Lovely senior life

Breakup songs recommended for people in their 90s: a collection of timeless tracks that comfort the heart

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICKeisuke Hane
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. After working at a music studio and in wedding sound engineering, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with various instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in middle school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on personal music activities and professional experience, produces daily articles, including song introductions, features on music festivals around Japan, and live reports. Enjoys a wide range of music, from domestic and international rock to, more recently, a broad spectrum of J-pop.

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)

Goodbye to teenage loveIchiro Kobe

Goodbye to teenage love

Goodbye to Teenage Love by Ichirō Kōbe

Ichiro Kobe’s “Goodbye to Teenage Love” is a heartbreak song that brings back sweet-and-sour memories of first love.

The image of the protagonist shedding tears by the lakeside is something anyone can relate to.

Released in 1958, the song is also known as Ichiro Kobe’s debut single.

It captured the hearts of young people at the time and has remained a beloved classic.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to reminisce or spend time quietly.

For older listeners, it may rekindle tender memories of their youth.

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I liked it.Koji Tsuruta

I liked it.

Koji Tsuruta, whom I liked

Koji Tsuruta’s “Sukidatta” is a soul-stirring classic that sings of the pain of heartbreak and lingering attachment.

The repeated line “Sukidatta, sukidatta” (“I loved you, I loved you”) conveys a bittersweet longing.

Released in 1956, the song captivated many with Tsuruta’s distinctive vocal style.

His signature way of singing with a hand cupped over his left ear deepens the emotional expression of the piece.

Tsuruta’s rugged charm, also evident in his work as a film actor, shines through in this song as well.

It’s a track that comforts those bearing the pain of a broken heart or reminiscing about a past love.

It may also prompt you to reflect on cherished memories with someone special.

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Melancholy TrainMichiya Mihashi

Melancholy Train

Melancholy Train Michiya Mihashi

The sorrow of having to part with a loved one is portrayed in parallel with the departure of a train.

The emotions likened to the stars in the night sky evoke a deep sense of empathy.

Released in 1956, this song became a massive hit, selling 2.

5 million copies.

While carrying the sadness of farewell, its lyrics also convey hope for a new beginning, offering courage to those standing at a crossroads in life.

It’s a song that gives you the strength to treasure your memories while facing forward and moving on.

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Breakup songs recommended for people in their 90s: A collection of timeless tracks that comfort the heart (11–20)

A hill with a view of the harborAiko Hirano

A hill with a view of the harbor

The Hill Overlooking the Harbor - Aiko Hirano

Aiko Hirano’s “A Hill with a View of the Harbor” is a classic that delicately portrays a wistful love and the scenery of a port town against the backdrop of postwar Japan.

Faded cherry blossoms, ship whistles, and bluish lights glowing on foggy nights are all depicted with poetic nuance.

Hirano’s rich, lustrous voice conveys the pain of heartbreak even more deeply.

Released in 1947, the song has been covered by many artists and continues to be cherished today.

It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to when you revisit nostalgic memories or the romances of your youth.

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It's a love I picked up anyway.Columbia Rose

It's a love I picked up anyway.

After all, it's a love I picked up—Columbia Rose

Columbia Rose’s “Douse Hirotta Koi da Mono” is a classic kayōkyoku song released in 1956.

It also reflects the social background of the time.

Columbia Rose’s powerful voice further enhances the song’s appeal.

Listening to it brings back memories of old romances and fills one with nostalgia.

It might be nice to listen together with older adults and let conversations blossom about their youthful days.

With lyrics that resonate in the heart and a beautiful melody, it’s sure to warm your heart.

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Chako Vanished into the Night FogFrank Nagai

Chako Vanished into the Night Fog

Chako in the Night Fog, Vanished — Frank Nagai

Frank Nagai’s “Chako Lost in the Night Fog” is a classic breakup song released in 1959.

The lyrics tell of the narrator’s heart-wrenching sorrow after Chako, an innocent young woman working at a bar, suddenly disappears.

You can feel the narrator’s strong longing for her return, even as he understands Chako’s feelings.

Frank Nagai’s captivating low voice adds depth to the song’s world.

Listening to it with older adults might spark lively conversations about memories from their youth.

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Goodbye Comes After the DanceChieko Baisho

Goodbye Comes After the Dance

Goodbye Comes After the Dance by Chieko Baisho

Chieko Baisho’s “Sayonara wa Dansu no Ato ni” is a classic that beautifully portrays the poignant moment of farewell.

Released in 1965, this song has become a memorable heartbreak anthem for many.

The image of two people creating their final memory through a dance is deeply moving.

Listening to it with a sense of nostalgia may prompt you to look back on past romances.

I hope it can be a comforting song for older listeners who have experienced parting with someone dear.

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