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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Tearjerker songs for women in their 70s: From Shōwa masterpieces to Heisei hits (21–30)
applauseNaomi Chiaki
It’s a highly narrative song, as if you were watching a drama unfold.
With overwhelming expressive power, Naomi Chiaki sings of a protagonist who hides deep sorrow in their heart yet continues to stand on stage.
As you listen, can’t you just see the scenes come to life before your eyes? Released in September 1972, the song won the 14th Japan Record Award and was also featured in a Suntory “BOSS” commercial.
It’s a profound piece that quietly stays close to the hearts of those who have weathered many of life’s ups and downs.
As I am in love…Junko Akimoto
It’s such a wonderfully moving enka/pop ballad that begins with the sound of an accordion, isn’t it? Junko Akimoto’s deep, husky voice conveys the subtleties of life and has a warmth that seems to gently stay close to the listener’s heart.
This masterpiece is filled with pure love that doesn’t compare itself to others, gratitude for the miracle of having met, and the earnest wish that such love might last forever—feelings that will surely resonate with many.
Released in January 2008 as Junko Akimoto’s third single, it won broad support over time and reached No.
1 on the Oricon overall chart about a year after its release.
It’s also included on the album “Second Story.” This song, which enriches life with its color, is perfect for immersing yourself in its world while savoring memories with someone dear or reflecting on your own journey.
How about singing it with heartfelt emotion, just like Junko Akimoto?
Becoming a Thousand WindsMasafumi Akikawa
As a masterpiece of beautiful Japanese ballads, Masafumi Akikawa’s singing voice has left a deep impression on many hearts.
With the powerful, soaring tone characteristic of a tenor, this gem of a song gently conveys the preciousness of life and feelings for loved ones.
Released in May 2006, it became an extraordinary hit for a classical singer, creating a major buzz that included Akikawa serving as the closing performer for the White Team at the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen the following year.
In 2007, it was also selected as the theme song for a Fuji TV documentary drama.
Singing about the feelings one has for someone dear, this work continues to be cherished across generations as a song that resonates in many moments of life.
The Sweet LifeGoro Noguchi
Goro Noguchi is a singer who debuted in 1971 and is one of Japan’s leading artists.
His song “Amai Seikatsu” (Sweet Life), released in 1974, was a hit that portrays the emotions surrounding the breakdown of a cohabiting relationship.
Delicately expressing both the bittersweetness of youth and the harshness of reality, the song resonates across generations.
For older listeners in particular, it may bring back memories of youthful romance.
“Amai Seikatsu” stirs different feelings depending on one’s life experiences and offers a comforting, reflective time.
Please take a moment to listen to it quietly on your own.
atonementTeresa Teng
As a superb love song depicting a heartrending farewell, Teresa Teng’s voice resonates deeply with many listeners.
Vividly expressing the feelings of a woman who fears becoming a burden to the one she loves and chooses to abandon her own love for the sake of the other’s happiness, this work was released in January 1984.
It was also included on the album “Tsugunai” and used as a commercial song for YKK AP’s MADO Shop.
Coupled with Teresa Teng’s clear, crystalline vocals, it evokes profound emotion in the hearts of those who listen.
Love takes many forms, but as you recall the times when you searched for what you could do for someone precious to you, take a moment to heal your heart slowly.
Rainy MidosujiOuyang Feifei
A classic song that poignantly and expressively sings of a bittersweet love against the backdrop of rain-soaked Osaka streets.
The feelings conveyed by Ouyang Fei Fei are imbued with the sorrow of a woman searching for her lover as she walks south along Midosuji.
The vivid depictions of ginkgo-lined avenues and sidewalks are memorable, unfolding scenes anyone can picture in their mind.
Released in September 1971, the song topped the Oricon weekly chart for nine consecutive weeks.
It won the New Artist Award at the 13th Japan Record Awards and quickly became a massive hit.
It’s best enjoyed alone on a quiet night.
As you listen, reflecting on memories with someone dear, your heart will gently warm with a sense of nostalgia.
mamaAyaka Hirahara
A gem-like ballad that sings of a mother’s deep love for her child.
Set to a gentle, resonant melody, it portrays a mother warmly watching over her child’s growth.
Her concern from afar and her heartfelt support for her child’s dreams are conveyed through Ayaka Hirahara’s clear, crystalline voice.
This piece was included on the album “ODYSSEY,” released in February 2004, and was also used as the theme song for TV Asahi’s “Great Mother Story.” In honor of Mother’s Day, why not hum along with older family members? You might also enjoy spending a moment immersed in cherished memories while looking through family photos.
It’s a heartwarming song that naturally stirs feelings of gratitude toward mothers.