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 (11–20)
I've come a long way, when I think about it.Kaientai
A masterwork by Kaientai that gently portrays life’s milestones—from an autumn scene where cosmos flowers sway, to memories by the Chikugo River, and on to life today.
Its nostalgic melody and heartwarming lyrics resonate deeply with those living away from their hometowns.
Released as a single in September 1978, the song was composed by Yasuyo Yamaki and delivered in Tetsuya Takeda’s gentle voice.
It was chosen as the theme song for a film released the same year and later used in a 1981 television drama starring Ikko Furuya.
This is a piece to be enjoyed while basking in memories, letting time flow unhurriedly.
A Love Story in GinzaYujiro Ishihara · Junko Makimura
Released in 1961, this song portrays the glittering streets of Ginza alongside a poignant love story between a man and a woman.
The duet by Yujiro Ishihara and Junko Makimura beautifully captures the subtle differences in their emotions, with vocals that resonate deeply with listeners.
Featured as an insert song in the film “Kaze-o-Yobu Otoko: From Town to Town” and followed by a film of the same title the next year, it became a major hit.
As an emblem of Ginza, a monument to the song was erected in 1990.
Blending a man’s powerful feelings with a woman’s sultry sentiments, this emotionally rich piece is perfect for moments when you want to talk about love or look back on cherished memories.
Oh, sake!Ikuzo Yoshi
A soul-stirring song that awakens nostalgic memories.
Known as one of Ikuzo Yoshi’s signature works, it was released in 1988.
He also appeared on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, moving the hearts of many.
The lyrics, which express life’s joys and sorrows through the lens of alcohol, resonate deeply when combined with Yoshi’s distinctive vocal timbre.
The words feel as if conversing with sake itself, offering comfort to seniors who have lived through many experiences.
Sing it at karaoke, and you may find yourself reflecting on life with your peers and discovering hope for tomorrow.
Why not join voices together and sing, savoring the flavors of life?
Yokohama TwilightHiroshi Itsuki
A classic song representing the Showa era, known as one of Hiroshi Itsuki’s signature works.
Set against the backdrop of dusk in Yokohama, its touching lyrics compellingly sing of the sorrow of a broken heart.
Released in March 1971, it drew major acclaim, including winning the Singing Award at the 13th Japan Record Awards.
The evocative portrayal of a port town’s atmosphere and its wistful scenery deepens the pain of heartbreak.
Why not sing it during a moment of reminiscing about the past and sharing memories with someone dear?
North TavernTakashi Hosokawa
A heartwarming classic that portrays the romance of a man and woman who meet in a northern country tavern.
Released in March 1982, it is one of Takashi Hosokawa’s signature songs.
It reached No.
5 on the Oricon year-end hit chart and won the Japan Record Award.
Rather than a traditional enka number, this piece has a lively kayōkyoku-style feel and earned support across generations.
It’s an upbeat track guaranteed to get the crowd going when sung at a lively tempo.
It’s also easy for older listeners to enjoy—why not give it a try at karaoke?
Gardenia blossomTetsuya Watari
A masterpiece whose gentle vocals and deep emotion touch the heart.
Released in 1973, it became one of Tetsuya Watari’s signature songs, ranking 7th on the 1974 annual Oricon chart.
It enjoyed wide acclaim, including Watari’s first appearance at the 25th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1974 and its use in the 1976 Toei film “Yakuza no Hakaba: Kuchinashi no Hana,” starring Watari himself.
Singing of lost love and sorrow, the song employs the gardenia as a symbol, vividly portraying cherished memories of the past and the regrets of the present.
How about immersing yourself in nostalgia by singing this memorable tune?
For Men in Their 70s: Karaoke Songs You’ll Want to Sing – Enka and Nostalgic Showa-Era Kayōkyoku (21–30)
City LightsMasaaki Sakai
Masaaki Sakai is a multi-talented entertainer who debuted with The Spiders in 1962 and also thrived as a solo artist in the 1970s.
His 1973 release “Machi no Akari” (City Lights) is a masterpiece where Yu Aku’s delicate lyrics blend seamlessly with Keisuke Hama’s melody, evoking a profound loneliness and the dawn of new love.
Sakai’s expansive, captivating vocals that enchanted listeners back then remain timeless even today.
For those in their 70s, it’s a wonderful song that brings back nostalgic emotions and makes you want to belt it out at karaoke!