Karaoke songs you’ll want to sing for men in their 70s: Enka and nostalgic Showa-era pop

Until we meet againKiyohiko Ozaki

Mata Au Himade

Kiyohiko Ozaki produced numerous hit songs with his powerful vocal ability.

In particular, “Mata Au Hi Made,” released in 1971, is cherished by many as a song that resonates deeply in the heart.

For its time, it was notable for depicting the pain of parting, while featuring beautifully refined lyrics.

Its melody is sure to bring back scenes from one’s youth for listeners in their seventies.

When sung at karaoke, it’s a song that naturally brings tears along with cherished memories held in the heart.

It’s a timeless classic, perfect for reflecting on bygone days and enriching moments with friends of the same generation.

Our JourneyMasatoshi Nakamura

Our Journey

Masatoshi Nakamura’s signature work, steeped in nostalgic memories of sunlight filtering through the trees.

Kei Ogura spun a beautiful tale tracing dreams and adventures, layered with a clear, transparent singing voice.

Released in October 1975, this song was used as the theme for a drama of the same name and peaked at No.

2 on the Oricon chart.

It stayed on the charts for 45 weeks and achieved a brilliant 870,000 copies sold.

This piece feels as if the memories of youth are your own story.

Sing it leisurely at karaoke, and you’ll be immersed in a gemlike melody that resonates across time and in lyrics that gently illuminate life’s journey.

A perfect song for calm, companionable moments with friends.

Brother ShipsIchiro Toba

Ichiro Toba “Kyodai-bune (Brothers’ Boat)” (Official Audio)

Sung by Enka heavyweight Ichirō Toba, “Kyōdai-bune” (Brother Ship) was his 1982 debut single and continues to be loved by many.

Composed by Toru Funamura with lyrics by Tetsurō Hoshino, this classic powerfully depicts the bond between brothers who make their living at sea.

Selling 290,000 copies on the Oricon charts, it’s a song packed with memories of youth.

Sing it at karaoke, and the passionate scenes of that era will come rushing back—sure to fire up everyone listening!

SaraiYuzo Kayama

Yuzo Kayama - Sarai (with lyrics)

This is a heartwarming classic that brings back nostalgic memories.

It delicately portrays the feelings of people who leave their hometowns to chase their dreams, and was created by Yuzo Kayama and Shinji Tanimura in November 1992 as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “24-Hour Television.” Its title derives from a Persian word meaning a desert oasis or a staging post, and the soothing melody—like a spiritual homeland—leaves a lasting impression.

The piece was composed based on messages of love sent in by viewers from across the country, and even after more than 30 years, it remains deeply etched in many hearts.

It’s a recommended song for times when you want to quietly bask in memories or connect heart-to-heart with someone special.

If you're happy and you know it, clap your handsKyu Sakamoto

Kyu Sakamoto / If You’re Happy and You Know It (1964–65)

Its charm lies in the way you can enjoy it by expressing a heartwarming classic through full-body movement.

It’s a song that lets you share the joy of connecting with others along with a simple, familiar melody.

Released by Kyu Sakamoto in 1964, it became one of his signature songs alongside “Ue o Muite Arukou” (“Sukiyaki”).

Based on an American folk song, Toshito Kimura wrote the Japanese lyrics with wishes for peace and friendship.

A heartwarming experience in the Philippines inspired the creation of this song, and it is said to have spread through activities at the YMCA.

It has been widely used in films and commercials and has long been cherished in educational settings.

Why not enjoy clapping and body movements together with seniors and let the conversation blossom with fond memories?

Blue MountainsIchiro Fujiyama

[With Large Lyrics] Blue Mountain Range [Recreation]

The celebrated song, which beautifully depicts postwar hope and the breath of a new era, was performed by Ichirō Fujiyama and Mitsue Nara as the theme for a film of the same name released in 1949.

Along with the splendor of nature, it warmly portrays young people forging a bright future, like flowers that bloom after enduring a harsh winter.

For those who lived in the years immediately following the war, it is surely a piece filled with memories.

Beloved across generations, it was chosen as No.

1 in NHK’s 1989 program “Songs of the Showa Era: 200 Unforgettable Songs.” Its beautiful melody, infused with elements of classical music, and its heartwarming lyrics are sure to evoke fond recollections of days gone by.

Gatchaman SongMasato Shimon

Gatchaman Song

A classic song representing Showa-era anime hero series, it has captivated many with its exhilarating, fast-paced melody and grand lyrics.

The song leaves a strong impression with its sense of duty to protect the peace of the Earth and its portrayal of fighting with courage and passion.

Masato Shimon’s powerful vocals further elevate the work’s epic worldview.

Released as a single in October 1972, it was first used as the ending theme for the TV anime.

From episode 23, it was changed to the opening theme, becoming the series’ iconic track.

It has been included in numerous compilation albums and is hailed as a milestone in the world of anime songs.

With its powerful vocals and up-tempo melody, it’s perfect for bringing everyone together at parties and gatherings.