Uplifting songs recommended for people in their 60s: classic and popular Japanese hits

blue eyesJackey Yoshikawa and the Blue Comets

blue eyes

A masterpiece where a wistful melody merges with a stirring band sound.

First released during the dawn of the Group Sounds era—its English version in March 1966 and Japanese version in July—the song portrays a bittersweet romance with a woman encountered at the end of a journey through northern landscapes.

Following the English version’s sales of over 100,000 copies, the Japanese version became a massive hit, surpassing 500,000.

It earned Jackie Yoshikawa and the Blue Comets a spot in the 17th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen and helped ignite the GS boom.

With its polished performance and harmonies, this sonic world is a perfect pick for anyone wishing to bask in memories of first love and 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.

The lights of Sakhalin do not go outThe Jenova

The Genova / The Light of Sakhalin Never Goes Out (1968)

A crowning achievement of 1960s Group Sounds from Crown Records.

With a bittersweet melody and lyrics in the style of a Russian folk song that weave in images of the northern provinces, this soul-stirring track moves every listener.

It builds a one-of-a-kind world that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

The Genova’s debut single from February 1968 is known as a unique outlier within the 1960s Group Sounds scene, and it recorded an astonishing sales figure of over 100,000 copies.

Seamlessly blending electric guitar and band-driven sound with elements of kayōkyoku, this work lingers as a gem of a ballad that stands beside the aching hearts of those who’ve lost their hometown or their love.

It’s a classic to be heard on a quiet night by anyone who has known heartbreak or parting, or who carries deep feelings within.

No-No BoyThe Spiders

The Spiders — No No Boy (1966)

This song fuses sophisticated chord progressions influenced by the British beat with a soul-stirring rock ’n’ roll sound.

The musical style crafted by Hiroshi Kamayatsu opened up new possibilities for Japan’s rock scene at the time.

Released as a single by Philips Records in February 1966, it was also featured in the Nikkatsu film Youth A-Go-Go that same year.

With catchy, love-themed phrases repeated throughout, it leaves a deep impression on listeners.

Boasting an innovative melody line and a stylish vibe, this track is recommended for those who want to relive the bittersweet memories of their youth, as well as music fans eager to savor a classic that represents the golden era of Japanese rock.

Let's go anywhereYamazaki Yui

Let's go anywhere

The song was originally created for a Bridgestone commercial, and the original singer was Yui Yamazaki, who was also active as an actor and voice actor.

Many artists, including Dark Ducks and Masayoshi Yamazaki, have covered it.

Although it was a corporate commercial song, it has also been featured in music textbooks.

Our TomorrowElephant Kashimashi

Elephant Kashimashi – “Our Tomorrow”

This is a masterpiece imbued with a powerful, emotionally resonant rock sound and a vision of walking toward the future alongside friends.

The friendship and bonds portrayed in the music video, along with the courage to step into a new tomorrow, gently support anyone seeking strength for their heart.

Released in November 2007 by Elephant Kashimashi, led by Hiroji Miyamoto, the song was used in a commercial for House Foods’ Ukon no Chikara and came to be loved by a wide audience.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when standing at a crossroads in life, when renewing your resolve, or when you need hope for the future.

With its robust melody, it fills you with the courage to move forward—an uplifting song that warms the heart.

SOMEDAYMotoharu Sano

Motoharu Sano “SOMEDAY” MUSIC VIDEO

A gem of a song that portrays the brilliance of youth and its end with a powerful sound and lyrics that resonate deeply.

One of Motoharu Sano’s signature works, it weaves together the emotions that accompany young love, dreams, and growth with a beautiful melody.

Its universal themes of graduating from innocence and growing into adulthood have left a lasting mark on many hearts.

Released in June 1981 and later included on the album of the same name the following year, the song was also featured in 1989 as the CM track for JR Tokai’s “Fight! Express” campaign.

Celebrating the importance of holding on to dreams and ideals, it continues to be cherished as an anthem that stands by those at life’s crossroads, giving them the courage to take a new step forward.