If you’re a woman in your 70s, chances are you listened to a lot of love songs from around the 1970s.
Japanese pop songs released in that era truly include many masterpieces—timeless tracks that still haven’t lost their charm.
In this article, we’ll focus specifically on heartbreak songs and introduce tracks recommended for women in their 70s.
They may help you recall past romantic experiences or bring back the feelings you had back then.
You’ll likely recognize many of these songs, so take this opportunity to listen to them again with fresh ears.
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- Recommended Christmas songs for people in their 70s: A collection of classic winter hits from the Showa era
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Recommended breakup songs for women in their 70s. A collection of classic Showa-era breakup masterpieces (1–10)
Farewell SongMiyuki Nakajima
When it comes to Miyuki Nakajima’s signature songs, many people probably think of this heartbreak ballad.
Released in September 1977, it was a landmark track for Nakajima, becoming her first single to reach number one on the charts.
A million-seller that has been covered by many artists, it remains a timeless classic.
Its lyrics delicately portray the sorrow and loneliness of parting, and Nakajima’s clear, translucent voice resonates deeply with listeners.
It’s a recommended song for anyone who has experienced a painful goodbye or wants to reminisce about a past love.
Una Sera di TokyoThe Peanuts
The Peanuts were a twin idol duo who epitomized the Showa era, and their 1964 release “Una Sera di Tokyo” remains a beloved classic.
Their vocals are imbued with deep emotion and gentleness, warmly enveloping the listener’s heart.
They were frequently tied in with films and television, and their music has been enjoyed across a wide range of settings.
Listening to a song like this alone on a quiet night, or during moments of self-reflection, can help you touch the emotions that lie deep within.
It’s a track that resonates with people of all generations—especially those with rich life experience.
Morning of PartingPedro & Capricious
Pedro & Capricious debuted in 1971, bringing a Latin breeze to Japan’s music scene.
Their song “Wakare no Asa” (Morning of Parting) was released on October 25, 1971, and has since become a classic, covered by many artists.
The piece begins with a goodbye exchanged over cold tea and smiles, then moves into a poignant scene of silently walking a narrow path toward the station.
The song’s appeal lies in its delicate portrayal of the subtle emotions and beauty present in the moment of parting.
Even in the sparse dialogue, expressions that evoke a strong bond and affection stand out.
Recommended listening situations include quiet moments alone when you want to sink into memories, or when you wish to soothe the pain of a broken heart.
Goodbye Comes After the DanceChieko Baisho
Chieko Baisho, born in 1941, is one of Japan’s leading actresses and is also active as a singer.
Her signature song, “Sayonara wa Dance no Ato ni” (“Goodbye Comes After the Dance”), was released in 1965.
The song depicts a couple spending their final moments together through a dance before parting, capturing a scene that preserves a beautiful memory tinged with sorrow.
The protagonist tries to convey their feelings not through words but through the dance, quietly yet powerfully expressing the depth of love and the pain of farewell.
Baisho’s clear voice and the graceful melody resonate with listeners’ hearts and evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era.
Make me cryNaoko Ken
A song that pours the pain of heartbreak into a beautiful melody.
Naoko Ken’s rich, sultry voice fully conveys the bittersweet emotions.
It resonates with the importance of accepting sorrow as it is and freeing your feelings.
Released in November 1983, it was performed at the 34th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen and captured the hearts of many.
It’s a track not only for those who’ve experienced heartbreak, but also for moments when you want to remember someone dear.
youAkiko Kosaka
Born in 1957, Akiko Kosaka has built a distinguished career as a pianist and singer-songwriter.
Her signature song “Anata” was released in 1973 and quickly swept across Japan.
Its sophisticated melody and heartfelt lyrics portray an ideal home life with a cherished partner, continuing to move listeners deeply.
Surely everyone has, at some point, dreamed about a future with someone they love.
Although the past-tense lyrics carry a touch of melancholy, it’s a song I hope you’ll listen to while reminiscing about past feelings of love.
Samba of PartingKiyoshi Hasegawa
It’s a song that expresses the pain and loneliness of parting, released in July 1969.
After it began airing on late-night radio, it became a major hit.
Set to a rhythmic guitar accompaniment, it sings of the sorrow and regret of a broken heart.
The lyrics, which convey deep affection and understanding for the other person, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
For older listeners, it may evoke memories of youthful romances.
It’s best enjoyed alone on a quiet night.
Kiyoshi Hasegawa’s emotionally rich vocals and the wistful melody linger in the heart.