Tear-jerking songs for women in their 70s: from Showa-era classics to Heisei hits
If you’re in your 70s now, chances are you’ve been listening to many timeless Showa-era classics since your youth.
Among those songs, there are likely tracks tied to cherished memories and melodies that capture the unique nostalgia of Showa-era pop, with many pieces that can still move listeners in their 70s today.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of tear-jerking songs especially recommended for women in their 70s.
Alongside Showa masterpieces, we’ve also chosen some Heisei-era releases that have been loved across generations, so please take this opportunity to listen closely and enjoy.
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Tear-jerking songs for women in their 70s: From Showa-era classics to Heisei hits (1–10)
Cheer up!Mariya Takeuchi
A song by Mariya Takeuchi known for its warm melody and lyrics that gently touch the heart.
Released in August 1987 and later used in a SEIKO commercial, this piece gives you the courage to overcome heartbreak and hardship.
Wrapped in Takeuchi’s gentle vocals, it’s a track that helps you look forward.
It has continued to be loved across generations, even being featured as an “energizing song” on Music Station Ultra FES in 2017.
Highly recommended for those who’ve gone through tough times or are seeking music that offers comfort.
loverRyoko Moriyama
Ryoko Moriyama’s song “Koibito” (Lover) was included on her 1971 album and later released as a single.
The lyrics were written by Michio Yamagami, with music composed by Kunihiko Murai.
The song portrays the transience of love and the changing dynamics between lovers, highlighted by Moriyama’s delicate expressiveness.
It conveys not only the beauty of love but also the importance of cherishing the present, even if love may come to an end.
For those who have experienced both the joys and sorrows of romance and thus gained a deeper understanding of life, this piece will offer a special emotional resonance.
Sonnet of the ClownMasashi Sada
Masashi Sada’s “The Clown’s Sonnet” is a song that portrays the feeling of trying to make others smile while carrying sorrow.
Released in 1980 and used as the theme song for the film “Fly, Icarus’s Wings,” it reflects Sada’s deep outlook on life and philosophy.
Though he shares the same burdens, he wishes for the other person to smile.
Perhaps because he himself could not, he wants the other to be saved.
The song lingers in the heart because it gently speaks to the pain and strength behind a smile.
For that reason, those who have walked a long road in life will likely find much to empathize with.
Tear-jerking songs for women in their 70s: From classic Showa-era masterpieces to Heisei-era hits (11–20)
Love RadiantHibari Misora
Ai Sansan, a signature song by Hibari Misora, the songstress who defined the Showa era.
Released on Hibari’s 49th birthday in 1986, it initially saw modest sales but later became a long-running hit and a true gem.
Its lyrics celebrate the joys and sorrows of life and the preciousness of love, intertwined with Hibari’s ever-deepening, mature voice that resonates deeply with listeners.
Evoking nostalgia for the past, hope for the future, and the preciousness of the present moment, this piece is perfect for reflecting on the journey of life.
Why not listen to it with someone special and share a heartwarming moment together?
As time goes byKenji Sawada
“As Time Goes By” was released in 1975 and became a major hit, also serving as an insert song for the TBS television drama “Akuma no Yōna Aitsu” (“That Devilish Guy”).
The song portrays the yearning for love amid the hardships and sorrows of life, expressed through a beautifully melancholic melody and profound lyrics.
For those standing at life’s crossroads or cherishing deep memories, it offers timeless empathy and comfort.
From Sawada’s vocals, one can feel emotions as if at the very bottom of life, yet there is a certain warmth that gently accompanies the listener.
Tears Flowing EndlesslyRimi Natsukawa
Rimi Natsukawa’s “Nada Sou Sou” is a single released in 2001 and a classic that sings of feelings for a beloved person who has passed away.
With lyrics by Ryoko Moriyama and music by BEGIN, the song is distinguished by words that depict tears “falling and spilling over,” an image rooted in Okinawan expression.
Natsukawa’s clear, translucent voice resonates deeply with listeners.
Expressing the loneliness and nostalgia of mourning the departed, the resolve to live on while recalling the person’s smiling face, and the belief that they will meet again someday, this song holds a special meaning for many people.
In particular, those who have experienced much in life may be profoundly moved as they listen and reflect on their own past.
threadMiyuki Nakajima
Since her debut in 1975, Miyuki Nakajima has carved out a unique place in the Japanese music scene.
Her song “Ito” was released in 1992 and has continued to be loved by many.
Centered on the themes of human connections and the wonder of encounters, the song resonates across time.
It remains popular as a wedding song, too.
Its gentle melody and heartwarming message make it a timeless classic that speaks to the heart, especially when listening with a special person in mind.