[Recommended for people in their 70s] Songs that really move you. Beloved classic Japanese hits of the past.

wintering swallowMasako Mori

wintering swallow

This gem of a ballad, which eloquently sings of the aching melancholy of painful love, is a masterpiece that showcases Masako Mori’s outstanding vocal prowess.

Its poetic world is striking: the feelings of a woman who has thrown herself into a forbidden romance are overlaid with the image of a lone swallow that defies the seasons and makes its home out of place.

Mori’s limpid voice intertwines with the heartrending melody, where sorrow and passion cross, creating a deeply moving song.

After its 1983 release, her tearful performance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen drew widespread attention, and the song earned her the Best Vocal Performance award at the 25th Japan Record Awards.

Even among enka songs that give voice to bittersweet longing, this work stands out for its richly expressive phrasing.

It’s the perfect piece for those moments when you want to pour your emotions into the song and sing your heart out, as if setting your soul free.

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.

It's Tokyo, Mother.Chiyoko Shimakura

Chiyoko Shimakura - Mother, It's Tokyo - with lyrics

A song that deeply moved postwar Japan, it centers on the bond between parent and child, depicting memories of a mother and daughter spending time together in Tokyo.

Chiyoko Shimakura’s clear, pure voice blends beautifully with Tōru Funamura’s emotionally rich melody, creating a track that brings a sense of calm to the listener.

Released in April 1957, it became a major hit, selling over 1.

5 million copies.

That same year, it was adapted into a film, with Chiyoko Shimakura herself in the leading role.

Singing it together with older listeners is likely to spark lively reminiscences of the time.

As nostalgic Tokyo landmarks appear one after another, it gently stirs everyone’s memories and promises a heartwarming moment.

a red handkerchiefYujiro Ishihara

Red Handkerchief: Yujiro Ishihara

This is a narrative song that gently portrays the spring scenery of Japan’s northern country.

Against a backdrop of blooming acacia flowers, Yujiro Ishihara’s voice, depicting a bittersweet parting in love, leaves a deep, lingering resonance that touches the heart.

Released by Teichiku Records in October 1962, the work created a major buzz at the time.

In January 1964, it was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name starring Yujiro Ishihara, captivating many audiences alongside the movie.

Why not hum along and relive fond memories together? You’re sure to spend a lovely time as you recall days gone by.

Please enjoy a relaxing moment immersed in music under the gentle spring sunshine.

applauseNaomi Chiaki

Naomi Chiaki / Applause [Official Audio]

Naomi Chiaki’s “Kassai” (Applause) is a classic released in 1972.

The contrast between the glamorous figure of a singer on stage and the sense of loss deep within is striking.

The imagery of the “black border” and the “white wall” vividly depicts the divide between public and private life.

The strength to keep facing forward despite deep sorrow is moving.

It’s a song that showcases Naomi Chiaki’s powerful vocals and rich emotional expression.

It’s also nice to listen while recalling its winning of the Japan Record Award at the time.

It’s great for livening up a karaoke session, but also recommended for quietly listening alone.

Its heartfelt lyrics and melody are sure to be soothing.

Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenEigo Kawashima

Eigo Kawashima – Sake, Tears, Men and Women

Eigo Kawashima’s “Sake, Tears, Men and Women” is a masterpiece that portrays the sorrows of life.

It skillfully expresses the differences between men’s and women’s emotions, featuring lyrics and a melody that resonate deeply.

Released in 1975, it was also used in a commercial song for the sake brand Kizakura.

Covered by many artists, the song has a universal appeal.

It’s a perfect track for older listeners to reminisce about their youth, and it’s also great for karaoke.

Why not listen to it leisurely along with your memories? You’re sure to spend a touching, heartfelt time.

From the northern innHarumi Miyako

Harumi Miyako / From the Northern Inn (from '’93 Summer Harumi Miyako Concert: Neputa Legend')

Harumi Miyako’s “Kita no Yado Kara” is a masterpiece among masterpieces, released in 1975.

Akuyu’s heartfelt lyrics and Asei Kobayashi’s beautiful melody harmonize perfectly.

The loneliness of the northern regions and the bittersweetness of love are conveyed through Miyako’s powerful vocals, moving the listener’s heart.

The lyrics depicting a woman knitting a sweater, her solitude and lingering feelings, resonated with many people.

It’s also a popular karaoke song, so it’s great to sing and enjoy with friends and family.

I also recommend listening to it alone on a quiet night and immersing yourself in nostalgic memories.