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

Scat at DawnSaori Yuki

Saori Yuki - "Scat at Dawn" (2009)

This is a single released by Saori Yuki in March 1969.

As the title suggests, the first verse is entirely scat with no lyrics.

However, the second verse has normal lyrics.

The lyricist is Michio Yamagami, who won the Lyricist Award at the Japan Record Awards.

Love me to the bone.Takuya Shiro

Love Me To The Bone — Takuya Shiro

It was a single released by Takuya Jo in January 1966 and became a hit, selling 1.

4 million copies.

In the same year, a film directed by Takeichi Saitō based on this song was also released.

It has been covered not only in Japan but also by singers in Taiwan and Hong Kong, and it is widely known across Asia.

Kusokurae-bushiNobuyasu Okabayashi

Kusokurae Bushi (To Hell with It Song) by Nobuyasu Okabayashi

This is a single released independently by Nobuyasu Okabayashi in 1968.

It’s a song that satirizes politicians and those in power, and listening to it feels refreshing.

A major-label version with a different title was also produced, but it ended up being banned from release.

CheersTsuyoshi Nagabuchi

Cheers

This is one of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s signature works, carrying a warm message of blessing to celebrate new beginnings.

Loved by many as an anthem cheering on those stepping onto life’s big stage, it’s a heartwarming piano folk ballad that gently stands by you and gives you the courage to move forward.

Released in September 1980, the song was born from the feeling of congratulating a friend on their wedding, then re-recorded in 1988 and became a major hit.

It also became familiar as the theme song for Kirin Lager Beer commercials in the 1990s.

It’s a powerful song of encouragement that stays close when you or your friends are at life’s milestones or starting anew, and when you need a lift yourself.

In the Sun and the DustCHAGE and ASKA

[MV] In the Sun and Dust / CHAGE and ASKA

A gem of a melody that portrays the dreams and setbacks of youth—and the strength to overcome them.

Released to the world by CHAGE and ASKA in January 1991, this work captures the persistence of those who keep pursuing their dreams, set to a 16-beat rhythm infused with a Western pop sensibility.

The chorus, simple yet striking, has a familiar charm that makes you want to sing along.

A single cut from the album “SEE YA,” it was featured in Nissin Foods’ “Cup Noodles Red Zone” campaign and as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s TIME3, becoming a major hit with cumulative sales exceeding 500,000 copies.

It’s a song that gently pushes you forward when you want to keep running toward unseen dreams—or when you find yourself at a crossroads in life.

lipsGLAY

GLAY / Lips

This is GLAY’s exhilarating rock number that sings of passionate love and desire.

It portrays a bittersweet world where innocence and longing intricately intersect, expressed through powerful melodies and delicate emotions.

Released as a hit single in May 1997, it was selected as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “HEY! HEY! HEY! MUSIC CHAMP” from April to June, and its fiery message and driving sound captured the hearts of rock fans.

It became the band’s first No.

1 on the Oricon charts and led to a later million-seller, making it a legendary track.

Highly recommended for anyone wanting to spend time wrapped in nostalgia and passion.

It’s perfect for dance time, so be sure to add it to your party or long-drive playlist.

WOW WAR TONIGHT ~ Sometimes Start a MovementH Jungle with T

[PV][With Lyrics] H Jungle with t – WOW WAR TONIGHT ~Sometimes, Start a Movement~ [HD][FLV]

It’s an iconic 90s hit born from the unexpected pairing of a comedian and a music producer.

Tetsuya Komuro’s polished dance beats blend with Masatoshi Hamada’s distinctive vocals to create a powerful track that urges people in today’s weary society to take action.

Released in February 1995, it topped the Oricon charts for seven consecutive weeks and achieved an astounding 2.

13 million sales.

As H Jungle with T’s landmark debut single, it made a strong impact on the music scene of the time.

It’s the perfect song for when you’re feeling down or need a boost in motivation, and at karaoke it’s a staple crowd-pleaser that continues to be sung across generations.