resonated with many people and was featured in films and dramas.
It’s recommended for those who have experienced parting or who wish to reflect on memories with someone dear.
Listening to this song may bring back nostalgic memories.
With its heartfelt lyrics and Haruo Oka’s soothing voice, it’s sure to offer a chance to look back on life.
In the corner of a caféUtako Matsushima
Utako Matsushima’s “In the Corner of a Café” is a touching classic released in 1955.
Under a soft light, it evokes quiet moments spent listening to Chopin’s nocturnes.
Along with the scattering red roses, memories of a past love stir the heart.
Matsushima’s warm vocals accentuate the nostalgia and poignancy, resonating deeply with listeners.
For older adults, it’s a song that brings back memories of their youth.
It will likely remind you of cherished times spent with someone special in a café and fill you with calm.
Why not relax with a cup of tea and listen to it slowly?
The Night of the Dance PartyIsao Hayashi
Isao Hayashi’s “Dance Party Night” is a classic heartbreak song released in 1950.
The lyrics portray a sweet yet bittersweet love with a woman he met at a dance party, tightening the chest with emotion.
Its relaxed rhythm and Hayashi’s gentle yet powerful vocals really sink into the heart.
The song has also been used in films and TV dramas, and has been widely loved.
Listening to it while recalling an old romance may bring back nostalgic memories of your youth.
Black petalsHiroshi Mizuhara
Hiroshi Mizuhara’s “Kuroi Hanabira” (Black Petals) is a classic breakup song, sung in a sweet, low register.
Its lyrics, depicting the pain and loneliness of love, are enough to make your heart tighten.
Released in 1959, it won the very first Japan Record Award.
Remarkably, Mizuhara remains the only artist to have won the grand prize in his debut year.
He also appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen for three consecutive years, dominating the era.
It’s a song sure to resonate with anyone who’s been hurt in love.
Along with nostalgic memories, it may prompt you to look back on how you felt back then.