[Nostalgic Songs] A collection of tear-jerking Japanese tracks recommended for men in their 70s

Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenEigo Kawashima

Eigo Kawashima - Sake, Tears, Men and Women

A signature work by Eigo Kawashima, this classic portrays a man escaping into alcohol and a woman moved to tears.

Released in June 1976, it became a huge hit and was also used in a commercial for Kizakura Sake Brewery.

Its simple, folk-influenced melody and lyrics that express both the strength and weakness of men resonate deeply.

Kawashima wrote and composed the song at age 19, inspired by his uncle, depicting the sorrows of life and the differing ways men and women face them.

For those in their seventies, it’s a song that evokes youthful memories and the subtleties of life.

Why not listen to it leisurely while thinking of someone dear?

Elegy of the Hot Spring TownToshirō Ōmi

Elegy of the Hot Spring Town

A heart-stirring, wistful classic.

Set in a hot spring town in Izu, this piece portrays the ache of first love.

Sung over a guitar accompaniment, the lyrics beautifully evoke the scene of reminiscing about a love that has passed, in a town veiled in steam under the moonlight.

Released in June 1948, it became a massive hit for the postwar era, selling over 400,000 copies.

The following year, a film of the same title was produced, starring Toshiro Omi himself.

Perfect for listening alone on a quiet night or humming along with someone dear.

A recommended song when you want to soak in nostalgic memories.

Oh, sake!Ikuzo Yoshi

Oh, sake!

A timeless song that entrusts the joys and sorrows of life to sake and speaks to the listener, touching the heart.

Yoshikazu Ikuzō’s distinctive voice and emotionally charged singing stir the soul.

Released in 1988, it solidified his status as an enka singer.

The song was performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and has long been loved by many.

It depicts someone drinking alone, reflecting on past memories and emotional wounds, resonating with those rich in life experience.

I wholeheartedly recommend this track to anyone who has faced a farewell with someone dear or stands at a crossroads in life.

Homeward Journey to the NorthAkira Kobayashi

Homeward Journey to the North

Akira Kobayashi has captivated fans for many years with his overwhelming presence and one-of-a-kind singing voice.

Released in 1961, “Hokkikō” (Return to the North) is known as one of his signature songs and has left a deep imprint on many people’s hearts.

The song is characterized by lyrics that evoke loneliness, poignancy, and a strong sense of hope, stirring the listener’s emotions.

Kobayashi’s powerful vocals intertwine with the emotionally rich melody, giving voice to feelings that are hard to put into words.

For those who carry bitter memories of the past or feelings for what they have lost, this song will likely evoke a deep sense of empathy.

rime iceYukio Hashi

rime ice

Yukio Hashi was an idol-like figure who led Japan’s music scene in the 1960s as one of the “Gosanke” (the Big Three).

In particular, his single Muhyo, released on October 5, 1966, has long been cherished as one of his signature works.

Centered on the theme of rime ice symbolizing winter’s chill, this ballad portrays a bittersweet love.

The lyrics were written by Tetsuo Miyagawa, the music composed by Ichiro Tone, and the arrangement by Yoshitaka Ichinose, combining to create a touching blend of beautiful melody and words.

It’s highly recommended for those who reminisce about distant days and long-lost love.

In Search of Love and DeathKazuko Aoyama

In Search of Love and Death

Kazuko Aoyama is an enka singer from Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, who debuted in 1960 with “Samishii Hana.” Her signature song, “Ai to Shi o Mitsumete,” was released on July 5, 1964.

Based on a true story, the song tells a moving tale with lyrics by Hiroko Oya and music by Keishiro Tsuchida.

Its vocals and lyrics convey the fragility of love and life, deeply touching many listeners.

This profound emotional expression has made the piece a timeless classic cherished across generations.

As you listen to this nostalgic masterpiece, take a moment to remember the important moments in your life.

Stardust TownMichiya Mihashi

Stardust Town

Michiya Mihashi was an enka singer born in Hokkaido on November 10, 1930, who enjoyed such popularity from the 1960s to the 1970s that people said, “Your day begins and ends with Mihashi.” In particular, his 1962 release “Hoshikuzu no Machi” (Stardust Town) is cherished by many fans as one of his signature songs.

The piece portrays the feelings of a lone traveler returning to his hometown, and Mihashi’s distinctive, soaring vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

With its melody and lyrics, the song evokes empathy across eras and generations, leaving a profound emotional impact.