Seven Colored Voices and Flowing Times: Hibari Misora Sings Stories of Hope" (1950s-1960s)

Seven Colored Voices and Flowing Times: Hibari Misora Sings Stories of Hope" (1950s-1960s)

Hibari Misora was a symbol of the social changes that took place during the period of confusion and rapid economic growth (1950s-1960s) in postwar Japan. Known as a "national singer" for her outstanding singing ability and personality, her life is deeply connected to the ethos of the times.

### Specific episodes.
**"I want to sing for you" incident (1952)**
Hibari Misora held a support concert in the disaster-stricken area of Kyushu, which was severely damaged by a typhoon. Her voice, accompanied by the words "I want to sing for you," gave hope to people living through difficult times and brought tears to many. This action symbolizes her sense of social responsibility and compassion for people.

**The Birth and Recognition of "Juju" (1960)**
Released in 1960, "Ju" is known as a song that symbolizes the perseverance and recovery of postwar Japan. The song was also associated with Judo, a part of Japanese culture, and received a great response both in Japan and abroad. Her "seven-color voice" played an important role in shaping the spirit of the times through song.

**"Money is a means, not an end" statement (1963)**.
When reports of her financial troubles engulfed her, Hibari Misora resolutely responded to interviews by saying, "Money is a means, not an end. These words epitomize her values and ethics and have been widely passed down as her philosophy of life.

### Hibari Misora's aphorisms
1. **"Songs are food for the soul "**.
She made it her mission to reach out to people's hearts through her songs, and she remained true to this attitude throughout her life.

2. **"Life is a flow. We must go on without stopping. "**
These words in "Like the Flow of a River" express the strength to accept the ups and downs of life and move forward.

3. **"Beauty is in the heart "**
It is her belief that inner beauty is more truly valuable than outward appearance or fame.

### Social background of the time
In postwar Japan, traditional familism and new democratic values intersected, and the question of "how to be successful" was frequently discussed, especially as women increasingly entered the workforce. Hibari Misora was a symbol of a woman whose career was not bound by familial roles, and her life gave courage to many women.

### Conclusion
Hibari Misora's life is a story of facing the times through song, and continuing to support people's hope and courage. Her voice, which has been described as "the voice of seven colors," brought hope to people in distress and lived on with the reconstruction of postwar Japan. Her beliefs and actions shine through the ages and still resonate in our hearts today.