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 Kayōkyoku (71–80)
Tokyo lights, foreverJiro Niikawa
Because enka requires applying kobushi (melismatic bends), it tends to be harder to sing than typical J-pop.
Even so, I imagine many men in their 70s still want to sing enka.
In that case, I recommend Tokyo no Hi yo Itsu Made mo.
Compared to standard enka, this song has a somewhat plain vocal line.
As a result, the instances of kobushi are relatively few for enka, and the ones that do appear are on the easier side.
Although the piece sits a bit higher in range, it doesn’t demand many long sustained notes, so anyone who can produce moderately high tones should be able to sing it without issue.
draft (cold air seeping through gaps)Ryotaro Sugi
A signature song by Ryotaro Sugi, whose lyrics—rich with profound views on life and warm hope—resonate deeply.
Released in October 1976, it set a record by staying on the Oricon singles chart for 147 weeks.
Used as the ending theme for the NHK period drama Toyama no Kin-san, it is a song etched in many hearts.
Singing about overcoming life’s hardships and finding happiness, this piece likely resonates strongly with the life experiences of older listeners.
When you sing it at karaoke, try recalling your own memories and sing with a relaxed heart.
You’re sure to have a wonderful time.
Sōemonchō BluesKatsuji Heiwa and the Dark Horse
“Sōemonchō Blues” by Katsuji Heiwa and Dark Horse is a nostalgic hit released in December 1972.
Based on Kenji Kitahara’s classic original, one of its charms is Heiwa’s singing, which reflects his background as a rōkyoku (narrative singing) performer.
Over time, it has become a karaoke staple, and for male listeners in their 70s, it’s a precious song that revives scenes from their youth.
It’s perfect for reminiscing while feeling the breeze of your hometown.
Be sure to sing it at karaoke and enjoy a wonderful time!
[For Men in Their 70s] Karaoke Songs You’ll Want to Sing: Enka and Nostalgic Showa-Era Kayōkyoku (81–90)
You shouldn’t, but you do.Toshi Itō and Happy & Blue
A classic that sings of the bittersweet love of the Showa era.
Released in June 1979, it is a signature song by Toshii Ito and Happy & Blue.
It became a long-selling hit through 1980 and won the Wired Music Award at the 12th Japan Cable Radio Awards.
On TBS’s “The Best Ten,” it stayed in the Top 10 for 11 consecutive weeks.
The lyrics, which depict the pain of heartbreak and feelings of self-denial, resonated with many listeners.
When singing it at karaoke, let yourself flow with the relaxed tempo and pour your innermost feelings into your performance.
As long as the sun is in the skyAkira Nishikino
A great song recommendation for a man in his 70s is Akira Nishikino’s signature hit “Sora ni Taiyo ga Aru Kagiri” (“As Long as the Sun Is in the Sky”).
It’s the ultimate love song, expressing deep affection for a beloved person and the certainty that this love will last forever.
The lyrics, which sing of eternal love—“As long as the sun is in the sky, we’ll be together”—are incredibly romantic.
Released in February 1971, the song reached No.
3 on the Oricon chart and sold 308,000 copies, becoming a major hit.
It’s an enduring classic loved across generations, making it a perfect choice to sing at karaoke when people of various ages are gathered.
Bus StopKoji Taira
Released in September 1972 and ranking high on the Oricon charts, this song has remained beloved over the years, even being re-recorded in 1982 as a jingle for a Meiji Seika commercial.
It portrays the complex emotions of a woman who must accept parting from the one she loves—gracefully stepping back while secretly wishing not to let go—a sentiment that has moved many listeners.
It’s a profoundly expressive piece that can only be conveyed through the rich life experience of those in their seventies.
Be sure to take your time and sing it with feeling at karaoke.
Northern fishing groundsSaburō Kitajima
Saburo Kitajima’s classic enka song “Kita no Ryojo” (Northern Fishing Grounds) has remained beloved by many since its 1986 release.
Powerfully portraying the life of men of the sea, the song enjoyed immense popularity at the time, winning the Japan Record Award for Best Vocal Performance.
Its melody and lyrics are sure to resonate deeply with men in their seventies.
It also makes an ideal karaoke choice to spark nostalgia and liven up the mood.
Why not sing it with friends of the same generation and relive the days of your youth?