Recommended autumn songs for people in their 70s: A collection of nostalgic fall tunes
There are all kinds of autumn-themed songs—tracks with “September” in the title or lyrics, songs centered on autumnal plants like cosmos and pampas grass, and pieces that tell various stories set in the fall.
In this article, I’ll introduce songs that are perfect for autumn, especially recommended for people in their 70s.
Focusing mainly on music from the 1970s, I’ve selected a range of songs that depict autumn in different ways, so please look for an autumn song that resonates with you.
I also recommend listening while reading the lyrics—you’ll be able to immerse yourself even more deeply in each song’s world.
Autumn songs recommended for people in their 70s. A roundup of nostalgic fall songs (1–10)
red dragonflyNEW!Lyrics by Rofū Miki / Music by Kōsaku Yamada
This is a nostalgic work that layers feelings of longing for childhood while gazing up at a red dragonfly flying in the sunset sky.
Rofu Miki infused the poem with memories of his hometown in Hyogo Prefecture, and Kosaku Yamada set it to a beautiful melody.
The poem was published in 1921 and set to music in 1927, and it has been sung across generations ever since.
It was featured in the 1955 film “Koko ni Izumi Ari” and on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1965, and has long been widely cherished.
On an autumn evening, why not hum it as you watch the red dragonflies by the window? Its gentle triple-meter melody is easy to sing, and if you gather to sing it together, it’s sure to spark fond reminiscences.
wild chrysanthemumNEW!Lyrics by Nobuo Ishimori / Music by Nobuo Ishimori
This is a 1942 children’s song with lyrics by Nobuo Ishimori and music by Kan’ichi Shimofusa.
It charmingly depicts the pale purple wild chrysanthemums blooming in an autumn field.
The first verse portrays the delicate figure of the quietly blooming flowers; the second presents a peaceful scene of an insect alighting on a blossom; and the third conveys a warm wish for the flowers to keep blooming even when the cold winter arrives.
With its relaxed tempo and easy-to-sing melody, it’s well suited for singing together at gatherings of older adults.
If you come across wild chrysanthemums on an autumn stroll, think of this piece and savor the changing of the seasons.
Adolescence (with an autumnal/reflective nuance)Hiromi Iwasaki
This work is Iwasaki’s 11th single, released in 1977, and it skillfully captures the shifting emotions and youthful days of one’s late teens.
The lyrics reflect on the days of bygone youth, and many listeners have no doubt been moved by their fragility and beauty.
The world woven by the celebrated duo of Yu Aku and Takashi Miki—through verse and melody—has stirred the hearts of many listeners and continues to be loved across generations.
It’s a recommended song for times when you want to recall those nostalgic youthful days or pause at a turning point in life to look inward.
As you immerse yourself in memories of your younger years, you’ll likely feel the richness of life.
Before winter comespaper balloon
A breakup between two people walking in the rain, searching for the right words.
This is a classic song by Kamifūsen that captures such a bittersweet memory.
Released in November 1977, it was a major hit that sold 450,000 copies and reached No.
4 on the Oricon weekly chart.
Set against the changing seasons from the end of summer to just before winter, it portrays the feelings of a woman who longs to be reunited with a former lover.
The lyrics are especially striking for their vivid autumn imagery, and if you listen to it at dusk in the fall, it might bring back nostalgic memories.
SeptemberMariya Takeuchi
A masterpiece that delicately portrays parting and the subtle shifts of the heart against the backdrop of the transition from summer to autumn.
First included on the 1980 album “LOVE SONGS,” it has appeared on various releases and has been covered by many artists.
Takashi Matsumoto’s lyrics and Tetsuji Hayashi’s melody are a perfect match, and Mariya Takeuchi’s clear, translucent vocals further enhance the song’s appeal.
This moving track captures the ache of a love coming to an end as the seasons change—a song you’ll want to listen to alone on a long autumn night.
If you listen while recalling an old romance, it may let you bask in the warmth of cherished memories.
Please understand.Akira Inaba
Akinobu Inaba’s debut song delicately portrays the ache of unrequited love.
Released in February 1976, it became a massive hit, selling over 600,000 copies.
Sung from the perspective of a heartbroken woman, it captures her deep sorrow and lingering attachment, with the image of her writing a letter to her former lover leaving a strong impression.
Sparked by an award at the Yamaha Popular Song Contest, this work marked the beginning of Inaba’s musical career.
Blending elements of folk and new music, its melody and lyrics resonated with many and continue to be cherished across generations.
On a long autumn night, why not listen at a relaxed pace while reminiscing about days gone by?
In the Season of CobaltKenji Sawada
A classic ballad by Kenji Sawada, known as Julie, that evokes the wistfulness of autumn.
It’s a masterpiece portraying compassion and love for another person.
Kotani Natsu’s delicate lyrics pair perfectly with Sawada’s deep, resonant voice.
As the seasons change, so do people’s hearts—this universal theme is beautifully expressed.
Released as a single in September 1976, it was also included on the album Portrait in Charcoal Gray, released in December of the same year.
It’s a mellow, grown-up love song you’ll want to listen to on a clear autumn day.
Highly recommended not only for fans of Kenji Sawada but also for anyone who wants to revisit the great songs of the Showa era.