[Recommended for people in their 70s] Classic nostalgic hits: A collection of youth songs

spring hazeHiromi Iwasaki

spring haze

With a beautiful singing voice reminiscent of Showa-era idols, she performed a classic that resonates in the hearts of older listeners.

Against a backdrop of cherry blossoms in half bloom, the song delicately portrays the bittersweet love of a young couple.

It carefully expresses the feelings of a woman determined to pursue love despite her father’s opposition.

Hiromi Iwasaki’s clear, transparent vocals vividly capture a fleeting spring moment with cherry blossoms in bloom.

Released in February 1979, this work was beloved by many, even making its first appearance in the Top Ten on TBS’s “The Best Ten.” Even today, it remains a much-loved song brimming with the atmosphere of spring’s arrival.

It’s especially recommended to listen to during cherry blossom season together with older adults—letting them reminisce about the past while feeling the coming of spring.

Farewell, my loverMasaaki Sakai

Farewell, my lover

Masakazu Sakai’s “Saraba Koibito” (Farewell, My Love) was released in 1971 and drew attention as his solo debut single.

Arranged by Kyohei Tsutsumi with lyrics by Osamu Kitayama, the song portrays the sorrow and resolve of parting.

The lyrics delicately express the inner conflict and loneliness of choosing to say goodbye, and Sakai’s expressive delivery evokes deep empathy and emotion in listeners.

In particular, the line about not realizing one’s own happiness resonates as a snapshot of many people’s lives, earning profound sympathy.

It’s a masterpiece that captures the subtleties of human relationships, not only for those who spent their youth in the ’60s and ’70s, but for listeners of other generations as well.

With Sakai’s captivating vocals, it’s a song that will linger in your heart after just one listen—highly recommended.

Private railway line areaGoro Noguchi

Shitetsu Ensen

Beginning with the scene of waiting at a ticket gate for a lover, this classic song traces shifting emotions along with the changing seasons, rendered with gentle yet powerful vocals by Goro Noguchi.

Weaving the protagonist’s deeply etched memories together with a beautiful melody, the piece vividly captures the bittersweetness of love that anyone living in the city may have experienced.

Released as a single in January 1975, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart and garnered numerous honors, including the Grand Prix at the 8th Japan Cable Radio Awards.

It’s a song to listen to slowly and quietly, as you reflect on precious moments with someone you love.

Ah, Ueno StationHachirō Izawa

Ah, Ueno Station — Hachiro Izawa

That nostalgic melody echoing from the station that serves as Tokyo’s gateway.

It’s a classic enka song imbued with the feelings of those who left their hometowns to seek new horizons during Japan’s period of rapid economic growth.

Hachirō Izawa’s powerful yet gentle voice warmly envelops the anxieties and hopes of the youth of that era, as well as their love for their families.

Since its release in May 1964, this work has continued to resonate with many and is still cherished today as the departure melody at Ueno Station.

A gem of a song that tenderly gives voice to the complex emotions everyone feels when taking a new step in life.

It’s a track to enjoy while reminiscing and talking with someone dear to you.

The memories are too beautifulJunko Yagami

Memories are too beautiful

Junko Yagami’s major-label debut song, which sings of a love forever out of reach, framed within beautiful memories.

A superb ballad where a sophisticated bossa nova-tinged melody intertwines with her lustrous vocals.

With lyrics that poignantly and beautifully depict a lost love, and a transparent, elegant sound, it can be considered the very essence of classic New Music.

Released in January 1978, it reached No.

25 on the Oricon chart.

It was also included on the album “Omoide wa Utsukushisugite” and selected as the theme song for Nippon Broadcasting’s “Cocky Pop.” This work is a timeless classic that gently accompanies hearts feeling the sorrow of parting with a loved one and the nostalgia for a past that can never return.

Recommended for those moments when you want to surrender to a soothing melody and immerse yourself in memories of days gone by.

Ha-ha-haThe Lind & Lindas

Ha Ha Ha – The Lind & Linders (’68.8.25)

A lively pop tune by The Linds & Linders, released in August 1968, carried by a snappy rhythm and bright melody.

As one of the Kansai region’s representative Group Sounds acts, the song was featured in a popular TV commercial for Nobel Confectionery’s “Amand Kiss,” boosting its recognition even in the Tokyo metropolitan area.

As a signature number from a leading Kansai GS group, the single’s B-side includes the lyrical ballad “Four Days’ Love.” This track was later included in the January 2000 album “The Linds & Linders Meets The Youngers: Complete Singles,” winning over a new generation of fans.

Recommended for those who want to feel the spirit of the Group Sounds heyday or bask in the nostalgia of their youth.

Let's go, Shake!Takeshi Terauchi & The Bunnys

Let's go, Shake!

A happy tune from March 1967 that weaves together a seaside coming-of-age romance and the explosive sound of electric guitar.

A classic that epitomizes the golden era of Group Sounds, it won fervent support in dance halls and go-go clubs, symbols of youth culture.

Known as a signature work by Takeshi Terauchi and the Bunnys, it was included on the album “Let’s Go ‘Fate’” and won the Arrangement Award at the 9th Japan Record Awards.

The energetic sound born from Terauchi’s exceptional guitar technique and the band’s tight cohesion makes this a gem that conveys the essence of surf rock.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to relive the radiance of youth or explore the history of Japanese rock.