New Enka Single Release [July 2024]

matchIwa Misaki

Misaki Iwasa “Match” Music Video [Special Appearance: Tamabaguro Kintaro] (Release date: August 28, 2024)

Misaki Iwasa’s single “Match” is a powerful yet delicate song that expresses feelings ignited from a single strike of a match.

Released in August 2024, it is her 11th single and marks steady progress since her transition from AKB48.

Fully showcasing her signature fusion of enka and pop, the newly written lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto liken a tiny spark growing into a roaring flame to the swell of romantic emotion.

Give it a listen when you want to think of someone special.

Farewell, SakurajimaSaisei

Ryusei / Farewell, Sakurajima

This song sings of a youth farewell that resonates in the heart.

Released in June 2024 to commemorate Ayasei’s 5th anniversary since debut, it stands out with a bright, uplifting tone.

The lyrics depict a young person’s resolve and hope for the future.

The sorrow of leaving one’s hometown and the courage to take a new step forward are powerfully expressed through Ayasei’s strong vocals, leaving a lasting impression.

It’s a perfect track for those starting a new chapter or standing at a crossroads in life.

Every listen seems to give you the courage to face forward.

Hazy MoonMochizuki Ruka

Ruka Mochizuki “Oborozuki (Hazy Moon)” MV

Ruka Mochizuki, known for her richly atmospheric singing voice.

This song of hers evokes the image of a hazy moon.

The lyrics are by Koyomi Asa, the composition by Ryuzo Kimura—eldest son of Ichiro Toba and a singer-songwriter—and the arrangement by Atsushi Toyama.

The lyrics, with their minimal emotional highs and lows, create a romantic yet slightly nostalgic mood.

Released as a single by Nippon Columbia on June 12, 2024, the work is characterized by a style that incorporates traditional Japanese aesthetics and a sense of the seasons.

With its gently subdued atmosphere, it’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night—perfect for those who want to unwind.

Autumn RainAsahina Akiko

Akiko Asahina / Autumn Rain

Akiko Asahina’s new song portrays a love heart drenched in autumn rain.

Based in Kanazawa, she sings a poignant story that resonates deeply.

Released on July 3, 2024, this track is her fourth single since moving to Columbia.

Crafted by the accomplished duo Kohei Sachi and Daizo Saito, the song showcases Asahina’s vocal prowess to the fullest.

The fleeting sorrow of a summer romance and scenes of parting are beautifully depicted alongside autumn landscapes.

Recommended not only for those troubled by love, but also for fans of sophisticated adult kayōkyoku.

The Last DrinkKimura Tetsuji

Tetsuji Kimura “Last Drink” MUSIC VIDEO

This song, which evokes a bittersweet farewell that tugs at the heart, was released by Tetsuji Kimura in February 2024.

Its lyrics capture the aching emotions of two people who decide to part ways as they sit before a mugicha soda.

Kimura’s powerful vocals beautifully convey both the sorrow and the beauty of parting, resonating deeply with listeners.

This track showcases the full extent of Kimura’s talent, recognized with the New Artist Award at the 65th Japan Record Awards.

Written by his older brother, Ryuzo Kimura, the song also reflects a strong bond between the siblings, resulting in a truly wonderful piece.

It’s a must-listen for anyone experiencing the tenderness of love or the pain of farewell.