Karaoke songs you’ll want to sing for men in their 70s: Enka and nostalgic Showa-era pop
In this article, we’ll introduce a comprehensive list of karaoke songs perfect for men in their 70s.
Focusing on tracks from the 1960s to the 1980s that they likely listened to in their youth, we’ve gathered many classic enka and Showa-era pop songs.
If you’re in your 70s, you’ll probably know every song here—and each one may bring back a variety of memories.
We hope this article helps you choose songs for your next karaoke session.
Reminisce about the old days and have a great time singing with friends of the same generation!
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[For men in their 70s] Karaoke songs you’ll want to sing: Enka and nostalgic Showa-era pop (61–70)
Waltz of StarlightMasao Sen
Known as a masterpiece that gently sings a heartrending love story, Masao Sen’s work was released in March 1966 and gradually drew significant attention.
The delicate lyrics by Sonoe Shiratori and the beautiful melody crafted by Minoru Endo harmonize wonderfully, making it a gem that resonates with the heart.
Set to a waltz rhythm, it tenderly depicts the protagonist’s complex feelings as they resolve to part with their beloved.
Spreading by word of mouth through cable broadcasting, it achieved an astonishing 2.
5 million sales.
Its gentle, nostalgic melody invites humming along and remains a beloved classic that many people still enjoy singing together today.
It's okayKiyoshi Hikawa
Life brings various hardships and joys, and Kiyoshi Hikawa delivers a warm, gentle song that embraces them all.
Released in 2019, this work expresses the sadness and feelings of love that everyone experiences through his beautiful vocals.
Like the moon setting and the sun rising, its hopeful message—that tomorrow will surely come—resonates in the heart.
Also included on the album “Shin Enka Meikyoku Collection 9,” this piece is perfect for singing along at recreational gatherings.
Its friendly, singable melody and uplifting lyrics are part of its charm.
Hanjirō of the Hakone Eight RiKiyoshi Hikawa
This work fully conveys the appeal of a traditional traveling-swordsman enka.
Its lyrics delicately depict the loneliness, melancholy, and inner conflict of a drifter, and when combined with Kiyoshi Hikawa’s emotionally rich vocals, you can’t help but be drawn in.
The lone-wolf protagonist, sword in hand, is moved by the warmth of the people he meets in post towns and by his feelings for his mother—truly touching.
Released in February 2000, it became the first debut song in history to win the Grand Prize at the 33rd Japan Lyricist Awards.
It was also used in Taisho Pharmaceutical’s Tiovita Drink commercial.
This piece is recommended for older listeners who love enka.
It’s even more enjoyable when everyone claps along while singing.
Traveler of the NorthYujiro Ishihara
Yujiro Ishihara enjoyed unwavering popularity as an actor and singer who symbolized the Showa era.
In particular, “Kita no Tabibito” (Traveler of the North) remains a classic that has stayed deeply in listeners’ hearts even after his death in 1987.
Its lyrics, imbued with the atmosphere of the times, evoke a sense of nostalgia.
Moreover, as Ishihara’s final hit, the song stands as one of his posthumous works.
It’s a piece you’ll want to sing with vigor while reminiscing about the Showa days—and it’s sure to be perfect for energizing a gathering of friends!
A Man's LifeSaburō Kitajima
A heartfelt, powerful song that reexamines the joys and sorrows of life and celebrates living with sincerity.
It carefully weaves together a half-life spent overcoming hardships and trials while valuing duty and truth.
Released by Saburo Kitajima in January 2011, this work conveys the sentiments of his more than 50-year career in show business with a mature vocal performance that deeply resonates with listeners.
While honoring the traditional flavor of enka, the song features contemporary arrangements that give it a profoundly moving quality that sinks into the heart.
It is a gem of a masterpiece to listen to when you stand at a crossroads in life or want to savor your gratitude toward someone important.
A Letter Waiting for SpringTakuro Yoshida
This is a gem of a melody by Takuro Yoshida, warmly depicting a heartfelt exchange through letters that gently convey the feelings and memories of a man and a woman.
The image of two people far apart, drawing close to each other through their letters, carries a nostalgic sentiment that many have felt.
Accompanied by a calm guitar tone, the feelings of a couple trying to connect while awaiting the arrival of spring leave a lingering resonance.
Released in October 1979, it reached No.
52 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was also included on the album “ONLY YOU 〜since coming For Life〜,” and has long been loved by many.
It’s a perfect song for those moments when you want to relax and enjoy music while looking back on memories with someone special.
Traveler,Yuzo Kayama
Born in 1937, Yuzo Kayama has long been a leading figure in Japan’s Showa-era music.
Among his works, “Tabibito yo” is a masterpiece that deeply moves many listeners.
Released in 1994, the song expresses feelings for a distant hometown and the adventurous spirit of youth through Kayama’s powerful vocals.
Its poetic lyrics and melody, especially through the theme of travel, will strongly resonate with men in their seventies.
It’s an ideal song to belt out at karaoke as they recall their younger days.
When people in their seventies, enriched by life experience, sing this song among friends, it will surely create new memories.