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

Waltz of StarlightSen Masao

Waltz of Starlight - Masao 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.

Otomi-sanKasuga Hachirō

Otomi-san, nostalgic songs, Kabuki, popular songs

A quintessential enka classic of the Showa era, this song poignantly depicts the bittersweet fate of a man and a woman.

Based on a Kabuki play, the story artfully portrays vivid Edo-period scenery and the complex emotions of the two lovers.

Incorporating elements of Okinawan music and kachāshī, its lively rhythm paired with Hachiro Kasuga’s clear, soaring vocals creates a pleasing resonance.

Released in August 1954, it sold 400,000 copies in just four months and was later covered by many artists, including Mina Aoe and Harumi Miyako.

Evoking warm nostalgia, it’s a perfect piece for recreation—easy to sing together with cheerful handclaps.

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu

Kyu Sakamoto – Look Up at the Stars in the Night (with lyrics)

Beloved as a song for gazing up at the night sky, this piece resonates as a warm cheer for those facing hardships.

With lyrics by Rokusuke Ei and music by Taku Izumi, it has long been cherished in the enveloping voice of Kyu Sakamoto.

Released as a single in May 1963, it was originally written as the theme song for a musical.

It is also a celebrated masterpiece that won the Japan Record Award for Composition.

Though born as a message of encouragement for young people studying at night school, it is a song that transcends generations to bring hope and courage.

It’s perfect for everyone to sing together during recreation time at the facility.

Marilyn Monroe No ReturnNozaka Akiyuki

Marilyn Monroe No Return

With a voice tinged with heartbreak and resignation that evokes the end of the world, this classic has been deeply etched into many listeners’ hearts.

Its weighty, socially reflective poetry blends beautifully with a chanson-like, elegant melody line, crafting a singular soundscape.

Interweaving Buddhist imagery and the changing seasons, Nosaka Akiyuki’s vocal performance is breathtaking as it quietly speaks of life’s impermanence and the cycle of rebirth.

Released by Nippon Columbia in 1971 and included on the album “Nosaka Uta Taizen I: Singing Sakurai Jun,” the song was also featured in the 1973 film “Contemporary Gangsters: The Three Blood-Cherry Brothers.” It’s a recommended piece for those seeking to touch a deeper truth of life, or to quietly reflect on their hearts on a still night.

Forever with youKayama Yūzō

Yuzo Kayama - Kimi to Itsumademo (with lyrics)

A beautiful love song that gently seeps into our hearts, set to a light ballad that carries eternal love and hope for the future.

Featured as the theme song for the films “Young Guy with an Electric Guitar” and “Young Guy in the Alps,” this piece celebrates everlasting love against the backdrop of a sunset, tenderly expressing the sweetness and ache of young romance.

Released in 1965, it became a massive hit, selling over three million copies and receiving a Special Award at the 8th Japan Record Awards.

Yuzo Kayama’s gentle vocals and the beautiful string arrangements are soothing to the soul.

For seniors, it’s a song that will resonate with memories of their youth.

Whether you listen to it quietly on your own or sing it together with family and friends at karaoke, it’s a piece that brings a sense of calm.

a red handkerchiefIshihara Yūjirō

Red Handkerchief: Yujiro Ishihara

Set against the backdrop of a northern spring, this song tells the story of a bittersweet farewell in love.

Carried by a gentle, lyrical melody, Yujiro Ishihara’s rich vocals vividly portray the lingering feelings of heartbreak.

Released by Teichiku Records in October 1962, the track is also included on the album “Yujiro Ishihara Original 6.” In January 1964, it was used as the theme song for a film of the same name starring Ishihara, captivating the hearts of many alongside the movie.

Even today, it remains a beloved classic that everyone can hum along to and is very popular at karaoke.

With its heartfelt lyrics and approachable melody, it’s the perfect song for singing together and having fun.

my dadkaguya hime

Kaguyahime – My Father (LIVE) Official Audio

A heartwarming folk song that warmly portrays a father within the family.

Set to a gentle acoustic guitar melody, it depicts a simple, down-to-earth father figure, as if capturing snapshots of everyday life.

Included on the album “Sankaidate no Uta,” released in March 1974, the song was written and composed by Kousetsu Minami, making full use of Kaguyahime’s folk sensibilities.

A live performance filled with a strong sense of unity with the audience is also featured on the live album “Kaguyahime LIVE,” released in September of the same year.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to with your family, packed with gratitude that’s hard to express in everyday words.

In adult day-care settings, it may spark lively reminiscences through song.