Recommended driving songs for people in their 70s. A roundup of BGM you’ll want to listen to in the car.
When you’re driving alone it’s one thing, but when you head out on a drive with a few people, a lot of us like to put on some music, right?
At times like that, many people find it surprisingly hard to choose the right BGM.
That’s especially true if your passengers aren’t from the same generation and there’s a bigger age gap.
So in this article, I’ll introduce some recommended songs for a drive that people in their 70s will enjoy.
I’ve picked tracks with a sense of speed as well as mellow, relaxing tunes—songs that are popular among people in their 70s.
Use this as a reference when choosing your BGM.
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Recommended driving songs for people in their 70s: A roundup of BGM to listen to in the car (11–20)
MoneyShogo Hamada
The song included on the album “DOWN BY THE MAINSTREET,” released in October 1984, portrays desire for money and the transformation of human nature.
It explores how wealth changes the heart and what it means in one’s life.
While it sings of a longing for a luxurious lifestyle, it also touches on the loneliness that can accompany it.
With lyrics penned from Shogo Hamada’s unique perspective, the piece resonates with many listeners and has been loved for years.
How about listening to it while reflecting deeply on life?
DOWN TOWNEPO
The timeless classic “DOWN TOWN,” beloved across generations.
As EPO’s debut work, its distinctive musicality feels strikingly modern, as if it were ahead of its time.
With lyrics by Ginji Ito that consciously embrace Japanese pop sensibilities, it deftly captures both the glitz of the city at night and the buoyant feelings of its people.
Carried by EPO’s soulful vocals, the story of “DOWN TOWN” vividly rekindles the youth of those now in their seventies, while also giving a flutter of excitement to those of us living today.
Why not enjoy a special night drive, different from the everyday, while listening to this song through your car speakers? Be sure to experience the dreamy sonic world EPO weaves.
Riverside HotelYosui Inoue
Among the many classics by Yosui Inoue, who has led the music scene since the 1970s, this is a supreme track that continues to be loved across generations.
Originally released in 1982 as his 18th single, it didn’t attract much attention at first.
But when it was re-released in 1988 and chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “New York Love Story,” it quickly gained widespread recognition.
The song’s distinctive lyrical world—depicting an extraordinary realm just a step removed from everyday life—pairs beautifully with its melody, captivating many listeners with a tale of a young couple’s sweet escapade.
It’s the kind of song you’ll want to play slowly, just the two of you, to close out a drive date—a true hidden gem for grown-ups.
Why not spend a special moment enjoying it together with your partner or someone dear to you?
Simple LoveJunko Ohashi and Minoya Central Station
A heartwarming love song by Junko Ohashi and Minoya Central Station.
The lyrics, themed around simple yet profound expressions of love, convey a caring sentiment toward the other person and the pure affection within the couple’s relationship.
It’s a masterpiece where Junko Ohashi’s extraordinary vocal ability, uncommon among Japanese singers, blends beautifully with the musicality she created together with the band members.
Released as a single on April 5, 1977, it was also included on that year’s album RAINBOW.
It became an important track for the group.
It’s a recommended song for a peaceful drive, especially when going out with someone in their seventies, or any time you want to spend calm, gentle moments.
A Midsummer IncidentMiki Hirayama
A song that made waves in the 1970s music scene with its captivating husky vocals and catchy melody.
Its poignant lyrics and memorable phrases evoke deep emotion.
One of Miki Hirayama’s signature tracks, it has been covered by many artists and remains a timeless classic beloved across generations.
Released as a single in 1971, it reached No.
5 on the Oricon chart.
It appears on numerous releases, including the albums “GOLDEN☆BEST: Miki Hirayama Sings Kyohei Tsutsumi” and “THE HIT MAKER: The World of Kyohei Tsutsumi.” An ideal song to play while driving—especially for couples cruising along the seaside at night.
A gem of a love song that links to fleeting yet beautiful midsummer memories.
Moonlight SurferSeri Ishikawa
Set against a seaside scene wrapped in the scent of the tide, the song conveys a longing for lost love alongside a fleeting sense of release amid beautiful nature.
Released in 1979 as Seri Ishikawa’s ninth single, it has remained popular across generations in karaoke.
Its transparent vocals and summer-tinged melody are sure to resonate with listeners.
On a drive, humming it together with someone in their seventies will likely spark conversation—it’s a song that invites fond memories of days gone by.
Recommended driving songs for people in their 70s: A roundup of BGM to listen to in the car (21–30)
SEPTEMBEREarth, Wind & Fire
Released in 1978, this track is perfect when you’re in the mood to move and have fun.
Buoyant guitar lines and a comfortable groove naturally get your hands clapping and feet tapping.
Its blend of soul, funk, jazz, and R&B is quintessential Earth, Wind & Fire.
Featured in films like Night at the Museum and Intimacy, it’s a beloved classic that has captivated many.
It’s no surprise it earned Gold certification from the RIAA—its timeless appeal is undeniable.
Highly recommended not only when you want to get your body moving, but also when you need a lift for your spirits.
Why not enjoy a wonderful musical moment by moving to the rhythm?