Interesting Japanese songs recommended for men in their 60s

I'm going to Tokyo.Ikuzo Yoshi

Yoshi Ikuzo “I’m Goin’ to Tokyo” [From the video cinema “I’m Goin’ to Tokyo ~Pure Heart Edition~”]

This is one of Ikuzo Yoshi’s signature songs, humorously depicting rural life in the countryside.

Featuring lyrics that skillfully incorporate the Aomori dialect and a distinctive rhythm, it was released in November 1984.

The song also drew attention for its composition, which incorporated innovative Japanese rap for the time.

There’s even an anecdote that, thanks to the lyrics’ promotional effect for LaserDisc, the manufacturer gifted him a player.

It’s a track you can enjoy with nostalgic Showa-era memories while sensing a yearning for the big city.

The Apple Murder CaseHiromi Go, Kiki Kirin

Hiromi Go & Kirin Kiki - The Apple Murder Case

This song captivates with its humor-filled lyrics and upbeat melody.

Despite using a murder case as its theme, it entertains listeners with a comical storyline.

The lyrics, which weave in the story of Adam and Eve, skillfully depict the love and hate between men and women.

Released in June 1978, it became a major talking point, spending four consecutive weeks at No.

1 on The Best Ten.

It was also used as an insert song in the drama “Mu Ichizoku,” winning support from a wide audience.

The duet by Hiromi Go and Kiki Kirin is another highlight.

It’s the perfect track for parties and get-togethers when everyone wants to get energized.

Enjoy the unique lyrics and sing along across generations.

Open! TulipKanpei Hazama

Open, Tulip# Kanpei Hazama: 'Speaking of Showa-era pastimes, it's got to be pachinko!' (Japanese song)

A signature satirical comedy song symbolizing pachinko culture, this is Kanpei Hazama’s hallmark work released in August 1975.

Vividly depicting Showa-era entertainment—like the Warship March playing in pachinko parlors of the time, hand-cranked machines, and the smoky, permissive atmosphere inside—the song reached a peak of No.

25 on the Oricon charts and became a massive hit with over one million copies sold.

In December of the same year, it was also chosen as the theme song for the Nikkatsu film “Wet Lust: Open, Tulip,” enriching the world of director Tatsumi Kumashiro’s work.

Its bright, sprightly melody and Hazama’s distinctive vocals create a humor that’s sure to liven up parties and family gatherings alike.

The Song of KemekoThe Darts

The Darts / Kemeko’s Song (1968)

This work transforms a poem about feelings for a ninth-grade classmate into a charming yet bittersweet pop song.

Sung from the perspective of someone enamored with a girl who excels at chemistry, the song’s unique appeal lies in its twist: the love confession initially succeeds, only to take an unexpected turn.

The intro, which boldly quotes the scat from a Neil Sedaka classic, is also striking.

The Darts’ version, released by Nippon Columbia in February 1968, reached No.

2 on the Oricon chart and sparked a major craze, being featured on Fuji TV’s “Owarai Tag Match” and even adapted into a film.

It’s a perfect pick for those who want to bask in sweet-and-sour memories or liven up a party.

A flawless rock ’n’ rollerAladdin

Aladdin – The Flawless Rock ’n’ Roller

It was one of those one-hit-wonder songs that became popular around the time when slightly bad-boy styles like Yokohama Ginbae were in vogue.

But what’s really impressive is that Aladdin’s Takahara Ani later went on to succeed as a composer too, scoring hits with songs like those for Shūchishin.

The Song of the Red DragonflyWell, you know...

Anone no Ne “Song of the Red Dragonfly” 1973

A witty, humorous piece of musical nonsense that sparkles with clever wordplay.

The March 1973 debut single released by Anone-none features distinctive lyrics that morph from one thing to another like a word-association game.

Woven with self-referential lines that incorporate the group’s own name and sprinkled with metaphorical phrases open to multiple interpretations, the song even drew scrutiny from the Japan Commercial Broadcasters Association at the time.

Its melody is a simple folk-song style, sung breezily over guitar accompaniment.

Said to be an arrangement of a comedy routine from a manzai duo active from the Taisho to Showa eras, it carries a nostalgic flavor as well.

A perfect tune to bring smiles to everyone’s faces at parties or fun family gatherings.

Suddenly, SinbadSouthern All Stars

Suddenly, Sinbad

When the chorus hits, you can’t help but want to shout at the top of your lungs! Released in August 1978 as Southern All Stars’ debut single, this song had a major impact on the Japanese music scene.

With its distinctive lyrics and upbeat rhythm, it portrays young love on a summer seaside.

Although it was reportedly panned at the time for being “nonsensical,” it has since become a beloved karaoke staple for many.

You can really see Keisuke Kuwata’s foresight! The work is packed with various elements, including homages to Kenji Sawada’s ‘Katte ni Shiyagare’ and Pink Lady’s ‘Nagisa no Sindbad.

’ How about singing it together and having fun while reminiscing about your summer memories?