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 classic Showa-era masterpieces to Heisei-era hits (11–20)
Please understand.Akira Inaba
Akira Inaba is a musician born in 1954 who made his name in the music world in 1975 with “Wakatte Kudasai.” The song sold over 600,000 copies and captured the hearts of many.
Its appeal lies in lyrics that depict deep sorrow and lingering attachment to a love that has ended, paired with a poignant melody that resonates deeply.
Inaba’s works, delivered with a clear, transparent voice, express a lyrical and distinctive worldview and are loved by a wide audience.
For older listeners who feel nostalgia for the past, this song may evoke memories and emotions from earlier days.
Its memorable melody and moving lyrics make it a piece to savor quietly and reflectively.
BlueMachiko Watanabe
A signature work by Machiko Watanabe, wrapped in a melody and lyrics that gently stay close to the heart.
Released in August 1978, this song delicately depicts deep emotions toward a lost love.
The relationship with a lover has grown cold, and there’s no going back to how it was—this poignant reality is powerfully conveyed through Watanabe’s rich vocal presence and dynamic singing.
Although released the year after her debut, it became a defining piece that symbolizes her musicality and has left a lasting impression on many listeners.
It is a song that gently accompanies those who bear the pain of heartbreak or have experienced parting with someone dear.
Sky RestaurantHi-Fi set
A timeless masterpiece by Hi-Fi Set that portrays the bittersweet emotions of a man and woman who, against the backdrop of a city nightscape, sense an impending farewell even as they reunite.
Its sophisticated melody and Junko Yamamoto’s clear, transparent vocals leave a lasting impression.
Released in November 1975, the song was also used as the image track for a Stanley Electric commercial, etching itself into the hearts of many.
It’s included on the album “Love Collection” and continues to be cherished as one of Hi-Fi Set’s signature works.
It’s perfect for listening alone on a quiet night, or for revisiting memories with someone special.
May it be filled with kindnessJUJU
JUJU’s songs, with their kindness-filled lyrics and clear, transparent vocals, resonate deeply in the heart.
The lyrics, imbued with profound gratitude and prayers for a loved one, remind us of the precious things we tend to lose sight of in everyday life.
Released in March 2009 and featured in an MTV Japan commercial, this track is a piece that fully encapsulates JUJU’s appeal.
The rock ballad sound produced by Seiji Kameda blends perfectly with JUJU’s powerful vocals.
If you listen while thinking of someone important to you, it will resonate even more deeply.
Please take your time and savor it at a relaxed pace.
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Yo Hitoto
Yo Hitoto, known for her clear and translucent singing voice, released her fifth single in February 2004, which became a massive hit, spending over 136 weeks on the Oricon charts.
Written with a prayer for peace, the lyrics have come to be sung often in romantic contexts and at weddings, making it a timeless classic beloved across generations.
It features a relaxed melody and lyrics that convey deep emotion.
It’s a highly recommended song to listen to with a calm heart while reflecting on memories with someone special.
Listening to OliviaAnri
This song portrays the feelings of a woman spending the night listening to Olivia’s music to heal the pain of a broken heart.
Released in November 1978 as Anri’s debut single, its sophisticated melody and delicate lyrics beautifully capture the ache of unrequited love.
It has become a standard, covered by many artists and cherished across generations.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or feels nostalgic for the past.
Why not savor it alone on a quiet night?
Tearjerker songs for women in their 70s: From Shōwa masterpieces to Heisei hits (21–30)
The Toilet GodKana Uemura
Kana Uemura’s signature song “Toire no Kamisama” (God of the Toilet) was released in 2010 and has become a beloved track across generations.
The song recounts her life with her grandmother and the memories they shared.
Warm moments together give way, during her adolescence, to a distance where they hardly even faced each other.
The regret over precious time that can never be reclaimed—and the way she chooses to honor her grandmother’s teachings and express her gratitude—deeply moves the heart.
Many older adults may have grandchildren with similar stories.
Please take a moment to listen to this touching song.