Uplifting songs recommended for a man in his 90s—positive tunes to boost his spirits

Man BoatMika Jinno

Man Boat

Mika Jinno’s powerful voice echoes through “Otokobune.” This song, which celebrates the bravery of fishermen on the raging Northern Seas, leaves you deeply moved by the lives of men who face the ocean at the risk of their lives.

Shosuke Ichikawa’s dynamic melody perfectly matches Yō Yashiro’s lyrics depicting a man’s life and death, love and parting.

Released on October 6, 2021, the track is an anthem that reminds us of the courage to confront harsh nature and the love we hold for our families.

It’s a song I especially recommend to those being tossed by the rough waves of life or thinking of someone dear.

Look up at the stars in the nightKyu Sakamoto

Kyu Sakamoto – Look Up at the Stars in the Night (with lyrics)

Beloved as a song for gazing up at the night sky, this piece resonates as a warm cheer for those facing hardships.

With lyrics by Rokusuke Ei and music by Taku Izumi, it has long been cherished in the enveloping voice of Kyu Sakamoto.

Released as a single in May 1963, it was originally written as the theme song for a musical.

It is also a celebrated masterpiece that won the Japan Record Award for Composition.

Though born as a message of encouragement for young people studying at night school, it is a song that transcends generations to bring hope and courage.

It’s perfect for everyone to sing together during recreation time at the facility.

There's always tomorrowKyu Sakamoto

With Lyrics: There’s Always Tomorrow – Kyu Sakamoto

This song conveys a positive message about moving forward with an upbeat, cheerful melody, and Kyu Sakamoto’s warm vocals make a strong impression.

Even when things don’t go well, it celebrates the strength to never give up, sung with a refreshing voice full of energy.

Released as a single in December 1963, it was also used as the theme song for a Nippon TV variety show.

At the time of its release, it sold over 800,000 copies and has continued to be loved across generations, later even appearing in Kyoiku Shuppan’s music textbooks.

This work is recommended for older listeners who wish to spend a heartwarming moment wrapped in nostalgia.

It would be wonderful to hum along, immersed in memories, while being enveloped by Kyu Sakamoto’s gentle singing voice.

As long as the sun is in the skyAkira Nishikino

As Long as There Is a Sun in the Sky / Akira Nishikino (with lyrics)

This song, distinguished by its bright and refreshing melody, is a signature work by Dan Nishikino that sings of eternal love and hope.

Released in 1971, it became a major hit, reaching No.

3 on the weekly Oricon charts, and was also performed at that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its central message—“Let’s keep looking forward and walking ahead”—offers wonderful encouragement that resonates particularly with older adults.

Filled with nostalgia, it’s also perfect for recreational activities that get people moving in an enjoyable way.

It’s a song that everyone can sing together to feel energized and share a truly delightful time.

Hanjirō of the Hakone Eight RiKiyoshi Hikawa

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Hanzirō of Hakone Hachiri [Official]

With its signature catchphrase, Kiyoshi Hikawa’s debut single “Hakonê Hachiri no Hanjirō” quickly became widely known.

Beyond his powerful vocals, his handsome looks won broad acceptance among younger women who had previously been less interested in enka, propelling him to instant nationwide stardom.

The song’s phrases function as a call-and-response with fans, reportedly creating an electrifying atmosphere at concerts.

Thanks to this, the song is widely recognized and enjoys great popularity at karaoke.

It’s also sure to liven up recreational activities at senior care facilities.

Brother ShipsIchiro Toba

Brother Ship - Ichiro Toba

This is a masterpiece of enka that powerfully expresses the deep bond among fisherman brothers and their devotion to family.

Tetsurō Funamura’s grand melody blends with Tetsurō Hoshino’s moving lyrics, while Ichirō Toba’s rugged vocals bring out the work’s full appeal.

Because Ichirō Toba himself has real-life fishing experience, the pride and spirit of men of the sea come through vividly.

Released in August 1982, the song sold over 290,000 copies on the Oricon charts and won the Newcomer Award at the 16th All Japan Cable Broadcasting Awards.

It has also been performed seven times on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen, earning strong support from enka fans.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing and highly recommended for karaoke that stirs the heart.

Choo-choo trainLyrics by Kaoru Tomihara / Music by Shin Kusakawa

[Military Song] 🎌 'The Soldiers’ Train'

This is a memorable piece crafted by Kaoru Tomihara and Shin Kusakawa that brings back nostalgic memories.

Its charm lies in the lively melody that evokes the passing scenery outside the window and the rhythmic sounds of a train in motion.

Released in 1937, the song has been cherished by many and was selected in 2007 as one of the “100 Best Japanese Songs.” As a masterpiece representing children’s songs around the world, it has been covered by numerous artists, including Masako Kawada.

How about livening up a music recreation session by sharing stories about trains? It could be a wonderful time to share the nostalgic views from train windows in your memories, especially together with older adults.