RAG Musicrecreation
Lovely senior life
search

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

No matter how old we get, there are times when we feel down or want to push ourselves but just can’t, right? At times like these, many people—across generations—find strength by listening to music.

In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of uplifting songs especially recommended for people in their 70s.

We’ve gathered motivational tracks from the 1960s through the 1980s that can give you energy and courage.

Be sure to listen while reading the lyrics, and regain the power to move forward again!

Recommended Cheer Songs for People in Their 70s: A Collection of Uplifting Tracks (31–40)

Brother ShipsIchiro 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.

SaraiYuzo Kayama

Yuzo Kayama - Sarai (with lyrics)
Sarai Kayama Yūzō

It’s a heartwarming classic that brings back nostalgic memories.

It delicately portrays the feelings of those who leave their hometowns to pursue their dreams, and was created by Yuzo Kayama and Shinji Tanimura in November 1992 as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “24-Hour Television.” Its title derives from a Persian word meaning a desert oasis or a waystation, and the soothing melody—like a homeland for the heart—leaves a lasting impression.

The piece was composed based on messages of love sent in by viewers from all over Japan, and even after more than 30 years, it remains deeply etched in many people’s hearts.

It’s a recommended song for moments when you want to gently reminisce or share a heartfelt connection with someone special.

March of 365 StepsKiyoko Suizenji

Kiyoko Suizenji - “365-Step March” (Official Audio)
March of 365 Steps by Kiyoko Suizenji

Kiyoko Suizenji’s “365-Step March” teaches us the importance of keeping on and moving forward without stopping.

Since its release, the song has given courage and hope to many people.

Its upbeat, cheerful melody and positive lyrics support us in our lives today.

It has been featured in various media, so many older adults will likely be familiar with it.

No matter when you listen to it, this song seems to blow away gloomy feelings and fill you with energy.

A Good Day to Set Out on a JourneyMomoe Yamaguchi

This song, which sings of departure and hope, is a classic that resonates with many older listeners.

Momoe Yamaguchi’s gentle yet powerful voice gives listeners a push forward.

Released in November 1978, it was also used as a campaign song for Japan National Railways.

It is often performed at life’s milestones, such as graduation and weddings, and is loved across generations.

March brings the feeling of spring’s arrival.

In this season of new beginnings, why not listen to this song, bask in nostalgic memories, and feel hope for tomorrow?

ff (fortissimo)HOUND DOG

With its powerfully resonant melody and passionate message, this song has captured the hearts of many as an anthem that encourages listeners to charge toward their dreams and goals.

The lyrics, which express the protagonist’s firm resolve and deep love with great intensity, convey universal feelings anyone can relate to.

Released in August 1985 and featured in a Nissin Cup Noodles commercial, it became one of HOUND DOG’s signature songs.

Since March 2018, it has also been used as the departure melody at JR Sendai Station.

This track is the kind of song that gently gives you a push when you need the courage to believe in yourself and the strength to move forward.

Recommended Cheer-Up Songs for People in Their 70s: A Collection of Uplifting Tracks (41–50)

Ah, Ueno StationHachirō Izawa

Ah, Ueno Station — Hachiro Izawa
Ah, Ueno Station — Hachiro Izawa

That nostalgic melody that echoes from the station, the gateway to Tokyo.

It’s a classic enka song imbued with the feelings of those who left their hometowns during the period of rapid economic growth to seek new horizons.

Hachiro Izawa’s powerful yet gentle voice warmly embraces the anxieties and hopes of the youth of the time, as well as their thoughts of family.

Ever since its release in May 1964, this piece has continued to resonate with many hearts and is still loved today as the departure melody at Ueno Station.

A gem of a song that tenderly sings of the complex emotions anyone feels when taking a new step in life.

It’s a track best listened to while reminiscing and talking with someone dear.

Please give me wingsRed bird

Red Bird “Please Give Me Wings” 1971
Give me wings, red bird.

Akai Tori is a Japanese folk group formed in 1969.

Their song “Tsubasa wo Kudasai” was released in 1971 and has given hope to many people.

The song expresses a strong desire to fly freely with white wings.

Surely, when facing hardship, many of us feel the same way.

For older adults, the pure wish conveyed by this song may give them the courage to take a new step forward.

Through music, I hope people can look back on the past while embracing a positive outlook and enjoy the days ahead.