Recommended Cheer-Up Songs for People in Their 70s: A Collection of Uplifting Tunes

March “Patriotism”Ushimatsu Saitō

March “Patriotism” / Patriotic March

This march, with a powerful wind band melody ringing out, was composed by Ushimatsu Saito in December 1937 for the Navy Band.

Its dignified, weighty atmosphere and the solemn lyrical melody of the middle section are beautifully balanced, and its high level of craftsmanship led to its selection as an official piece jointly adopted by the Navy and Army.

An SP record was released at the time by Polydor, featuring a performance by the Imperial Japanese Navy Band under the baton of Seigo Naitō.

From the wartime period through the postwar years, it was widely performed at ceremonies and events throughout the Asia-Pacific region and became familiar to local audiences in places like Indonesia and Palau.

The trio section incorporates Tokichi Setoguchi’s nationally beloved song “Aikoku Koshinkyoku” (Patriotic March), the composer also known for “Gunkan March.” This is a must-hear for those who wish to savor the rich sonorities and solemn melodic beauty of wind band music, as well as for anyone interested in the history of Japanese military music.

SubaruShinji Tanimura

Shinji Tanimura - Subaru (with lyrics)

This is a ballad that evokes the vast expanse of the universe, distinguished by Shinji Tanimura’s deep, resonant voice.

Its hopeful lyrics and melody touch the heart at life’s important milestones.

Released in 1980, the piece has been featured in many music programs and events, and while rooted in folk, it incorporates classical elements, making it a polished masterpiece.

Shinji Tanimura was also active as an educator, becoming a full-time professor at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music in 2004, and he deepened connections with many people through music.

It’s a recommended song for music recreation with older adults, offering a calm listening experience with its relaxed tempo.

It would make for a lovely time to hum along together while sharing memories.

Like a flower that blooms in the fieldDa Capo

Like a Wildflower – Da Capo #LikeAWildflower #DaCapo #TheNakedGeneral’sWanderingTales

A timeless song that exudes a simple, gentle warmth brings with it the refreshing breath of spring that makes you want to hum along.

In words anyone can understand, it conveys the importance of living naturally, like flowers blooming in the fields.

Da Capo released this heart-touching melody in July 1983.

Beloved as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “The Naked General’s Wandering,” its lyrics, which give listeners the courage to face life’s hardships, resonated with many.

Since 1992, the song has also been included in elementary school music textbooks and continues to be sung across generations.

Please enjoy this piece—one that evokes fond memories and the calm arrival of spring—together with older adults.

Hanjirō of the Hakone Eight RiKiyoshi Hikawa

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Hanzirō of Hakone Hachiri [Official]

Hikawa Kiyoshi’s debut single, “Hakonē Hachiri no Hanjirō,” is known for its distinctive catchphrase.

In addition to his powerful vocals, his handsome looks were widely embraced by younger women who had previously been less interested in enka, propelling him to instant national stardom.

The song’s signature phrase has become a call-and-response with fans, reportedly creating huge excitement at concerts.

As a result, the track is widely recognized and enjoys great popularity at karaoke.

It’s sure to be a big hit for recreational activities at senior facilities as well.

Tokyo Boogie-WoogieShizuko Kasagi

Tokyo Boogie-Woogie

Shizuko Kasagi is an entertainer who brightened postwar Japan and is celebrated as the “Queen of Boogie.” Her signature song, Tokyo Boogie Woogie, was created in collaboration with Ryoichi Hattori in 1947.

Incorporating boogie-woogie rhythms, the piece brought a fresh breeze to the music scene of the time.

Its lyrics portray the power of music and dance to connect people and bring joy and vitality.

Released shortly after the war, the song became a beacon of hope for many.

It is recommended for older adults who want to feel the happiness that music brings and add energy to their daily lives.

The lively, upbeat melody is sure to set listeners’ hearts dancing.

Life is full of ups and downs.Chiyoko Shimakura

Life is full of ups and downs — Chiyoko Shimakura

This is a gem of a melody that gently sings of the joys and hardships of life.

The strength to live through inner conflict and adversity is warmly embraced by the rich, lustrous vocals.

Once you hear it, it resonates in your heart—a work filled with hope.

Released by Chiyoko Shimakura in 1987, this song, following her 30 consecutive appearances on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, became a major springboard for her participation in the 1988 broadcast.

Brimming with memories, the piece also features lyrics that resonate with the life experiences of older adults.

Humming along together at events such as Respect-for-the-Aged gatherings can create a heartwarming shared moment.

Stars on EarthMiyuki Nakajima

Stars on the Ground / Miyuki Nakajima [Official]

It’s a song filled with warm attention and deep respect for people who don’t usually stand in the spotlight.

Miyuki Nakajima portrays those who strive to live their lives in places where no one looks, using beautiful metaphors.

Like stars shining in everyday life, it stands as an anthem to the unsung heroes who keep working hard in many different places.

Released in July 2000, the song was chosen as the theme for the NHK documentary series “Project X: Challengers,” and together with the program’s moving content, it deeply resonated with many viewers.

It set a record by staying on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for 174 consecutive weeks.

It’s a song that gives you a strong push forward in those moments when daily life overwhelms you and you feel like stopping.