[2026] Recommended karaoke songs for women in their 70s: from enka to Showa-era pop

Cotton HandkerchiefHiromi Ohta

Hiromi Ohta “Cotton Handkerchief” Music Video (Animation by Ai Nina)

It’s a masterpiece by Hiromi Ohta that portrays the heartfelt exchange between a man leaving for the big city and a woman who remains in their hometown, told through letters.

His changing self and her wish for unchanging love resonate poignantly over a light, breezy melody.

The way it cherishes pure emotional connection over material wealth is sure to strike a chord with many.

Released as a single in December 1975, the song became widely beloved the following year, leading to Ohta’s first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1976—a milestone track.

Also included on the album “Kokoro ga Kaze o Hiita Hi,” it’s a perfect song for those who deeply relate to its lyrical story or want to revisit the bittersweet days of youth.

If you sing it at karaoke while empathizing with the characters’ hearts, the experience will surely be all the more moving.

My castle townRumiko Koyanagi

Rumiko Koyanagi – My Castle Town (1971)

It’s the debut song of Rumiko Koyanagi, often described as “Wakon Yōsai,” where the refinement of Western music is blended with Japanese sentiment.

She sings tenderly of scenes that bring back memories—an old castle town at dusk, the nostalgic view through lattice doors, and a faint, hidden love stirring in the heart.

Released in April 1971, the song won the Japan Record Award for Best New Artist and found widespread affection in step with the national railway’s “Discover Japan” campaign.

It is also included on the album “My Twelve Songs – A Collection of Japanese Lyric Songs.” It’s the perfect piece for those moments when you want to drift back to days gone by and savor a song at an unhurried pace.

Its gentle melody is sure to be comfortable to sing.

Memories of a Summer DayTeruko Hino

Memories of a Summer Day (sung by Teruko Hino). A song with a pleasant Hawaiian rhythm (1965).

It’s a classic masterfully sung by Teruko Hino, the “Hawaiian Queen.” On a winter beach bathed in moonlight, memories of a passionate summer kiss suddenly return to the heart—you can almost see the scene unfold.

It’s bittersweet yet somehow warm, a song whose afterglow you can bask in.

Her clear voice gently seeps into the listener’s heart.

Released in January 1965, it first appeared as the B-side of a single, but its excellence brought it back as the A-side, and it went on to be loved by more than a million people.

Many will remember Hino’s first appearance at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen with this very song.

It’s also included on albums such as “Memories of a Summer Day.” On a slightly chilly day, when you want to linger by the window with a warm drink and sink into beautiful memories, this song will surely stay close to your heart.

It’s also lovely to hum along with family or friends and let your thoughts drift to days gone by.

lover; mistress; extramarital partnerTeresa Teng

Aijin

Teresa Teng has many songs with adult themes, and among them the classic “Lover” is especially known for its mature, bittersweet character.

As one of her signature works, it’s still frequently sung at karaoke today.

While the song features a richly expressive vocal line, its range is surprisingly narrow, staying mostly in the mid or mid-high register.

The development of the melody is also typical of kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), making it a very singable piece, especially for those of a certain age.

Morning of PartingPedro & Capricious

Morning of Parting

A song by Pedro & Capricious that depicts a farewell with a loved one.

The lyrics, filled with deep sorrow and poignancy, resonate in the heart.

Released in October 1971 as their debut single, it became a classic that has since been covered by many artists.

It’s perfect for reflecting on memories with someone special or for feeling nostalgic at karaoke.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing at ease.

I'm falling in love with you againFuyumi Sakamoto

Fuyumi Sakamoto – I'm Falling in Love with You Again

A gem of a song where nostalgia and freshness intertwine.

Fuyumi Sakamoto’s voice gently embraces the timeless depth of love.

Released in January 2009, this track reached No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart.

It was also featured on NHK Radio 1’s “Radio Shinyabin” as the “Song of Shinyabin,” touching the hearts of many listeners.

Vivid images of nature—morning dew, light, flowers, and rainbows—beautifully express the maturation of romantic feelings.

Why not sing it slowly, keeping memories of your loved one close to your heart? It will surely become a special moment that sinks deeply into your soul.

Life won't give (it) to me / Unyielding lifeEiko Segawa

Eiko Segawa - Inochi Kurenai - Enka Hyakusen

Eiko Segawa’s signature song “Inochi Kurenai,” which conveys the enduring appeal of enka, captured people’s hearts after its 1986 release and sold a total of 1.

7 million copies.

At the core of its impact are lyrics that portray a couple’s journey—happy yet sometimes harsh.

This piece, while evoking nostalgia especially among women in their 70s, still resonates freshly today.

Sing it at karaoke, and you can convey the importance of family bonds not only to your peers but also to younger listeners.